Finland has been ranked the world’s freest country in 2026 with a perfect score of 100, according to Freedom House’s latest Freedom in the World report. The annual report assessed political rights and civil liberties across 195 countries and territories, revealing that global freedom declined for the 20th consecutive year.
The report showed that more than 50 countries experienced declines in freedom scores, including the United States, which recorded one of its sharpest annual drops and its lowest score on record. Freedom House cited growing concerns over democratic institutions, political participation, freedom of expression, and civil liberties in several nations.
European and Pacific countries dominated the top rankings, with Finland, New Zealand, Norway, and Sweden leading the list. The report attributed their high scores to strong electoral systems, independent judiciaries, press freedom, and robust legal protections for citizens.
In contrast, South Sudan received the lowest score of zero, reflecting severe restrictions on political rights and civil liberties. Freedom House said conflicts, political instability, media restrictions, and pressure on democratic institutions continue to fuel the global decline in freedom.
