Sweden third best in the world – among the countries that make the most benefit

Sweden is third in the new survey “The Good Country Index”, where countries are judged on the basis of how much benefit they make in the world.

The idea of the Good Country Index is simple: to measure what each country on earth contributes to the common good of humanity, and what it takes away, relative to its size. Using a wide range of data from the U.N. and other international organisations, we’ve given each country a balance-sheet to show at a glance whether it’s a net creditor to mankind, a burden on the planet, or something in between.

It is the fourth time that “The Good Country Index” is published. The measurements show how countries in relation to their population make the most benefit to humanity and at the same time burden the environment as little as possible.

Sweden came in third in the latest survey published on Wednesday. The countries are compared according to 35 different parameters, which are based on data from the UN and other international organizations.

Sweden’s foremost position is a second place in health and well-being, where parameters such as food aid, pharmaceutical exports and humanitarian aid donations are included. In the category of culture, Sweden is in fifth place, where press freedom and freedom of movement are at the top. Sweden has two seventh placements in exports and the planet and climate.

153 states are included in the survey. Finland is ranked first and Ireland second in the index this year.