Mauritius continues to maintain one of the most open civic environments in Africa and remains classified as a “Free” country by Freedom House, with a score of 87/100 in 2026. Constitutional guarantees protecting freedoms of expression, association and peaceful assembly remain firmly established, and civil society organisations (CSOs) continue to play an important role in public policy debates, social development, environmental advocacy, governance reform and human rights promotion.
The period between December 2025 and June 2026 was marked by important political and institutional developments. The political climate has generally improved since the change of government following the November 2024 general elections. Civil society actors report a reduction in direct political pressure, harassment and restrictions that had characterised parts of the previous administration. No further social media shutdowns or comparable restrictions on online communications were reported during the assessment period. Nevertheless, concerns remain regarding surveillance powers contained within existing legislation, the independence of oversight institutions and the absence of a comprehensive access to information framework.
Human rights defenders continue to operate in a relatively open environment compared to many countries in the region. However, organisations working on governance, anti-corruption, minority rights, police accountability and LGBTIQ+ rights continue to report challenges, including limited institutional engagement, occasional hostility in public discourse and concerns regarding selective enforcement of laws regulating public assemblies.
The legal framework governing civil society remains generally supportive. The Registration of Associations Act 1978 and the Foundations Act 2012 provide mechanisms for the establishment and operation of CSOs. However, the absence of a dedicated legal framework protecting human rights defenders, broad discretionary powers granted to regulatory authorities and the lack of explicit safeguards against state interference continue to raise concerns among civil society actors.
Access to sustainable funding remains one of the most significant challenges facing the sector. The centralisation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds under state-managed mechanisms continues to generate concerns regarding financial independence and transparency. Although international funding remains accessible, many organisations remain heavily dependent on public funding streams and face administrative burdens associated with grant applications and reporting requirements.
State engagement with civil society remains largely ad hoc. While consultation occurs in specific policy areas and during pre-budget exercises, there is no institutionalised framework guaranteeing meaningful CSO participation in policymaking processes. Mauritius also continues to lack a Freedom of Information or Access to Information law, limiting transparency and reducing opportunities for evidence-based advocacy.
Public perceptions of civil society remain broadly positive. CSOs are widely recognised for their contributions to social welfare, environmental protection and human rights advocacy. However, civic participation remains relatively low, particularly among rural populations, men, and individuals with lower levels of formal education. Political disengagement and limited trust in political institutions continue to affect broader citizen participation.
Digital freedoms remain generally protected. Mauritius enjoys high levels of internet penetration and relatively affordable connectivity. However, the legacy of the 2024 social media restrictions and ongoing concerns regarding surveillance powers highlight the need for stronger safeguards to protect privacy, freedom of expression and digital civic space.
Overall, Mauritius continues to provide a comparatively enabling environment for civil society. Nevertheless, important reforms remain necessary to strengthen transparency, institutional accountability, access to information, sustainable financing and the protection of human rights defenders.
