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Multiparty national elections

What this indicator measures

Shows, according to V-Dem, whether national elections are multiparty, that is, whether several parties can field candidates in them. It does not say whether these elections are free and fair.

How to read this?

“Multiparty elections” means that several parties can run; “No multiparty elections” means that this is not the case.

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167countries with data
2020–2025data year(s)

In brief

Multiparty national elections: 167 countries and territories covered. Breakdown: Multiparty elections : 148 ; No multiparty elections : 19.

Why this indicator matters

Being able to choose between several parties is a basic condition of an open election. This indicator shows where competition between parties is allowed in national elections.

What makes this indicator vary

Multiparty politics depends on political history, the type of regime, the Constitution and the rules for creating parties. Changes of regime or reforms can open or close competition.

Reading precautions

“Multiparty” only says that several parties can run. It does not guarantee that the vote is free, fair or free of fraud. The assessment comes from V-Dem experts, so it is a judgment rather than a count.

Multiparty national elections

Multiparty elections (148)

No multiparty elections (19)

Frequently asked questions

Where does the "Multiparty national elections" data come from?

It comes from V-Dem (Varieties of Democracy), version 16 – via Our World in Data. Site last updated: November 8, 2026. Each country is shown with the year of its most recent value.

Does a multiparty election mean a free election?

No. Multiparty means that several parties can field candidates. A free and fair election also requires an honest vote, a free press and the absence of pressure.

What is the V-Dem project?

V-Dem (Varieties of Democracy) is an international research project. It asks many experts to assess the political institutions of each country against precise criteria.

Source and update

Source : V-Dem (Varieties of Democracy), version 16 – via Our World in Data. Site last updated: November 8, 2026.

Indicators in the same category : Democracy & Elections