Sierra Leone has experienced a significant drop
in the 2024 Global Peace Index (GPI), plummeting 19 places from 47th in 2023 to
66th out of 163 countries. The GPI, compiled by the Institute for Economics and
Peace (IEP), ranks nations based on their levels of peace and stability,
utilizing 23 indicators such as political instability, terrorist activity,
conflict-related deaths, and military expenditure.
In 2024, Sierra Leone's GPI score stood at 1.993, contributing to its lower ranking. Several factors likely contributed to this decline, including political instability and violence following the disputed presidential election in June 2023.
The aftermath of the election saw
heightened tensions and disruptions, including a boycott of parliament and
violent incidents like the attack on a military barracks and a prison in
Freetown in November 2023. The economic downturn in 2023 also exacerbated food security issues, further destabilizing the country.
The June 2023 presidential election was a critical event that significantly influenced Sierra Leone's peace and stability. The results were contested by the main opposition party, the All-People’s Congress (APC), which accused the ruling party of rigging the election. This dispute led to a parliamentary boycott and cast doubt on the legitimacy of President Julius Maada Bio’s administration.
The political unrest and subsequent violence created a volatile environment, impacting Sierra Leone's ranking on the GPI. The GPI is a comprehensive measure of global peace, assessing nations on various criteria that collectively determine their overall peacefulness.
The index considers the level of safety and security in society, the extent of domestic and international conflict, and the degree of militarization. Sierra Leone’s significant drop in ranking highlights the impact of political turmoil and economic challenges on its peace and stability.
In summary, Sierra Leone's drop in the 2024 Global Peace Index underscores the effects of political and economic instability on the country's overall peace. The disputed presidential election, subsequent violence, and worsening economic conditions contributed to this decline. The situation in Sierra Leone exemplifies how political unrest and economic hardship can undermine a nation's peace and stability, as reflected in its GPI ranking.