Vava'u Islands, Tonga. Editorial Credit: Danita Delmont/Shutterstock.com

Tonga

Tonga’s constitutional monarchy has featured a prime minister backed by a mostly elected parliament since 2010. However, the king retains important powers, including the authority to veto legislation, dissolve the parliament, and appoint judicial officials. While civil liberties are generally protected, ongoing concerns include official corruption and land laws that discriminate against women.

Iranian people in Izmir protest the death of Mahsa Amini by the morality police in Iran.

Freedom in the World — Tonga Country Report

Tonga is rated Free in Freedom in the World 2023, Freedom House's annual study of political rights and civil liberties worldwide.