The world is constantly changing and progressing, and so are the countries that form the global community. Some countries have achieved greater advancement and prosperity compared to others, thanks to their economic, social, political, and technological accomplishments.
However, how can we assess and compare the level of development among different countries? One of the most commonly used indicators is the Human Development Index (HDI), which is calculated annually by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The HDI is a composite measure that evaluates a country’s average achievements in three essential dimensions: health, education, and standard of living. It ranges from 0 to 1, with higher values indicating higher levels of human development.
According to the latest HDI report released in December 2020, which encompasses data up to 2019, there are 50 countries worldwide classified as having a very high level of human development, with an HDI of at least 0.8. Here is a list of the top 10 most developed countries in the world based on their HDI values for 2019:
1. Norway
Norway, located in Northern Europe, is a Nordic country renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and high quality of life. With a population of approximately 5.4 million people, Norway boasts a GDP per capita of $67,989.
In terms of human development, Norway holds the top position globally, with an HDI value of 0.957 in 2019. The country excels across all aspects of human development, including a life expectancy of 82.3 years at birth, an average of 12.6 years of schooling, and a gross national income (GNI) per capita of $68,012.
Furthermore, Norway ranks prominently in various well-being indicators, such as happiness, democracy, gender equality, environmental sustainability, and social security.
2. Ireland
Ireland is a country located in Western Europe and is renowned for its picturesque green landscapes, rich culture, and hospitable people. The population of Ireland is approximately 4.9 million, and it boasts a GDP per capita of $78,661.
With an impressive Human Development Index (HDI) value of 0.955 in 2019, Ireland holds the second-highest ranking globally. Over the past few decades, Ireland has achieved notable advancements in human development indicators. Life expectancy at birth has increased from 74.1 years in 1990 to 82.1 years in 2019.
Mean years of schooling have also seen a positive shift, rising from 9.2 years in 1990 to 12.5 years in 2019. Furthermore, Ireland’s Gross National Income (GNI) per capita has experienced substantial growth, escalating from $16,434 in 1990 to $69,374 in 2019.
3. Switzerland
Switzerland, situated in Central Europe, is a landlocked country renowned for its breathtaking mountains, picturesque lakes, and vibrant cities. It is widely recognized for its neutrality, innovative spirit, and high quality of life.
With a population of approximately 8.6 million people, Switzerland boasts a remarkable GDP per capita of $81,994. In terms of human development, Switzerland ranks third globally, achieving an impressive HDI value of 0.955 in 2019.
The country excels in all three dimensions of human development, showcasing a life expectancy at birth of 83.6 years, mean years of schooling reaching 13.4 years, and a GNI per capita amounting to $69,577.
4. Hong Kong
Hong Kong, situated on the eastern coast of the Pearl River Delta, is a special administrative region of China. It is renowned for its high population density, urbanization, impressive skyscrapers, vibrant shopping scene, and its status as a financial hub.
With approximately 7.5 million inhabitants, Hong Kong boasts a GDP per capita of $48,733. It also holds the fourth-highest Human Development Index (HDI) globally, reaching a value of 0.949 in 2019. Hong Kong excels particularly in the realms of health and income, boasting a life expectancy at birth of 84.7 years, the highest worldwide, and a GNI per capita of $60,221.
5. Iceland
Iceland, located in the North Atlantic Ocean, is an island country renowned for its volcanic landscapes, geothermal energy, and Nordic culture. With a population of approximately 364 thousand people, Iceland boasts a GDP per capita of $66,944.
It holds the fifth highest Human Development Index (HDI) globally, reaching a value of 0.949 in 2019. Iceland excels in all three dimensions of human development, with a life expectancy at birth of 82.9 years, a mean years of schooling of 12.4 years, and a GNI per capita of $46,556. Moreover, Iceland ranks prominently in various well-being indicators, including peace, freedom, equality, and happiness.
6. Germany
Germany is a country located in Central and Western Europe. It is a federal parliamentary republic known for its rich history, vibrant culture, strong industrial base, and commitment to innovation. The population of Germany is approximately 83.8 million people, and the country has a GDP per capita of $46,445.
In terms of human development, Germany ranks sixth worldwide with a Human Development Index (HDI) value of 0.947 in 2019. Germany has achieved significant progress across all dimensions of human development, including a life expectancy at birth of 81.2 years, an average of 14.1 years of schooling, and a GNI per capita of $47,603.
7. Sweden
Sweden is a country located in Northern Europe and is part of the Nordic region. It is well-known for its strong social welfare system, commitment to environmental sustainability, and progressive values. The population of Sweden is approximately 10.3 million people, and the country has a GDP per capita of $51,264.
In terms of human development, Sweden ranks seventh in the world with an HDI (Human Development Index) value of 0.945 as of 2019. The nation has achieved high standards in all three dimensions of human development, including a life expectancy at birth of 82.7 years, an average of 12.3 years of schooling, and a GNI (Gross National Income) per capita of $47,766.
8. Australia
Australia is both a country and a continent located in the Southern Hemisphere. It is renowned for its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and rich culture. With a population of approximately 25.4 million people, Australia boasts a GDP per capita of $55,060.
In terms of human development, Australia holds the eighth position globally with an HDI value of 0.944 as of 2019. The country excels in all three dimensions of human development, with a life expectancy at birth of 83.3 years, an average of 13 years of schooling, and a GNI per capita of $44,291.
9. Netherlands
The Netherlands, located in Western Europe, is renowned for its flat terrain, colorful tulip fields, iconic windmills, and strong cycling culture. With a population of approximately 17.3 million people, the country boasts a GDP per capita of $52,331.
In terms of human development, the Netherlands holds the ninth-highest Human Development Index (HDI) globally, with a value of 0.944 as of 2019. Across all three dimensions of human development, the country has achieved remarkable standards: an average life expectancy of 82 years, an average of 12 years of schooling, and a GNI per capita of $50,339.
10. Denmark
Denmark is a country located in Northern Europe, belonging to the Nordic region. It is renowned for its hygge lifestyle, democratic principles, and commitment to renewable energy. The population of Denmark is approximately 5.8 million people, and its GDP per capita stands at $60,170.
With an HDI (Human Development Index) value of 0.940 in 2019, Denmark ranks tenth globally. The country has achieved remarkable human development across all three dimensions, including a life expectancy at birth of 80.9 years, an average of 12.7 years of schooling, and a GNI (Gross National Income) per capita of $48,530.
Conclusion
The globe is abundant with diverse and vibrant nations that present a variety of opportunities and challenges for both their citizens and visitors. Different countries possess varying levels of development, as determined by various criteria and indicators that assess their progress and welfare.
The Human Development Index (HDI) is one such indicator that offers a comprehensive and comparative view of human development levels across regions and countries.
As of 2019, the latest HDI report identifies the top 10 most developed countries in the world. However, it’s important to note that this ranking is subject to change as countries encounter new prospects and obstacles in the future.
