Tanzania
Freedom at a Glance
Global Freedom
35 / 100
Not Free
After the late John Magufuli became Tanzania's president in 2015, the government cracked down on its critics in the political opposition, the press, and civil society. Opposition, media, and civil society activity has somewhat increased under Samia Suluhu Hassan, who became president in 2021 upon Magufuli’s death.
Research & Recommendations
Tanzania
Not Free
35
100
| PR Political Rights | 11 40 |
| CL Civil Liberties | 24 60 |
Last Year's Score & Status
36
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
Tanzania has held regular multiparty elections since its transition from a one-party state in the early 1990s, but the opposition remains weak. The ruling Chama cha Mapinduzi (CCM) has retained power for over 60 years. Samia Suluhu Hassan became president in 2021 upon the death of President John Magufuli, who had cracked down on critics in the opposition, media, and civil society. After a period of some liberalization, President Hassan has begun to resort to similarly repressive tactics.
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
Freedom House Perspectives
News Releases & Media Coverage
Country Facts
Basic Facts
Freedom in the World Score
35
/ 100
Not Free
Population: 65,500,000
Internet Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Election Facts
Status
Not Tracked
Transnational Repression
Status
Not Tracked
