More than 1.6 billion people-23 percent of the world's population-have no say in how they are governed and face severe consequences if they try to exercise their most basic rights, such as expressing their views, assembling peacefully, and organising independently of the state. Citizens who dare to assert their rights in these repressive countries typically suffer harassment and imprisonment, and often are subjected to physical or psychological abuse. These regimes keep a tight grip on power by eliminating political opposition, emasculating civil society, and silencing their critics.  Freedom House