Where is internet access limited and where is it free? Map of the country for 2026
The results show a big difference. The report's highest score was 92 points, which was achieved by a group of 11 countries. Belgium, Finland, Costa Rica, and New Zealand are some of the countries on this list where people can use the internet with few restrictions, use social media freely, access content that isn't censored, and say what they think about politics without fear of punishment.
North Korea, on the other hand, got a zero. There, internet access is limited to a government-aligned elite, while the rest of the population can only use a censored national intranet. Other countries with very low levels of digital freedom include Russia, China, Iran, and Pakistan, each scoring only 4 points, reflecting their strict systems of information control.
Between these two extremes are countries such as the United States, Australia, and Japan, where scores are around 64, indicating relatively open access but with restrictions in specific areas such as copyright or digital surveillance.
How is internet freedom measured?
The report assesses four key areas: access to torrent files, adult content, political expression, and the use of virtual private networks (VPNs). Each category is analyzed according to three levels: full access, restricted access, and complete blocking. Based on these criteria, a final score is calculated, allowing for comparisons between countries in different regions.
One of the most striking findings is that restrictions exist even in countries with high levels of digital freedom. For example, torrenting is one of the most restricted areas globally due to copyright laws.
The reasons for censorship vary. In some cases, governments justify it by citing the need to control hate speech or misinformation. In others, restrictions aim to limit political criticism or control the flow of information. Tools such as blocking platforms, restricting the use of virtual private networks (VPNs), or temporarily shutting down services during elections are among the most common practices.
Consequences and risks for users
The repercussions of these restrictions on citizens vary depending on the level of censorship in each country. In countries with strict regimes, expressing opinions online can lead to fines, arrests, or even imprisonment. Blocking global platforms, such as social media networks and video services, is also common.
The study also warns of the impact of these restrictions on daily life. Censorship limits access to information, negatively affects digital education, and can hinder technological innovation. Conversely, more open countries tend to provide better conditions for the development of digital services and citizen participation.
While some regulatory measures are intended to protect users, the report concludes that they are often applied excessively. The result is a global landscape where internet freedom remains uneven and, in some places, virtually nonexistent.