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Freedom House Congratulates Sudan on a Successful Referendum

Washington- Freedom House congratulates Southern Sudan on a successful referendum process and urges a sustained commitment by political leaders in Southern Sudan as well as the international community to building a viable democratic society in what will be the world's newest country.

According to the final referendum results announced yesterday, nearly 99% of Southern Sudanese opted for secession. The process was largely peaceful and determined to be generally credible by both international and domestic observers. Now that the will of the Southern Sudanese people has been voiced, the hard work begins to build a well-functioning democratic, independent state.

"We applaud the people of Southern Sudan for their successful voting process," said David J. Kramer, executive director at Freedom House. "Huge challenges, of course, still lie ahead. The fundamental elements necessary for building a robust democracy, including a vibrant civil society, a free and independent media, good governance and a respect for the rule of law, must be significantly strengthened in Southern Sudan. A commitment by all involved to start that work now will be critical to ensuring the country begins on a solid foundation."

The Government of Southern Sudan is dominated by the Sudan People's Liberation Movement (SPLM), which has struggled to transition from a rebel movement into an effective governing party. Competition has largely been suppressed for the larger goal of self-determination but the SPLM will need to expand political space and improve accountable governance in order to achieve a viable independent state.

"The success of the referendum is a historic win for the people of Southern Sudan and it would be a shame if the end result did not reflect the will of those who fought so hard for their freedom," said Robert Herman, Freedom House director of programs. "What comes next must be an open and inclusive political process based on a demonstrated commitment to democratic values and protection of universal rights."

Sudan is ranked Not Free in Freedom in the World 2011, Freedom House's survey of political rights and civil liberties, and Not Free in Freedom of the Press 2010.

For more information on Sudan, visit:

Freedom in the World 2011: Sudan

Freedom of the Press 2010: Sudan
Freedom House is an independent watchdog organization that supports democratic change, monitors the status of freedom around the world, and advocates for democracy and human rights.