After the contested 2022 elections in Angola, which returned the ruling party and President João Lourenço to power with a reduced majority, disillusionment with the political system remained widespread. Although the opposition showed greater assertiveness, including an unprecedented parliamentary attempt to impeach the president, the party control over parliament and the judiciary ensured that no meaningful accountability resulted. The human rights situation remained fragile, while press freedom further deteriorated.
Economic conditions remain fragile, marked by weak diversification and persistent underfunding of health and education. Repeated strikes in both sectors reflect deteriorating working conditions and growing social discontent. Members of an emerging middle class face shrinking opportunities, contributing to meager economic perspectives and increasing consideration of emigration.
In governance, Angola shows a mixed picture. While domestic reform capacity remains limited, President Lourenço has strengthened international cooperation, notably securing significant foreign investment commitments and cultivating regional partnerships, including the state visit by former U.S. President Joe Biden, and relations with partners in Southern and Central Africa.
