Abkhazia
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
39 / 100
Partly Free
Abkhazia, a breakaway region of Georgia, has maintained de facto independence since the end of a civil conflict in 1993. The separatist government is financially dependent on Russia, which has a military presence in Abkhazia and is one of a handful of United Nations (UN) member states that recognize the territory’s independence. The tumultuous political environment features significant opposition and civil society activity. Ongoing problems include a flawed criminal justice system, discrimination against ethnic Georgians, and a lack of economic opportunity.
Research & Recommendations
Abkhazia*
Partly Free
39
100
| PR Political Rights | 17 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 22 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
39
100
Partly Free
A country or territory’s Freedom in the World status depends on its aggregate Political Rights score, on a scale of 0–40, and its aggregate Civil Liberties score, on a scale of 0–60.
See the methodology.
* Indicates a territory as opposed to an independent country.
Overview
Abkhazia, a breakaway region of Georgia, has maintained de facto independence since the end of a civil conflict in 1993. The separatist government is financially dependent on Russia, which has a military presence in Abkhazia and is one of a handful of United Nations (UN) member states that recognize the territory’s independence. The tumultuous political environment features significant opposition and civil society activity. Ongoing problems include a flawed criminal justice system, discrimination against ethnic Georgians, and a lack of economic opportunity.
Freedom in the World 2025 Policy Recommendations
Prioritize strengthening the rule of law and delivering economic dividends in the aftermath of political transitions
In countries where democratic forces have come to power after periods of antidemocratic rule, the new governments should pursue an agenda that protects and expands freedoms even as it delivers tangible economic and social benefits to citizens.
In countries emerging from war or the collapse of authoritarian regimes, focus on safety, reconciliation, reform
These countries must act swiftly to release all political prisoners, build or revitalize democratic institutions, reform police and other security forces, organize and hold competitive multiparty elections, and ensure accountability for past human rights violations.
Bolster checks and balances to mitigate the threat of democratic backsliding
In countries where there has been significant erosion of political rights and civil liberties, policymakers, legislators, jurists, civic activists, and donor communities should work to strengthen institutional guardrails and norms that serve to constrain elected leaders with antidemocratic or illiberal aims.
News and Updates
Featured
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Freedom in the World Score
39
/ 100
Partly Free
Internet Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Election Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Transnational Repression
Status
Not Tracked
Note: Freedom in the World reports assess the level of political rights and civil liberties in a given geographical area, regardless of whether they are affected by the state, nonstate actors, or foreign powers. Disputed or occupied territories are sometimes assessed separately if they meet certain criteria, including boundaries that are sufficiently stable to allow year-on-year comparisons. For more information, see the report methodology and FAQ.
