Introduction
The most democratic countries in the world are those that rank highest on democracy indexes. The Economist’s democracy index is one of the most commonly used measures of democracy, and it scores countries on a scale of 0 to 10 based on factors such as electoral process, political participation, functioning of government, political culture, and civil liberties – the higher a country’s score on the democracy index, the more democratic it is considered to be.
Looking at the top of the democracy index, we can see that Norway ranks number one with a score of 9.8, followed by New Zealand with 9.4 and Finland and Sweden both with 9.3. These countries are often considered models of democracy, with free and fair elections, high levels of political participation, and strong protections for civil liberties. However, even these top-ranking countries are not perfect democracies and face challenges such as corruption and inequality.
In terms of regional trends, the top-ranking countries tend to be concentrated in Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, with many Western European countries ranking highly. Meanwhile, countries in the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Asia tend to have lower scores on the democracy index. The factors contributing to these regional trends are complex and varied, but can include factors such as historical legacies, economic development, and the influence of external actors.
Looking at some of the lower-ranking countries, we can see that some, such as Venezuela and Belarus, are considered to be authoritarian regimes with little to no democracy. Other countries, such as India and the United States, are democratic countries, but with important issues such as corruption, discrimination, and limitations on civil liberties hindering their democratic progress.
It’s important to remember that democracy is not a static concept, and countries can move up or down the democracy index over time. So, overall, while the democracy index provides a useful tool for comparing levels of democracy around the world, democracy is a complex and multi-faceted concept that can be difficult to measure.
# | Country | Democracy Index | System of Government | Liberal Democracy Index |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Norway | 9.8 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.86 |
2 | New Zealand | 9.4 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.84 |
3 | Finland | 9.3 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.83 |
4 | Sweden | 9.3 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.88 |
5 | Iceland | 9.2 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.75 |
6 | Denmark | 9.1 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.88 |
7 | Ireland | 9 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.82 |
8 | Taiwan | 9 | Semi-presidential | 0.7 |
9 | Australia | 8.9 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.81 |
10 | Canada | 8.9 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.76 |
11 | Netherlands | 8.9 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.81 |
12 | Switzerland | 8.9 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.84 |
13 | Uruguay | 8.8 | Presidential | 0.76 |
14 | Germany | 8.7 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.82 |
15 | Luxembourg | 8.7 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.8 |
16 | Japan | 8.2 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.74 |
17 | South Korea | 8.2 | Presidential | 0.79 |
18 | Austria | 8.1 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.75 |
19 | Costa Rica | 8.1 | Presidential | 0.85 |
20 | Mauritius | 8.1 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.46 |
21 | United Kingdom | 8.1 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.78 |
22 | France | 8 | Semi-presidential | 0.8 |
23 | Israel | 8 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.65 |
24 | Chile | 7.9 | Presidential | 0.77 |
25 | Spain | 7.9 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.78 |
26 | United States of America | 7.9 | Presidential | 0.74 |
27 | Estonia | 7.8 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.84 |
28 | Portugal | 7.8 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.81 |
