Freedom Index By Country

In a world where individual rights, civil liberties, and democratic ideals are increasingly championed, understanding the degree of freedom each country offers its citizens is of paramount importance. The "Human Freedom Index" offers a comprehensive annual ranking of countries based on various aspects including rule of law, security and safety, economic freedom, and individual freedoms such as the freedom of expression, religion, and association.

Each year, countries are given a score between 0 and 10, with higher scores indicating a higher level of freedom.

Key findings from the data include:

• Switzerland tops the Human Freedom Index with a score of 9.11, closely followed by New Zealand and Denmark with scores of 9.01 and 8.98, respectively.
• The United States, one of the world's oldest democracies, comes in 15th with a score of 8.73, on par with nations like United Kingdom and Japan and slightly ahead of Germany.
• The Middle East and North Africa region struggled for freedom, with countries like Syria, Yemen, and Sudan at the bottom of the index, indicating severe restrictions on individual freedoms and liberties.
• Asian countries exhibit a wide range of scores, with Hong Kong and Japan ranking highly with scores exceeding 8.4, while North Korea remains one of the least free, with severely limited individual rights and civil liberties.
• Despite being known for high living standards and social security, the Nordic countries, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Iceland all slipped below Switzerland in the Freedom Index, underscoring the complex nuances of defining and measuring 'freedom'.

Leading the global ranking for freedom is Switzerland, scoring an impressive 9.11 on the Human Freedom Index. With a renowned reputation for neutrality, democratic processes, and respect for human rights, Switzerland offers its inhabitants high levels of both personal and economic freedom.

Aquainted closely with Switzerland, in the second place, we find New Zealand with a score of 9.01. Known for its political stability and transparency, New Zealand's commitment to preserving individual rights and freedoms remains one of its core societal values.

Denmark, scoring 8.98, holds its third standing spot in the Freedom index steadfastly. The Nordic country is recognised for its focus on civil liberties, security, and protection of individual rights.

Eastern European country Estonia follows next, scoring 8.91 on the index. Despite its tumultuous past, Estonia has made significant strides in health and education freedoms, aiding its high ranking.

Ireland attains fifth place with a remarkable 8.90 score. This Emerald Isle is famed for its strong democracy, rule of law, and safeguards for individual rights.

The rest of the top ten include Canada (8.85), Finland (8.85), Australia (8.84), Sweden (8.83), and Luxembourg (8.80), all of which have demonstrated a strong commitment to upholding freedom and ensuring rights for their citizens.

10 Freest Countries in the World:

1. Switzerland - 9.11
2. New Zealand - 9.01
3. Denmark - 8.98
4. Estonia - 8.91
5. Ireland - 8.90
6. Canada - 8.85
7. Finland - 8.85
8. Australia - 8.84
9. Sweden - 8.83
10. Luxembourg - 8.80

To sort the data in the table, click on the column headers.