How free are we? From dictatorships to democracies, there have been different levels of freedom in different countries at different points in history. Freedom House has come out with its 2017 report into world freedom, with a particular look at autocrats and populists. We've looked at a few popular expat destinations considered to be 'countries to keep an eye on' this year to see just how the level of freedom may be changing in them.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic and Prague, in particular, make for an appealing expat destination thanks to the comparatively reasonable cost of living for a pleasant European lifestyle. The city offers a rich, folkish history, with a natural landscape straight out of a fairytale. However, recent elections have seen the country veer to the centre-right, becoming part of the populist-nationalist wave that appears to be sweeping the globe. Though the party has vowed to not work with parties on the extreme right and extreme left, it is worthy of note that the anti-Islamist SPD received a fair share of votes. Party leader and billionaire Andrej Babis has found himself at the centre of a few scandals on his way to becoming Prime Minister. Nonetheless, his Euro-scepticism and promise to seek reforms on matters such as migration with the European council drew voters. Though this may not be viewed as a dramatic turn of events on a world stage that includes Brexit, for example, it certainly makes the country worth keeping an eye on regarding the freedom it affords.
Denmark
One of the Nordic countries, Denmark is one of the happiest countries with a good quality of life to boot. The country has an impressive social welfare system and a society that is progressive in terms of, for example, gender equality. However, the Danish People's Party (DPP) became the second largest in the country's last elections. In a country espoused for its liberal values and social welfare, it may seem surprising that a party with such right-wing views (including being staunchly anti-immigration) could become so popular. Even more surprising may be that a New Right is forming in Denmark, with even more extreme populist views. It should be noted that immigration policies in Denmark are already some of the strictest in Europe, and Danish MP's have even expressed interest in the widely reviled Australian detention system. This intent to restrict freedom of entry into the country for economic migrants and refugees is something worth watching, as is the outcome of the country's 2019 elections.
South Africa
President Jacob Zuma has been embroiled in a storm of fierce criticism during his time in power, from the firing of a well-regarded and well-liked finance minister in 2017 (whom he re-hired following a previous attempt at a cabinet reshuffle) to allegations over his relationship with the wealthy Gupta family. He has scraped through a number of no-confidence votes throughout his tenure. The obfuscating nature of many of the accusations and rebuffs has led to a lack of confidence in South Africa's leadership. The country itself and, specifically, Johannesburg, is viewed as a financial centre on the African continent. However, even the country's economy has struggled of late. As the ruling ANC party seeks to elect a new leader in the coming weeks, it is clear that all eyes are on the country to see whether democracy will triumph and promises to combat corruption are acted upon.
The United States
Little need be said about the election of businessman and reality TV star Donald Trump, as his rise to power has been widely documented across the world. However, despite having moderately strict immigration policies, the US president has sought to tighten these freedoms further, with numerous attempts at bans alleged to target predominantly Muslim countries. Furthermore, allegations of ties between his election campaign and Russian influence continues to be investigated. Previously liberal policies regarding LGBT citizens also appear to be becoming more conservative. The US has never been a particularly easy country to move to with quite a strict Green Card policy, however, it is a country that is famously built based on immigrants and the 'American Dream' is widely espoused. The impact of current and proposed policies on the civil liberties of different groups continues to be closely watched by other governments and the international media.
The Philippines
Home to idyllic beaches and a perceived laid-back lifestyle, the Philippines has succeeded in attracting tourists and expats alike over the years. For those willing to give up some aspects of a Western lifestyle, the Philippines offers a relatively low cost of living along with a pleasant tropical climate. However, global attention has been drawn to the country for the policies and violent war against the drug trade being waged by President Duterte. Human rights groups have expressed concerns about the brutality of the approach and reports of murders of very low-level players or young Filipinos who seem to have no ties to the drug trade. In addition, frequent scathing attacks against any opposition brings into question the future of freedom in the country. Duterte's popularity amongst the local population remains strong, although there have been protests of late, so it is worth keeping an eye on the country's future prospects.