29 | Botswana | 7.7 | Presidential | 0.49 |
30 | Czech Republic | 7.7 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.71 |
31 | Italy | 7.7 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.77 |
32 | Greece | 7.6 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.67 |
33 | Malta | 7.6 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.64 |
34 | Belgium | 7.5 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.82 |
35 | Slovenia | 7.5 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.6 |
36 | Cyprus | 7.4 | Presidential | 0.69 |
37 | Latvia | 7.3 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.73 |
38 | Lithuania | 7.2 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.74 |
39 | Malaysia | 7.2 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.29 |
40 | Trinidad and Tobago | 7.2 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.66 |
41 | East Timor | 7.1 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.49 |
42 | Jamaica | 7.1 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.69 |
43 | Slovakia | 7 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.77 |
44 | South Africa | 7 | Semi-presidential | 0.59 |
45 | Brazil | 6.9 | Presidential | 0.51 |
46 | India | 6.9 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.36 |
47 | Panama | 6.9 | Presidential | 0.56 |
48 | Argentina | 6.8 | Presidential | 0.66 |
49 | Poland | 6.8 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.41 |
50 | Suriname | 6.8 | Presidential | 0.65 |
51 | Indonesia | 6.7 | Presidential | 0.43 |
52 | Bulgaria | 6.6 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.55 |
53 | Philippines | 6.6 | Presidential | 0.28 |
54 | Colombia | 6.5 | Presidential | 0.47 |
55 | Croatia | 6.5 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.63 |
56 | Dominican Republic | 6.5 | Presidential | 0.47 |
57 | Ghana | 6.5 | Presidential | 0.57 |
58 | Hungary | 6.5 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.36 |
59 | Namibia | 6.5 | Presidential | 0.51 |
60 | Mongolia | 6.4 | Semi-presidential | 0.49 |
61 | Romania | 6.4 | Semi-presidential | 0.64 |
62 | Serbia | 6.4 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.24 |
63 | Lesotho | 6.3 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.5 |
64 | Guyana | 6.2 | Semi-presidential | 0.37 |
65 | Singapore | 6.2 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.33 |
66 | Albania | 6.1 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.4 |
67 | Moldova | 6.1 | Semi-presidential | 0.62 |
68 | Papua New Guinea | 6.1 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.34 |
69 | Peru | 6.1 | Presidential | 0.65 |
70 | Sri Lanka | 6.1 | Semi-presidential | 0.38 |
71 | Bangladesh | 6 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.12 |
72 | Montenegro | 6 | Semi-presidential | 0.39 |
73 | Republic of Macedonia | 6 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.4 |
74 | Thailand | 6 | Military Junta | 0.17 |
75 | Tunisia | 6 | Presidential | 0.46 |
76 | Paraguay | 5.9 | Presidential | 0.43 |
77 | Bhutan | 5.7 | Absolute Monarchies | 0.48 |
78 | Ecuador | 5.7 | Presidential | 0.47 |
79 | El Salvador | 5.7 | Presidential | 0.22 |
80 | Madagascar | 5.7 | Presidential | 0.24 |
81 | Malawi | 5.7 | Presidential | 0.53 |
82 | Zambia | 5.7 | Presidential | 0.3 |
83 | Fiji | 5.6 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.27 |
84 | Hong Kong | 5.6 | 0.2 | |
85 | Mexico | 5.6 | Presidential | 0.39 |
86 | Ukraine | 5.6 | Semi-presidential | 0.32 |
87 | Armenia | 5.5 | Presidential | 0.56 |
88 | Senegal | 5.5 | Presidential | 0.55 |
89 | Liberia | 5.4 | Presidential | 0.46 |
90 | Georgia | 5.1 | Presidential | 0.49 |
91 | Honduras | 5.1 | Presidential | 0.24 |
92 | Kenya | 5.1 | Presidential | 0.4 |
93 | Tanzania | 5.1 | Presidential | 0.31 |
94 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | 5 | Semi-presidential | 0.35 |
95 | Morocco | 5 | Semi-constitutional Monarchies | 0.24 |
96 | Sierra Leone | 5 | Presidential | 0.43 |
97 | Bolivia | 4.6 | Presidential | 0.37 |
98 | Guatemala | 4.6 | Presidential | 0.32 |
99 | Uganda | 4.5 | Presidential | 0.21 |
100 | Nepal | 4.4 | Semi-constitutional Monarchies | 0.46 |
