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2025 Atlas

Freedom and prosperity around the world

2024 has seen escalating global crises, shifting alliances, and over half of the world’s population voting in national elections. In this Atlas, twenty leading economists, scholars, and diplomats analyze the state of freedom and prosperity in sixteen countries around the world, looking back not only on a consequential year but across twenty-nine years of data on markets, rights, and the rule of law.

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2024 Atlas

Freedom and prosperity around the world

The contemporary geopolitical landscape is marked by a series of crises—economic downturns, geopolitical tensions, and global pandemics—that have reshaped the role of governments worldwide. This comprehensive volume, featuring insights from twenty leading economists and diplomats, serves as a roadmap for navigating the complexities of contemporary governance. 

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Content

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 11, 2025

More stable trade and investment policies can bolster the Nigerian economy

By Zainab Usman

Nigeria’s political and economic trajectory has been marked by democratic breakthroughs as well as electoral setbacks, insurgent conflicts, and volatile reforms. While the country has made notable strides in reducing poverty and lowering inequality, continued efforts to address insecurity, poor health standards, and pervasive corruption are needed to enhance national freedom and prosperity.

Africa
Economy & Business

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 10, 2025

Cameroon’s future relies on empowering its women 

By Vera Songwe

To build a stronger, more prosperous Cameroon, the country must prioritize boosting economic and political freedoms and invest in managing its environmental resources. This strategy will not only benefit Cameroonian women but also prove most impactful in advancing the nation as a whole.

Corruption
Energy & Environment

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 5, 2025

Surrounded by superpowers, Kazakhstan walks a geopolitical tightrope

By Nargis Kassenova

Still a relatively young nation, Kazakhstan finds itself at critical juncture amid a series of domestic and geopolitical shocks. Its future depends on the success of economic liberalization efforts—and a delicate balancing act: The country must strengthen ties with the West and simultaneously manage its relations with powerful neighbors like Russia and China.

Central Asia
Elections

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 5, 2025

Poland’s democracy stands firm, but its economy faces headwinds

By Leszek Balcerowicz

Despite recent political turmoil, Poland has shown resilience in defending democracy and the rule of law. However, its economic outlook is less certain, as challenges such as incomplete post-Soviet privatization, high fiscal spending, and demographic shifts are threatening long-term growth.

Civil Society
Eastern Europe

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Feb 4, 2025

Demographic shifts in Spain call for reinvigorated reforms

By Toni Roldán Monés

While Spain continues to perform well in the Freedom and Prosperity Indexes, sustaining this performance will involve overhauling the education system, pursuing political reforms to enhance institutional strength, and preserving fiscal sustainability amidst changing demographics.

Economy & Business
Education

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Jan 30, 2025

Peru’s economy needs to unlock its green potential

By Liliana Rojas-Suarez

Peru’s green transition offers a path to prosperity through renewable energy, critical minerals, and job creation. Prioritizing infrastructure, labor market reforms, and human capital development can drive growth. Political consensus around this vision is key to overcoming institutional weaknesses and positioning Peru as a global leader in the green economy.

Economy & Business
Energy Transitions

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Jan 28, 2025

After the Monsoon Revolution, Bangladesh’s economy and government need major reforms

By Ahmed Mushfiq Mobarak

In 2024, Bangladesh’s student-led “Monsoon Revolution” ousted an entrenched autocratic regime, marking a historic shift. Yet, with deep systemic corruption and political resistance, the road to stability remains uncertain.

Bangladesh
Corruption
georgia

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Jan 23, 2025

Georgia protests highlight urgent need for government reforms

By Tinatin Khidasheli

Recent democratic regression in Georgia undermines the rights of citizens and threatens long-term prosperity. To restore faith in Georgian democracy and build on past economic progress, the government must address challenges related to the judiciary, Russian influence, and social inequalities.

Europe & Eurasia
Freedom and Prosperity

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Jan 23, 2025

On prosperity, Taiwan ranks high—but its future hinges on Chinese power plays

By Shelley Rigger

Taiwan’s democracy has thrived for over three decades, defined by vibrant elections and a deep pride in its liberal institutions. Despite Beijing's persistent threats of a takeover, Taiwan’s global economic significance acts as a buffer against conflict. Yet, the country's future remains uncertain as it must balance its economic and political ideals with escalating geopolitical tensions.

Democratic Transitions
East Asia

Freedom and Prosperity Around the World

Jan 23, 2025

Greece’s population must be given reason to trust its government

By Elias Papaioannou

As Greece celebrates fifty years since the restoration of democracy, its government must prioritize rebuilding public trust in politics, creating expansive economic opportunity, protecting pristine landscapes, and investing in health and education.

Economy & Business
Energy & Environment
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