Significant Improvement in Political Rights and Civil Liberties in Sri Lanka: Freedom House Report

07-Apr-2026

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Despite global freedom and democratic rights continuing to decline for the 20th consecutive year, Sri Lanka recorded a notable improvement in political rights and civil liberties during 2025, according to a new report by Freedom House.

The US-based organisation released its annual report titled “Freedom in the World 2026”, stating that Sri Lanka’s score increased by five points. The report attributed this improvement to developments following the 2024 presidential election, the new Government’s anti-corruption measures, and efforts to promote religious tolerance.

While 54 countries recorded a decline in freedom globally, only 35 countries showed progress. Sri Lanka was identified among the nations that achieved significant improvement. Syria, Sri Lanka, Bolivia and Gabon were listed as the countries with the highest gains during the year.

Freedom House noted that Sri Lanka’s progress comes at a time when global democracy is under severe pressure due to conflicts, military coups, erosion of democratic institutions and increasing authoritarian trends.

The report also stated that global freedom has continued to decline for 20 consecutive years, largely due to worsening conditions in countries such as Guinea-Bissau, Tanzania, Burkina Faso, Madagascar and El Salvador.

Bolivia, Fiji and Malawi were upgraded from “Partly Free” to “Free” status. Although Sri Lanka remains classified as “Partly Free,” the report noted that the country has achieved measurable positive progress.

The report concluded that Sri Lanka’s improvement reflects a gradual democratic recovery following recent political and economic instability, and that such democratic resilience is highly significant in the current global context.