The report indicates that Africa (33%) and Europe (25%) experienced the most substantial declines in democracy. West Asia was identified as the weakest region in terms of democratic progress. Despite the challenges, Europe still maintained high rankings, with Denmark being the only country to secure a top-5 position across all four democratic dimensions: representation, rule of law, participation, and rights. Germany, Norway, Switzerland, and Luxembourg also performed well. A major concern highlighted in the report is the decline in press freedom, marking the most significant drop in 50 years. Media freedom decreased in 43 countries between 2019 and 2024. Afghanistan, Myanmar, and Burkina Faso were among the worst performers, with increased attacks, legal cases, and censorship targeting journalists.