101 | The Gambia | 4.4 | Presidential | 0.41 |
102 | Pakistan | 4.3 | Semi-presidential | 0.23 |
103 | Turkey | 4.3 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.12 |
104 | Benin | 4.2 | Presidential | 0.28 |
105 | Ivory Coast | 4.2 | Presidential | 0.24 |
106 | Nigeria | 4.1 | Presidential | 0.34 |
107 | Mauritania | 4 | Military Junta | 0.17 |
108 | Kuwait | 3.9 | Semi-constitutional Monarchies | 0.27 |
109 | Palestine | 3.9 | 0.14 | |
110 | Algeria | 3.8 | Semi-presidential | 0.15 |
111 | Burkina Faso | 3.8 | Presidential | 0.48 |
112 | Lebanon | 3.8 | Semi-presidential | 0.28 |
113 | Qatar | 3.7 | Absolute Monarchies | 0.09 |
114 | Kyrgyzstan | 3.6 | Presidential | 0.27 |
115 | Haiti | 3.5 | Presidential | 0.21 |
116 | Iraq | 3.5 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.22 |
117 | Jordan | 3.5 | Semi-constitutional Monarchies | 0.25 |
118 | Mali | 3.5 | Presidential | 0.18 |
119 | Mozambique | 3.5 | Presidential | 0.24 |
120 | Angola | 3.4 | Semi-presidential | 0.19 |
121 | Gabon | 3.4 | Presidential | 0.21 |
122 | Ethiopia | 3.3 | Parliamentary Republic | 0.15 |
123 | Comoros | 3.2 | Presidential | 0.13 |
124 | Niger | 3.2 | Presidential | 0.4 |
125 | Russia | 3.2 | Semi-presidential | 0.1 |
126 | Kazakhstan | 3.1 | Presidential | 0.13 |
127 | Rwanda | 3.1 | Presidential | 0.12 |
128 | Eswatini | 3.1 | 0.11 | |
129 | Oman | 3 | Absolute Monarchies | 0.14 |
130 | Cambodia | 2.9 | Constitutional Monarchies | 0.07 |
131 | Egypt | 2.9 | Semi-presidential | 0.12 |
132 | United Arab Emirates | 2.9 | Absolute Monarchies | 0.08 |
133 | Vietnam | 2.9 | One-party | 0.13 |
134 | Zimbabwe | 2.9 | Presidential | 0.19 |
135 | Republic of the Congo | 2.8 | Presidential | 0.11 |
136 | Togo | 2.8 | Presidential | 0.2 |
137 | Azerbaijan | 2.7 | Presidential | 0.07 |
138 | Djibouti | 2.7 | Presidential | 0.12 |
139 | Guinea-Bissau | 2.7 | Presidential | 0.36 |
140 | Nicaragua | 2.7 | Presidential | 0.06 |
141 | Cameroon | 2.6 | Presidential | 0.13 |
142 | Cuba | 2.6 | One-party | 0.08 |
143 | Bahrain | 2.5 | Semi-constitutional Monarchies | 0.05 |
144 | Sudan | 2.5 | Presidential | 0.08 |
145 | Belarus | 2.4 | Presidential | 0.04 |
146 | Guinea | 2.3 | Presidential | 0.11 |
147 | People's Republic of China | 2.2 | One-party | 0.04 |
148 | Burundi | 2.1 | Presidential | 0.08 |
149 | Saudi Arabia | 2.1 | Absolute Monarchies | 0.04 |
150 | Uzbekistan | 2.1 | Presidential | 0.09 |
151 | Venezuela | 2.1 | Presidential | 0.07 |
152 | Eritrea | 2 | One-party | 0.01 |
153 | Yemen | 2 | Semi-presidential | 0.03 |
154 | Equatorial Guinea | 1.9 | Presidential | 0.05 |
155 | Iran | 1.9 | Theocracies | 0.12 |
156 | Libya | 1.9 | Military Junta | 0.15 |
157 | Tajikistan | 1.9 | Presidential | 0.05 |
158 | Laos | 1.8 | One-party | 0.1 |
159 | Chad | 1.7 | Presidential | 0.07 |
160 | Turkmenistan | 1.7 | Presidential | 0.04 |
161 | Central African Republic | 1.4 | Presidential | 0.16 |
162 | Democratic Republic of the Congo | 1.4 | Presidential | 0.16 |
163 | Syria | 1.4 | One-party | 0.04 |
164 | North Korea | 1.1 | One-party | 0.02 |
165 | Myanmar | 1 | Military Junta | 0.08 |
166 | Afghanistan | 0.3 | 0.02 |
Most Democratic Countries
The ten most democratic countries are Norway, New Zealand, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, Ireland, Taiwan, Australia, and Canada. Norway is the most democratic country in the world, with a democracy index score of 9.8. It has a well-established system of democratic governance, with a high level of political participation and functioning of government. New Zealand is ranked second most democratic country, with a score of 9.4, and has a strong record of civil liberties and political participation. Finland and Sweden are ranked third and fourth most democratic countries, with a score of 9.3. Iceland is the fifth most democratic country, with a democracy index at 9.2, while Denmark comes in as the sixth most democratic country, with its democracy index score of 9.1. Next in line are Ireland and Taiwan as the seventh and eighth most democratic scores, with democracy index scores of 9.0. And finally, the ninth and tenth most democratic countries in the world are Australia and Canada, both with a democracy index score of 8.9.
