The latest Country-ranking index doesn’t measure GDP or even national happiness.

Instead, the Good Country Index (GCI) ranks Countries based on how much they do for others on the planet. Using a wide range of data from the U.N. and 35 other international organisations, each nation is judged on how much it contributes to the common good of humanity, and what it takes away.

With 125 nations under scrutiny, each country is rated in seven areas including culture, international peace and security, world order, planet and climate, prosperity and Equality, health and well being, and science and technology. Here’s a look at the latest ranking of countries that contribute the most to the world. [Updated in January 2018]

10 Countries that Contribute the Most to the World

1. Netherlands

Based on the Good Country ranking, Netherlands is the biggest do-gooder in the world. The country is a top contributor in prosperity and equality, culture and world order.

The freedom of the arts is evident throughout the Netherlands, both in the past (as evident from famous Dutch artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh) and present.

Bicycles are a huge part of local life, and the flat landscape makes cycling journeys especially fun. A big portion of the Netherlands is dedicated to agriculture (including the famous tulip gardens), and bicycling through the fields and the cities is a great way to get a local perspective. Make sure to keep an eye out for windmills, which have powered so much of the Netherlands since the 13th century.

2. Switzerland

Switzerland is the second best country in contributing prosperity and equality, topping the charts with their contributions in planet and climate.

With so much to offer beyond top banks and chocolate, Switzerland is a prime spot for those who love winter sports. The country is hallowed by the ski and snowboard obsessed, and the mountains surely don’t disappoint, with Central Switzerland and Bernese Overland being two favorites.

Even summer-lovers can’t fault Switzerland’s snow-capped mountains and summer green pastures. If winter sports aren’t your thing, you can take advantage of the epic surroundings by hiking or biking, or jumping in on a more adrenaline-fueled adventure like white water rafting or rock climbing.

3. Denmark

Denmark’s landscape is perhaps less jaw-dropping than its Scandinavian neighbors, but that is not where the country shines most. Denmark is most notable not for its natural wonders but for its cultural creations.

The country is home to amazing architecture (both modern and classical), and even more noteworthy, is a true example in the world of a society of inclusivity and equality.   In fact, Denmark seems like an actual utopia.

With free universities, biking transportation, a year maternity leave, and so much more, it’s hard to imagine a more perfect place. Denmark has also nailed the idea of “cosy”, with comfortable furnishings, and some amazing pastries (like the namesake “danish”). It’s difficult to leave this welcoming, comfy, pastry-filled wonderland.

4. Finland

Next on the list is Finland, which ranks in the top ten for several areas including prosperity and equality, and science and technology.

This northern country offers a winter wonderland punctuated by a short but intensely celebrated summer. A true adventurer’s wonderland, Finland offers something to do year round, including hiking, kayaking, and biking. Deep and densely forested acres are prime for wildlife watching, with bear and elk being just a few of the possible sightings. You can even journey into the wilderness in a real sleigh pulled by reindeer!

For visitors seeking more creature comforts, Helsinki is an intensely modern city filled with the latest design. The city is full of stylish (and delicious) restaurants, hipster bars, and outstanding architecture.

5. Germany

Germany ranks very high for world order and health and wellbeing. Rightfully so as Germany is often very involved in politics around the world.

The country has plenty of rich history, which is evident from its beautiful cities like Munich and Berlin. Each of its states has a different personality, which makes traveling Germany a particularly interesting one. What I love most about Germany is its wonderful beer and food culture. Nothing beats drinking a stein of beer along with a bratwurst and sauerkraut!

Many of Germany’s major cities are particularly lively in festive season – drawing in visitors with their Christmas markets, beer festivals and summer events. Munich’s Oktoberfest itself accounts for a big percentage of the annual visitors, while Berlin and Frankfurt attract mainly European city lovers. Here’s a look at the best of Germany.

6. Sweden

This Scandinavian country ranks extremely high in planet and climate, prosperity and equality as well as world order.

Sweden is known around the world for its style (hello IKEA) and visitors to the sophisticated country won’t be disappointed. Public spaces and private homes are decorative and tidy at the same time, with clean lines, practicality, and smart design in the forefront.   Even more striking than the manmade beauty is the stunning natural landscape.

Camping is a popular pastime, and probably the best way to leave the city and explore the countryside. Hiking, cycling, and skiing are major sports, and any activity that encourages reliance off the land and nature is very popular – like foraging and fishing.

7. Ireland

Despite being on the bottom of this list, Ireland ranks top for prosperity and equality, and second highest for health and wellbeing. Looks like its people are definitely well taken care of!

Ireland has plenty to offer visitors as well as the world. The historical significance of the country is a major draw for history buffs, offering everything from prehistoric monuments and monastic ruins to a more modern-day Titanic museum.

For those more interested in nature, Ireland really is as pretty as a postcard in person. The brooding beauty of Skellig Michael, Connemara, and of course the Irish countryside are particularly picturesque.

8. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is the top contributor in science and technology, leading the way in number of journal exports, international publications, and Nobel Prizes. London is a major draw for most travelers, with stunning architecture, an extremely diverse foodie scene, and of course famous monuments like Big Ben.

Other cities like Manchester also have a lot to offer, especially for football fans. But not all of the UK’s gems are hidden within cities. From exploring the beaches of Bournemouth, coast to coast biking, hiking the Welsh 3000, and canoeing the Severn, the UK has a lot of adventures awaiting.

9. Austria

Austria is the top contributor in world order, with high rankings also in science and technology. Austria has given the world many famous classical music composers, including Haydn, Mozart, Schubert, Johann Strauss II, and Bruckner. What else did Austria contribute? Redbull, Swarovski and the Sound of Music!

Beyond all that, Austria is a beautiful country worth visiting even if you’ve been to all the big-name European countries like France and Germany. With fairy-tale castles, picturesque towns and towering mountains, Austria is essentially the ‘Europe’ of many people’s dreams. It’s as alpine as Europe gets, with mountains that make you want to yodel out loud and patchwork pastures chiming with cowbells. Folk music echo through the valleys  and steins (giant jugs) of beer are served in centuries-old wooden A-roofed mountain huts. 

10. Norway

It’s no surprise that this wealthy Arctic nation ranks high on this do-good list. Norway is undoubtedly one of the most expensive countries to visit on the planet. So, is it worth it?   The landscape alone will make you scream YES!

The majestic fjords, grand glaciers, and serene mountains are unique sights to behold. Arctic animals like polar bears and reindeer are no longer confined to a zoo but rather roam wild through Norway’s dreamlike wilderness. Adventurers can trek through the Arctic, hike trails around the fjords, and join in on any number of winter sports. To escape the wild side and seek some sophistication, Norway’s smart cities, like Oslo, provide a warm contrast to the bone chilling cold of the wilderness.

The countries lowest on the totem pole and contributing the least to the world? According to the GCI it’s Libya, Iraq, and Vietnam.

Are any of these countries on your list to visit? Which one and why?

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