Freedom House reviews political rights and civil liberties in 192 countries and 14 disputed territories and ranks them on a 1 to 7 scale. 1 represents the most free and 7 represents the least free. Countries and territories that receive two 7s or a 6 and a 7 are included in the list of repressive regimes.

Belarus received a 7 for political rights and a 6 for civil liberties. The report identifies that due to extreme poverty and economic gender discrimination, women are being victimized in the international sex-trafficking trade.

Russia (Chechnya) received a 7 in each category. The report noted that women in this region are facing significant discrimination and violence within the traditional culture. Women are further being victimized in connection to the armed conflict. Women are being raped by soldiers and are being abducted.

Turkmenistan received a 7 in each category. The report noted that women's role in society is sharply curtailed by cultural and religious practices and that domestic violence is widespread.

Uzbekistan received a 7 for political rights and a 6 for civil liberties. Trafficking in women and domestic violence are significant problems in Uzbekistan. Perpetrators are domestic violence are rarely prosecuted and women are discouraged from reporting violence.

The Report draws attention to the fact that six of the countries identified as amongst the most repressive societies are members of the UN Commission of Human Rights and as such are charged with monitoring and addressing human rights abuses.

For a copy of the complete report, click here

Compiled From: "World's Worst Regimes Unveiled," Freedom House; "Freedom House Annual Survey: The World’s Most Repressive Regimes", e-CIVICUS 19 April, 2005