The ten most democratic countries are :
1. Norway – 9.8
2. New Zealand – 9.4
3. Finland – 9.3
4. Sweden – 9.3
5. Iceland – 9.2
6. Denmark – 9.1
7. Ireland – 9.0
8. Taiwan – 9.0
9. Australia – 8.9
10. Canada – 8.9
Democracy Index by Country
Afghanistan
Democracy Index
0.3
Ranked in the World
#166
Ranked in the World
#172
Albania
Democracy Index
6.1
Ranked in the World
#66
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#80
Albania is the sixty-sixth most democratic country worldwide based on Albania’s Democracy Index of 6.1 out of 10. According to Democracy Index, Albania falls into the “flawed democracy” category and indicates that the country faces challenges in areas such as political participation, functioning of government, and civil liberties. In spite of this, Albania has also seen some positive developments regarding electoral processes and political pluralism.
Algeria
Democracy Index
3.8
Ranked in the World
#110
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#131
Angola
Democracy Index
3.4
Ranked in the World
#120
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#122
Argentina
Democracy Index
6.8
Ranked in the World
#48
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#37
Argentina is the forty-eighth most democratic country worldwide based on Argentina’s Democracy Index of 6.8 out of 10. The country falls into the “flawed democracy” category which reflects Argentina’s challenges in areas such as political culture, civil liberties, and functioning of government. It should also be noted that the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on Argentina's democracy, leading to increased restrictions on civil liberties and political rights. However, Argentina has seen positive developments including strong independent media and active civil society groups.
Armenia
Democracy Index
5.5
Ranked in the World
#87
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#53
Armenia is the eighty-seventh most democratic country worldwide based on Armenia’s Democracy Index of 5.5 out of 10. Armenia is a democratic country and its political system is based on a semi-presidential representative democratic republic. The President of Armenia is the head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of government. The country has a multi-party system and the citizens elect their representatives to the National Assembly in free and fair elections. The country has made significant progress in strengthening its democratic institutions since its independence in 1991. However, there have been some concerns about the country's democratic practices in recent years which include challenges to the independence of the judiciary and restrictions on civil liberties.
Australia
Democracy Index
8.9
Ranked in the World
#9
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#14
Austria
Democracy Index
8.1
Ranked in the World
#18
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#26
Azerbaijan
Democracy Index
2.7
Ranked in the World
#137
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#158
Azerbaijan is the one hundred thirty-seventh most democratic country worldwide based on Azerbaijan’s Democracy Index of 2.7 out of 10. The country falls into the "authoritarian regime" category. The Democracy Index of Azerbaijan reflects significant challenges in various areas such as political participation, the functioning of government, and civil liberties. It highlights restrictions on political opposition, media, and civil society, and the lack of free and fair elections in the country. Lastly, there are also some concerns about corruption and human rights abuses.
Bahrain
Democracy Index
2.5
Ranked in the World
#143
System of Government
Semi-constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#164
Bangladesh
Democracy Index
6
Ranked in the World
#71
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#142
Belarus
Democracy Index
2.4
Ranked in the World
#145
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#170
Belarus is the one hundred forty-fifth most democratic country worldwide based on Belarus’s Democracy Index of 2.4 out of 10. Belarus’s Democracy Index classifies the country as an “authoritarian regime” that lacks political pluralism, suppresses political opposition, and restricts freedom of expression and the press. Moreover, some have voiced concerns about human rights abuses including the crackdown on protesters and opposition leaders in the wake of the 2020 presidential elections. Overall, Belarus’s Democracy Index reflects the country’s challenges in political participation, the functioning of government, and civil liberties.
