Europe

For decades Europe has maintained an exemplary level of respect for democratic standards and human rights, and has generally continued to do so in recent years despite serious economic turmoil. Nevertheless, many countries have developed problems related to their treatment of immigrants and minorities, and press freedom faces threats in a number of states. In addition, several countries in the Balkans are still consolidating their democratic institutions and will require further monitoring to ensure continued progress. Through its presence in Brussels, Freedom House works to address these issues and to increase Europe’s role in supporting the spread of democracy abroad.

Asterisks in the country list below indicate a territory rather than a country.