Mozambique
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
41 / 100
Partly Free
The ruling party’s unbroken incumbency before and since the first multiparty elections in 1994 has allowed it to establish significant control over state institutions. Mozambique also struggles with corruption, and journalists who report on it and other sensitive issues risk violent attacks.
Research & Recommendations
Mozambique
Partly Free
41
100
| PR Political Rights | 12 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 29 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
44
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.
Overview
The ruling Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO) has maintained unbroken incumbency before and since the first multiparty elections in 1994, allowing it to establish significant control over state institutions. The opposition has disputed the results of recent elections, with severe postelection violence erupting in 2024. Hundreds of thousands of people have been internally displaced due to an ongoing Islamist insurgency in Cabo Delgado, but some of them are returning as a result of increasing security. Mozambique also struggles with corruption, and journalists who report on it and other sensitive issues risk violent attacks.
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
News Releases & Media Coverage
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Freedom in the World Score
41
/ 100
Partly Free
Population: 32,970,000
Internet Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Election Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Transnational Repression
Status
Not Tracked
