A conservative country is one where traditional values and social norms hold significant sway over daily life. Eritrea ranks as the most conservative African country with a score of 0.01, followed by Equatorial Guinea at 0.05.
- Business Insider Africa presents the top 10 most conservative African countries.
- The list is courtesy of Wise Voter.
- Eritrea ranks as the most conservative African country with a score of 0.01, followed by Equatorial Guinea at 0.05.
A conservative country is one where traditional values and social norms hold significant sway over daily life. These nations often enforce strict regulations on behavior, including rules regarding public displays of affection, dress codes, and gender roles. There is typically a strong religious influence, with deep ties to traditional religious practices and beliefs.
DON’T MISS THIS: Top 10 African countries with the highest freedom of expression in 2024
In conservative countries, these values extend beyond personal conduct and often shape economic policies, which tend to be more regulated, discouraging foreign investment and innovation. As a result, these nations can be less open to tourism and immigration, as they impose rigid criteria on who is allowed to enter.
Additionally, these countries are often more socially restrictive, especially when it comes to media freedom. Many do not tolerate public criticism of the government or its leaders, and media outlets must comply with strict guidelines when reporting news.
This level of censorship can stifle freedom of speech, assembly, and other civil liberties, such as the right to vote in some instances. The resulting environment can leave citizens feeling restricted and frustrated, which may lead to unrest within the population.
According to Wisevoter, Eritrea ranks as the most conservative African country with a score of 0.01, followed by Equatorial Guinea at 0.05, ranking 12th globally. South Sudan comes in third with a score of 0.06, ranking 14th globally.
Below are the top 10 most conservative African countries:
| Rank | Country | Conservative | Global rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Eritrea | 0.01 | 1st |
| 2 | Equatorial Guinea | 0.05 | 12th |
| 3 | South Sudan | 0.06 | 14th |
| 4 | Chad | 0.07 | 16th |
| 5 | Burundi | 0.08 | 19th |
| 6 | Sudan | 0.08 | 22nd |
| 7 | Somalia | 0.09 | 26th |
| 8 | Republic of the Congo | 0.11 | 29th |
| 9 | Eswatini | 0.11 | 30th |
| 10 | Guinea | 0.11 | 31st |
