Benin

Benin is a least developed country in West Africa, with an estimated population of 14.8 million (2025). The country has a life expectancy of 61 years, a GDP of US$24.57 billion, and a GDP per capita of US$1,658.30 (2025). Despite steady economic growth, Benin continues to face significant governance and human rights challenges. The CIVICUS Monitor classifies the country’s civic space as “Obstructed,” citing increasing restrictions on fundamental freedoms. Civil society organisations have raised concerns over the shrinking civic space, including attacks on independent media, arbitrary arrests of government critics, restrictions on peaceful assembly, discrimination against women and marginalised groups, and forced evictions. Political tensions have also intensified following a failed coup attempt, resulting in numerous prosecutions and arrests under the Court for the Repression of Economic Offences and Terrorism (CRIET), raising further concerns about democratic governance and civic freedoms. Sources: CIVICUS Monitor, World Bank Data