The world is moving towards better things, or so many people think. There are plenty of things that are going on behind the scenes, that people as tourists rarely get to see unless they really want to look past all the beautiful sights that many countries have to offer. Even though most countries have democracy as a system of government, there are still some countries which are led by dictators or a totalitarian regime which silences the critics and keeps the citizens meek and obedient. With that in mind, here are the most oppressive countries in the world.

North Korea

North Korea is often mentioned as one of the most oppressive countries and with good reason. There have been plenty of studies which pointed to North Korea being at the bottom of the list when it comes to democracy, human freedom and economic freedom. It has either been first or in the top 3, which puts it in the first place of the most oppressive countries. Even though the Kim dynasty rules North Korea, they are also trying to bring tourists to their country, as well as nuclear weapons.

Syria

The studies also point to Syria being one of the worst countries when it comes to human freedom, economic freedom and democracy. That shouldn’t be a surprise given how many Syrians emigrated from the country in recent years.

The country has been in a civil war for the past 7 years, making life more than just difficult for its inhabitants. They often flee to Europe, hoping for a better life in the West, mostly Germany, and the Nordic countries.

Eritrea

Not to be confused with Eretria from the Shannara Chronicles, Eritrea is one of the most beautiful countries with breathtaking landscapes which is also, unfortunately ruled by a dictator. This dictator has also been accused of funding terrorist groups. Tourists avoid this country, due to its bad reputation, though the photos tell different stories, at least when they just show landscapes.

Turkmenistan

Once part of the Soviet Union, now a country which many avoid at all costs, and not due to its desert landscapes, or its dry air, but rather due to a dictatorship which lasted ever since they broke off from the Soviet Union. Imagine seeing gold statues of the current president. It is ironic because the official title is president, which is the exact opposite of what Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow actually is. Imagine taking away satellite dishes from everyone just to censor internet access. He ordered all black cars to be painted silver or white, at least in the capital of Ashgabat. He also stopped state funding to the Turkmenistan Academy of Sciences.

These are the world’s most oppressive countries in the world.