Belgium
Democracy Index
7.5
Ranked in the World
#34
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#11
Benin
Democracy Index
4.2
Ranked in the World
#104
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#103
Bhutan
Democracy Index
5.7
Ranked in the World
#77
System of Government
Absolute Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#64
Bolivia
Democracy Index
4.6
Ranked in the World
#97
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#87
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Democracy Index
5
Ranked in the World
#94
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#92
Botswana
Democracy Index
7.7
Ranked in the World
#29
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#63
Brazil
Democracy Index
6.9
Ranked in the World
#45
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#58
Bulgaria
Democracy Index
6.6
Ranked in the World
#52
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#55
Burkina Faso
Democracy Index
3.8
Ranked in the World
#111
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#65
Burundi
Democracy Index
2.1
Ranked in the World
#148
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#156
Cambodia
Democracy Index
2.9
Ranked in the World
#130
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#160
Cameroon
Democracy Index
2.6
Ranked in the World
#141
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#135
Canada
Democracy Index
8.9
Ranked in the World
#10
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#24
Central African Republic
Democracy Index
1.4
Ranked in the World
#161
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#127
Chad
Democracy Index
1.7
Ranked in the World
#159
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#159
Chile
Democracy Index
7.9
Ranked in the World
#24
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#21
Colombia
Democracy Index
6.5
Ranked in the World
#54
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#68
Comoros
Democracy Index
3.2
Ranked in the World
#123
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#136
Costa Rica
Democracy Index
8.1
Ranked in the World
#19
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#4
Croatia
Democracy Index
6.5
Ranked in the World
#55
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#45
Cuba
Democracy Index
2.6
Ranked in the World
#142
System of Government
One-party
Ranked in the World
#155
Cyprus
Democracy Index
7.4
Ranked in the World
#36
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#34
Cyprus is the thirty-sixth most democratic country in the world based on Cyprus’s Democracy Index of 7.4 out of 10. Cyprus is a democratic country with a political system based on a presidential representative democratic republic. The President of Cyprus is the head of state and the government is headed by the Council of Ministers, appointed by the President. The country has a multi-party system with the citizens electing their representatives to the House of Representatives in free and fair elections. Cyprus has made significant progress in strengthening its democratic institutions since its independence in 1960. Today, the country has free and independent media and a strong civil society, although there are some challenges related to the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary.
Czech Republic
Democracy Index
7.7
Ranked in the World
#30
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#31
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Democracy Index
1.4
Ranked in the World
#162
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#128
Denmark
Democracy Index
9.1
Ranked in the World
#6
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#2
Djibouti
Democracy Index
2.7
Ranked in the World
#138
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#138
Dominican Republic
Democracy Index
6.5
Ranked in the World
#56
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#67
East Timor
Democracy Index
7.1
Ranked in the World
#41
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#62
Ecuador
Democracy Index
5.7
Ranked in the World
#78
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#69
Egypt
Democracy Index
2.9
Ranked in the World
#131
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#140
El Salvador
Democracy Index
5.7
Ranked in the World
#79
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#116
Equatorial Guinea
Democracy Index
1.9
Ranked in the World
#154
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#163
Eritrea
Democracy Index
2
Ranked in the World
#152
System of Government
One-party
Ranked in the World
#174
Estonia
Democracy Index
7.8
Ranked in the World
#27
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#5
Estonia is the twenty-seventh most democratic country worldwide based on Estonia’s Democracy Index of 7.8 out of 10. Estonia is a parliamentary representative democratic republic with the President as the head of state and the Prime Minister as the head of government. The country has a multi-party system with the citizens electing their representatives to the Parliament (Riigikogu) in free and fair elections. Estonia has been consistently ranked as one of the world's most digitally advanced democracies with e-governance, online voting, and electronic ID cards. The country also has a vibrant civil society and independent media. Overall, Estonia is considered a stable and well-functioning democracy.
Eswatini
Democracy Index
3.1
Ranked in the World
#126
Ranked in the World
#145
Ethiopia
Democracy Index
3.3
Ranked in the World
#122
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#129
Fiji
Democracy Index
5.6
Ranked in the World
#83
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#105
Finland
Democracy Index
9.3
Ranked in the World
#3
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#8
France
Democracy Index
8
Ranked in the World
#22
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#16
Gabon
Democracy Index
3.4
Ranked in the World
#121
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#119
Georgia
Democracy Index
5.1
Ranked in the World
#90
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#61
Germany
Democracy Index
8.7
Ranked in the World
#14
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#9
Ghana
Democracy Index
6.5
Ranked in the World
#57
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#51
Greece
Democracy Index
7.6
Ranked in the World
#32
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#36
Guatemala
Democracy Index
4.6
Ranked in the World
#98
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#96
Guinea
Democracy Index
2.3
Ranked in the World
#146
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#144
Guinea-Bissau
Democracy Index
2.7
Ranked in the World
#139
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#90
Guyana
Democracy Index
6.2
Ranked in the World
#64
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#88
Haiti
Democracy Index
3.5
Ranked in the World
#115
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#118
Honduras
Democracy Index
5.1
Ranked in the World
#91
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#113
Hong Kong
Democracy Index
5.6
Ranked in the World
#84
Ranked in the World
#120
Hungary
Democracy Index
6.5
Ranked in the World
#58
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#89
Iceland
Democracy Index
9.2
Ranked in the World
#5
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#25
India
Democracy Index
6.9
Ranked in the World
#46
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#91
India is the forty-sixth most democratic country globally based on India’s Democracy Index of 6.9 out of 10. India’s Democracy Index falls into the “flawed democracy” category meaning that the country faces some challenges in areas that include the functioning of government, political participation, and civil liberties. More particularly, the country has put restrictions on freedom of expression and the media and some issues have been raised concerning the treatment of religious minorities and the LGBT+ community. India's democratic institutions have also been strained by tensions between the central government and some state governments, as well as political polarization and violence. However, India still has a vibrant civil society and an independent judiciary which are maintaining the country's democratic credentials.
