Dili, March 23 (AseanAll)  — Timor-Leste's freedom index rose in 2026, reaching 73 out of 100 and preserving its “Free” status, according to data published by the NGO Freedom House. This marks an improvement from 2025, when it scored 72 points.

Timor-Leste is among the countries that, over the past twenty years, have moved from “Partly Free” to “Free” and sustained that status, demonstrating a trend of democratic strengthening. Timor-Leste scored 33 points in political rights (out of 40) and 40 points in civil liberties (out of 60).

This outcome occurs amid an international context characterised by a trend towards declining freedoms. According to the report, global freedom decreased for the 20th consecutive year in 2025, with more countries experiencing deterioration in political rights and civil liberties than improvements. The report also states that only 21% of the world’s population resides in countries classified as “free.”

Within the ASEAN context, Timor-Leste ranks highest among the region's member states, with the highest score on the index. Within the CPLP, Timor-Leste ranks just behind Portugal, Cape Verde, and São Tomé and Príncipe.

This stance reflects the progress achieved in national indicators and the strengthening of democratic institutions, in accordance with constitutional principles and the priorities of the 9th Constitutional Government’s Programme.