Freedom in the World reports assess the level of political rights and civil liberties in a given geographical area, regardless of whether they are affected by the state, nonstate actors, or foreign powers. Disputed or occupied territories are sometimes assessed separately if they meet certain criteria, including boundaries that are sufficiently stable to allow year-on-year comparisons. For more information, see the report methodology and FAQ.

Large parts of South Ossetia, a breakaway territory of Georgia, enjoyed de facto independence after a civil conflict ended in 1992. A 2008 war that drew in Russian forces resulted in the expulsion of the remaining Georgian government presence and most ethnic Georgian civilians. Only Russia and a handful of other states have since recognized South Ossetia’s independence. The territory remains almost entirely dependent on Moscow, which exerts a decisive influence over its politics and governance. Local media and civil society are largely controlled or monitored by the authorities, and the justice system is subject to political influence and manipulation.

• The ruling Nykhas party won parliamentary elections held in June. The opposition United Ossetia party claimed fraud and boycotted the parliament, but eventually took their seats in October. The election commission barred several parties and candidates from competing. Remaining ethnic Georgian residents have been denied the ability to participate in elections.
• In December, the Ministry of Internal Affairs called on lawmakers to draft and adopt a law banning “LGBT propaganda and the display of nontraditional sexual orientations.” Similar laws have long been on the books in Russia, which in 2023 additionally categorized the “international LGBT movement” as an “extremist organization.”
• In February, Russian authorities stripped three South Ossetian opposition lawmakers of their Russian citizenship and prohibited them from entering Russia until 2049. The decision was handed down after they had formally proposed the restoration of South Ossetian borders to their 1922 status, an initiative disfavored by Moscow. South Ossetian passports are not recognized by the vast majority of governments, meaning those who do not hold another passport face severe limits on international travel.
• According to international media reports, in July, a group of people shot and wounded two nephews of former President Anatoly Bibilov in Tskhinvali, in a daytime attack. Witnesses reportedly said that President Alan Gagloyev’s brother was involved in the incident.

This report has been abridged for Freedom in the World 2025 due to ongoing budget constraints. Freedom in the World is entirely funded by nongovernmental sources such as private foundations, corporations, and individuals like you. Please consider making a donation to support future editions of this vital resource.

For additional background information, see last year’s full report.