Mali
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
24 / 100
Not Free
Though constitutional rule was restored and a peace agreement signed after a 2012 military coup, insecurity and political tensions have persisted in Mali in the years that followed, culminating in two military coups in 2020 and 2021.
Research & Recommendations
Mali
Not Free
24
100
| PR Political Rights | 6 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 18 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
26
100
Not 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
Mali experienced a political transition away from authoritarian rule beginning in the early 1990s and gradually built up its democratic institutions for about 20 years. State fragility and economic neglect led to an insurgency in northern Mali in January 2012 and a military coup in Bamako in March of the same year. Since then, Mali has been in a quasi-permanent state of crisis and reconstruction. Violent conflicts between the state and Islamist militants and insurgents affect northern and central Mali. A military coup in 2020 ushered in a junta-led transitional government, and a second coup in 2021 reinforced the military’s hold on power. A new constitution was ratified in 2023, but elections planned for 2024 were postponed and the junta remains firmly in control of the government.
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
24
/ 100
Not Free
Population: 22,590,000
Internet Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Election Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Transnational Repression
Status
Not Tracked
