People in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei. Editorial credit: hain.tarmann / Shutterstock.com

Brunei

Brunei is an absolute monarchy in which the sultan exercises executive power. There are no elected representatives at the national level. Freedoms of the press and assembly are significantly restricted. Online speech is monitored by authorities, but lively nevertheless.

Freedom in the World 2023

Freedom in the World — Brunei Country Report

Brunei is rated Not Free in Freedom in the World 2023, Freedom House's annual study of political rights and civil liberties worldwide.