By: Alhaji A. Barrie
At a time when most nations are struggling to uphold justice and accountability, Sierra Leone has managed to move in the opposite direction. The country recorded a modest but meaningful improvement in the 2025 Global Rule of Law Index, standing out as one of Africa’s few success stories.
The index, published annually by the World Justice Project, measures how effectively countries enforce laws, protect rights, and ensure equality before the law. This year’s findings were sobering: nearly seven in ten countries worldwide saw their scores fall, marking the eighth consecutive year of global decline. Across Africa, 28 out of 38 nations slipped, reflecting challenges ranging from political instability to weakened judicial independence.
Sierra Leone’s score rose from 0.43 to 0.44, lifting it to 109th place out of 143 countries globally and 17th out of 34 in Sub-Saharan Africa. While the numerical gain may appear small, it is significant in a year dominated by regression.
Observers point to several factors behind the improvement:
– Judicial reforms that have strengthened independence and widened access to justice.
– Anti-corruption measures that are gradually restoring public trust in governance.
– Relative stability compared to regional neighbors, allowing institutions to function more effectively.
– Active civil society groups that continue to hold leaders accountable.
Elsewhere on the continent, Rwanda retained its position as Africa’s top performer, followed by Namibia, Mauritius, and Botswana. Senegal and Gabon also registered improvements, while Burkina Faso and Mali suffered sharp declines linked to political unrest and conflict.
Analysts describe Sierra Leone’s progress as a symbol of resilience. “In a year of widespread decline, Sierra Leone’s improvement is not just statistical—it’s a statement that reform is possible even in fragile contexts,” said governance analyst Mr. Sourie.
Still, challenges remain. Corruption, uneven enforcement of laws, and limited resources for the justice system continue to weigh heavily. Critics warn that without sustained reforms, the gains could easily stall.
Despite these hurdles, Sierra Leone’s upward movement offers hope. At a time when the global rule of law is under pressure, the country has shown that steady reforms, citizen engagement, and institutional resilience can deliver results. The challenge now is to sustain this momentum and translate statistical progress into everyday justice for citizens.