Indonesia
Democracy Index
6.7
Ranked in the World
#51
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#75
Iran
Democracy Index
1.9
Ranked in the World
#155
System of Government
Theocracies
Ranked in the World
#139
Iraq
Democracy Index
3.5
Ranked in the World
#116
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#115
Ireland
Democracy Index
9
Ranked in the World
#7
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#10
Israel
Democracy Index
8
Ranked in the World
#23
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#41
Italy
Democracy Index
7.7
Ranked in the World
#31
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#20
Ivory Coast
Democracy Index
4.2
Ranked in the World
#105
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#109
Jamaica
Democracy Index
7.1
Ranked in the World
#42
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#33
Japan
Democracy Index
8.2
Ranked in the World
#16
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#27
Jordan
Democracy Index
3.5
Ranked in the World
#117
System of Government
Semi-constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#107
Kazakhstan
Democracy Index
3.1
Ranked in the World
#127
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#134
Kenya
Democracy Index
5.1
Ranked in the World
#92
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#81
Kuwait
Democracy Index
3.9
Ranked in the World
#108
System of Government
Semi-constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#104
Kyrgyzstan
Democracy Index
3.6
Ranked in the World
#114
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#106
Laos
Democracy Index
1.8
Ranked in the World
#158
System of Government
One-party
Ranked in the World
#148
Latvia
Democracy Index
7.3
Ranked in the World
#37
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#30
Lebanon
Democracy Index
3.8
Ranked in the World
#112
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#101
Lesotho
Democracy Index
6.3
Ranked in the World
#63
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#59
Liberia
Democracy Index
5.4
Ranked in the World
#89
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#72
Libya
Democracy Index
1.9
Ranked in the World
#156
System of Government
Military Junta
Ranked in the World
#130
Lithuania
Democracy Index
7.2
Ranked in the World
#38
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#28
Luxembourg
Democracy Index
8.7
Ranked in the World
#15
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#15
Madagascar
Democracy Index
5.7
Ranked in the World
#80
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#110
Malawi
Democracy Index
5.7
Ranked in the World
#81
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#56
Malaysia
Democracy Index
7.2
Ranked in the World
#39
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#100
Mali
Democracy Index
3.5
Ranked in the World
#118
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#124
Malta
Democracy Index
7.6
Ranked in the World
#33
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#44
Mauritania
Democracy Index
4
Ranked in the World
#107
System of Government
Military Junta
Ranked in the World
#126
Mauritius
Democracy Index
8.1
Ranked in the World
#20
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#70
Mexico
Democracy Index
5.6
Ranked in the World
#85
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#85
Moldova
Democracy Index
6.1
Ranked in the World
#67
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#46
Mongolia
Democracy Index
6.4
Ranked in the World
#60
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#60
Montenegro
Democracy Index
6
Ranked in the World
#72
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#84
Morocco
Democracy Index
5
Ranked in the World
#95
System of Government
Semi-constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#111
Mozambique
Democracy Index
3.5
Ranked in the World
#119
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#112
Myanmar
Democracy Index
1
Ranked in the World
#165
System of Government
Military Junta
Ranked in the World
#152
Namibia
Democracy Index
6.5
Ranked in the World
#59
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#57
Nepal
Democracy Index
4.4
Ranked in the World
#100
System of Government
Semi-constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#71
Netherlands
Democracy Index
8.9
Ranked in the World
#11
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#12
New Zealand
Democracy Index
9.4
Ranked in the World
#2
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#6
Nicaragua
Democracy Index
2.7
Ranked in the World
#140
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#162
Niger
Democracy Index
3.2
Ranked in the World
#124
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#82
Nigeria
Democracy Index
4.1
Ranked in the World
#106
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#93
Nigeria is the one hundred and sixth most democratic country worldwide based on India’s Democracy Index of 4.1 out of 10. Nigeria’s Democracy Index classifies the country as a “hybrid regime” meaning that Nigeria’s political system has autocratic and democratic features. More specifically, the country faces challenges like corruption, election-related violence, a weak rule of law, the abuse of state power, and the influence of the military in politics. There are also issues related to the treatment of minority groups and the media, with some restrictions on freedom of expression and the press.
