Botswana
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
75 / 100
Free
While it is considered one of the most stable democracies in Africa, Botswana has been dominated by a single party since independence, and many institutions answer to the office of the president. Media freedom is threatened by hostile lawsuits against journalists and restrictive legislative provisions. The Indigenous San people, migrants, refugees, LGBT+ people, and people living with disabilities all face discrimination.
Research & Recommendations
Botswana
Free
75
100
| PR Political Rights | 31 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 44 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
72
100
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.
Overview
While it is considered one of the most stable democracies in Africa, Botswana was dominated by a single party between independence and the 2024 election, and many institutions answer to the office of the president. Media freedom is threatened by hostile lawsuits against journalists and restrictive legislative provisions. The Indigenous San people, migrants, refugees, LGBT+ people, and people living with disabilities all face discrimination.
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
Freedom House Perspectives
News Releases & Media Coverage
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Freedom in the World Score
75
/ 100
Free
Population: 2,630,000
Internet Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Election Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Transnational Repression
Status
Not Tracked
