Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right, enshrined in international agreements such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which asserts that “everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression.” However, the reality of how this right is upheld or violated varies significantly from country to country, particularly in Africa. While some nations allow their citizens to express themselves openly and without fear, others impose strict limitations, often with harsh consequences.
Global and Regional Context
Globally, the state of freedom of expression is concerning. The past year alone saw a significant decline, with 451 million people across 10 countries experiencing a deterioration in their ability to express themselves freely. In contrast, only 335 million people across five countries saw improvements. Notably, Burkina Faso witnessed the most significant drop in freedom of expression, with a decline of 24 points, followed by Mongolia (-10 points) and Senegal (-9 points).
In Sub-Saharan Africa, the situation remains particularly stagnant. Over the past decade, while other regions have seen a significant decline in freedom of expression, Sub-Saharan Africa has shown little change. The Global Expression Report 2024 highlights that in the last year alone, 216 million people across four countries in the region experienced a deterioration in their freedom of expression, with no country in the region showing any improvement. Burkina Faso again recorded the largest decline, not just regionally but globally.
Over the past five years, 329 million people across 14 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa have seen a decline in their freedom of expression, while only 119 million people in four countries have witnessed improvements. This troubling trend underscores the ongoing challenges faced by many African nations in upholding this fundamental right.
Top 10 African Countries with the Lowest Freedom of Expression in 2024
Based on the Global Expression Report 2024, here are the top 10 African countries with the lowest levels of freedom of expression:
1. Eritrea (Global Rank: 160th)
Eritrea consistently ranks as one of the most repressive countries in the world when it comes to freedom of expression. The government tightly controls all forms of media, and independent journalism is virtually non-existent. The few journalists who do operate within the country face constant surveillance, intimidation, and imprisonment. Citizens have little to no freedom to express dissenting opinions, with the government maintaining a strict grip on public discourse.
2. Equatorial Guinea (Global Rank: 147th)
Equatorial Guinea is another country where freedom of expression is severely restricted. The state controls all major media outlets, and journalists who dare to criticize the government or report on sensitive issues face harassment, arrest, and even torture. The internet is also heavily monitored, and citizens are wary of expressing their views online due to fear of retribution. The climate of fear and censorship has stifled any meaningful public debate or opposition.
3. South Sudan (Global Rank: 145th)
In South Sudan, freedom of expression is heavily curtailed, with the government cracking down on any form of dissent. Journalists and activists are frequently targeted, with many being detained without trial, tortured, or even killed. The ongoing conflict in the country has only exacerbated the situation, as the government seeks to silence any voices that challenge its authority. The lack of media freedom and the suppression of independent voices have left the population with few avenues to express their grievances.
4. Egypt (Global Rank: 142nd)
Egypt’s government has been criticized for its harsh crackdown on freedom of expression. The state controls the majority of the media, and independent journalists face significant risks, including arrest, imprisonment, and harassment. Social media platforms are closely monitored, and individuals who express dissenting opinions online can face severe consequences. The government has also enacted a series of restrictive laws that further limit the ability of citizens to speak out freely.
5. Eswatini (Global Rank: 141st)
In Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, freedom of expression is heavily restricted by the absolute monarchy. The government controls the media, and there is little tolerance for criticism of the king or his policies. Journalists and activists who challenge the status quo often face harassment, arrest, and intimidation. The lack of press freedom and the suppression of dissenting voices have created a climate of fear and self-censorship among the population.
6. Sudan (Global Rank: 134th)
Sudan has a long history of repressing freedom of expression, and despite recent political changes, the situation remains dire. The government continues to target journalists, activists, and opposition figures, with many being detained or prosecuted for expressing dissent. The media is tightly controlled, and those who attempt to report on sensitive issues or criticize the government face significant risks. The ongoing conflict and political instability have further exacerbated the situation, making it difficult for citizens to freely express their views.
7. Burundi (Global Rank: 133rd)
Burundi’s government has taken a hardline approach to suppressing freedom of expression, particularly in the wake of political unrest. Independent media outlets have been shut down, and journalists who criticize the government are often harassed, detained, or forced into exile. The government also monitors online activity, and citizens who express dissenting opinions on social media can face severe consequences. The climate of fear and repression has stifled any meaningful public discourse in the country.
8. Rwanda (Global Rank: 130th)
Rwanda is known for its tight control over freedom of expression, with the government maintaining strict oversight of the media and public discourse. Journalists and activists who criticize the government or report on sensitive issues face harassment, arrest, and imprisonment. The government also closely monitors online activity, and citizens who express dissenting opinions can face severe consequences. The lack of press freedom and the suppression of independent voices have created a climate of self-censorship among the population.
9. Algeria (Global Rank: 129th)
In Algeria, freedom of expression is limited, with the government exerting significant control over the media and public discourse. Journalists and activists who criticize the government or report on sensitive issues face harassment, arrest, and imprisonment. The government has also enacted a series of restrictive laws that further limit the ability of citizens to speak out freely. The climate of fear and repression has stifled any meaningful public debate or opposition in the country.
10. Republic of the Congo (Global Rank: 127th)
The Republic of the Congo rounds out the list of African countries with the lowest levels of freedom of expression. The government exerts tight control over the media, and independent journalism is heavily restricted. Journalists and activists who challenge the government or report on sensitive issues face harassment, arrest, and imprisonment. The lack of press freedom and the suppression of dissenting voices have created a climate of fear and self-censorship among the population.
Conclusion
Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic societies, allowing citizens to voice their opinions, hold their governments accountable, and contribute to public debate. However, in many African countries, this fundamental right is severely restricted, with governments employing various tactics to suppress dissenting voices. The top 10 African countries with the lowest levels of freedom of expression in 2024 highlight the ongoing challenges faced by journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens in their quest to exercise this right.
As the global community continues to advocate for human rights and democratic values, it is essential to shine a light on the countries where freedom of expression is under threat. By raising awareness and supporting efforts to protect this fundamental right, there is hope that the situation can improve, and that citizens across Africa can one day enjoy the freedom to express themselves openly and without fear.