North Korea
Democracy Index
1.1
Ranked in the World
#164
System of Government
One-party
Ranked in the World
#173
Norway
Democracy Index
9.8
Ranked in the World
#1
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#3
Oman
Democracy Index
3
Ranked in the World
#129
System of Government
Absolute Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#133
Pakistan
Democracy Index
4.3
Ranked in the World
#102
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#114
Palestine
Democracy Index
3.9
Ranked in the World
#109
Ranked in the World
#132
Panama
Democracy Index
6.9
Ranked in the World
#47
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#52
Papua New Guinea
Democracy Index
6.1
Ranked in the World
#68
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#94
Paraguay
Democracy Index
5.9
Ranked in the World
#76
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#76
People's Republic of China
Democracy Index
2.2
Ranked in the World
#147
System of Government
One-party
Ranked in the World
#166
China is the one hundred forty-seventh most democratic country in the world based on China’s Democracy Index of 2.2 out of 10. China’s Democracy Index classifies the country as an “authoritarian regime”. China has a one-party system, with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) holding a monopoly on political power and the citizens do not have the right to vote for their representatives in free and fair elections. The country also has tightly controlled media with restrictions on freedom of expression, the press, and the internet. Moreover, concerns about human rights abuses have been raised, including the treatment of ethnic minorities like the Uighur population, and political dissidents. These factors explain why China is considered an authoritarian regime rather than a democratic country.
Peru
Democracy Index
6.1
Ranked in the World
#69
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#40
Philippines
Democracy Index
6.6
Ranked in the World
#53
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#102
Poland
Democracy Index
6.8
Ranked in the World
#49
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#78
Portugal
Democracy Index
7.8
Ranked in the World
#28
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#13
Qatar
Democracy Index
3.7
Ranked in the World
#113
System of Government
Absolute Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#151
Republic of Macedonia
Democracy Index
6
Ranked in the World
#73
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#83
Republic of the Congo
Democracy Index
2.8
Ranked in the World
#135
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#146
Romania
Democracy Index
6.4
Ranked in the World
#61
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#43
Russia
Democracy Index
3.2
Ranked in the World
#125
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#147
Rwanda
Democracy Index
3.1
Ranked in the World
#128
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#141
Saudi Arabia
Democracy Index
2.1
Ranked in the World
#149
System of Government
Absolute Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#167
Senegal
Democracy Index
5.5
Ranked in the World
#88
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#54
Serbia
Democracy Index
6.4
Ranked in the World
#62
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#108
Sierra Leone
Democracy Index
5
Ranked in the World
#96
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#77
Singapore
Democracy Index
6.2
Ranked in the World
#65
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#95
Singapore is the sixty-fifth most democratic country globally based on Singapore’s Democracy Index of 6.2 out of 10. According to Singapore’s Democracy Index, the country is a “flawed democracy” meaning that country faces some challenges in political participation, civil liberties, and the functioning of government. While Singapore has multi-party elections, the ruling People's Action Party (PAP) has held power continuously since 1959 and there are some concerns about the fairness of the electoral process. The government also has broad powers to restrict freedom of expression and assembly with limits on political opposition and the media. In spite of this, Singapore has a strong and stable economy with high levels of education and a well-functioning government which have helped it become a leader in the region. Overall, Singapore is considered a flawed democracy due to these factors, although it remains one of the most prosperous and politically stable countries in the world.
Slovakia
Democracy Index
7
Ranked in the World
#43
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#22
Slovenia
Democracy Index
7.5
Ranked in the World
#35
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#47
South Africa
Democracy Index
7
Ranked in the World
#44
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#48
South Korea
Democracy Index
8.2
Ranked in the World
#17
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#17
Spain
Democracy Index
7.9
Ranked in the World
#25
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#18
Sri Lanka
Democracy Index
6.1
Ranked in the World
#70
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#86
Sudan
Democracy Index
2.5
Ranked in the World
#144
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#153
Suriname
Democracy Index
6.8
Ranked in the World
#50
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#42
Sweden
Democracy Index
9.3
Ranked in the World
#4
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#1
Switzerland
Democracy Index
8.9
Ranked in the World
#12
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#7
Syria
Democracy Index
1.4
Ranked in the World
#163
System of Government
One-party
Ranked in the World
#169
Taiwan
Democracy Index
9
Ranked in the World
#8
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#32
Tajikistan
Democracy Index
1.9
Ranked in the World
#157
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#165
Tajikistan is the one hundred fifty-seventh most democratic country in the world based on Tajikistan’s Democracy Index of 1.9 out of 10. The Democracy Index classifies Tajikistan as an "authoritarian regime" meaning that Tajikistan’s political system rejects political plurality and reduces the rule of law, the separation of powers, and democratic voting. The country is ruled by President Emomali Rahmon, who has held power since 1994 with little room for opposition or dissent. Concerns have been raised about electoral irregularities, suppression of political opposition, and a lack of freedom of expression and the press. Additionally, the government restricts the activities of civil society organizations, and there are concerns about the treatment of minority groups, including the LGBT+ community.
Tanzania
Democracy Index
5.1
Ranked in the World
#93
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#98
Thailand
Democracy Index
6
Ranked in the World
#74
System of Government
Military Junta
Ranked in the World
#125
The Gambia
Democracy Index
4.4
Ranked in the World
#101
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#79
Togo
Democracy Index
2.8
Ranked in the World
#136
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#121
Trinidad and Tobago
Democracy Index
7.2
Ranked in the World
#40
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#39
Tunisia
Democracy Index
6
Ranked in the World
#75
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#73
Turkey
Democracy Index
4.3
Ranked in the World
#103
System of Government
Parliamentary Republic
Ranked in the World
#143
Turkmenistan
Democracy Index
1.7
Ranked in the World
#160
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#168
Uganda
Democracy Index
4.5
Ranked in the World
#99
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#117
Ukraine
Democracy Index
5.6
Ranked in the World
#86
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#97
United Arab Emirates
Democracy Index
2.9
Ranked in the World
#132
System of Government
Absolute Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#154
United Kingdom
Democracy Index
8.1
Ranked in the World
#21
System of Government
Constitutional Monarchies
Ranked in the World
#19
United States of America
Democracy Index
7.9
Ranked in the World
#26
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#29
The United States is the twenty-sixth most democratic country in the world based on the U.S.’s Democracy Index of 7.9 out of 10. The Democracy Index of the United States reflects the country's strong democratic institutions such as free and fair elections, a vibrant civil society, independent media, and a robust system of checks and balances. The U.S. has a constitutional framework that emphasizes the separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, as well as the protection of individual rights and freedoms. While the country faces challenges related to political polarization and the influence of money in politics, it remains a leading example of democratic governance in the world. The U.S. has a long history of democratic traditions, and its Constitution and laws provide the foundation for the protection of individual rights and freedoms, making it a full democracy.
Uruguay
Democracy Index
8.8
Ranked in the World
#13
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#23
Uzbekistan
Democracy Index
2.1
Ranked in the World
#150
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#150
Venezuela
Democracy Index
2.1
Ranked in the World
#151
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#157
Vietnam
Democracy Index
2.9
Ranked in the World
#133
System of Government
One-party
Ranked in the World
#137
Yemen
Democracy Index
2
Ranked in the World
#153
System of Government
Semi-presidential
Ranked in the World
#171
Zambia
Democracy Index
5.7
Ranked in the World
#82
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#99
Zimbabwe
Democracy Index
2.9
Ranked in the World
#134
System of Government
Presidential
Ranked in the World
#123
FAQs
What is a democracy ?
A democracy is a system of government where power is held by the people, either directly or through elected representatives. The key features of a democracy include free and fair elections, the rule of law, civil liberties, and political participation.
What is the most democratic country ?
According to the Democracy Index from The Economist Intelligence Unit, Norway is the most democratic country in the world, with a score of 9.8 out of 10.
What countries are democracies ?
Most countries in the world are considered to be democratic countries, but with varying degrees of democracy, as measured by democracy indexes. The exact definition and criteria for what makes a country a democracy can vary, but in general, it involves the citizens having a say in how the country is governed through free and fair elections, the protection of individual rights and freedoms, and the rule of law.
The top 15 most democratic countries in the world, according to the Democracy Index from the Economist Intelligence Unit, include Norway, New Zealand, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, Ireland, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Uruguay, Germany, and Luxembourg.