5 Most Gender and Income Equal Countries in the World

In this article, we look at the 5 most gender and income-equal countries in the world. If you want to take a detailed look at our analysis of the impact of gender and income inequality on the national economy, you can read 25 Most Gender and Income-Equal Countries in the World.

5. Iceland

Average Ranking: 5.5

The biggest reason behind Iceland’s ranking on the list of the most gender-equal countries in the world is the legal frameworks currently in place in the country. In 2018, Iceland became the first country in the world to pass a law that required companies to prove that they paid men and women equally.

4. Sweden

Average Ranking: 4.3 

Sweden deploys a wide range of redistribution policies through taxation and transfers, which make it one of the most income-equal countries in the world. The country also shows a rising rate of female employment, which further bolsters equity in terms of income, making the country perform significantly well in domains of both income and gender equality.

3. Switzerland

Average Ranking: 3.6

GII Ranking: 3rd

The gender gap in Switzerland is constantly getting smaller, mainly due to better political representation. Switzerland is another country where legal regulations require businesses to have a significant female representation. One of the biggest drivers of this change in the country has been the public protests that demanded better rights for women across the board.

2. Denmark 

Average Ranking: 3.6

GII Ranking: 1st

Denmark ranks first on the GII, making the state a global example for gender equality policies. Gender equality has formed a significant basis for the Danish welfare state, ranking the state as the most gender-equal country in the entire world. Female representation in the Danish workforce is among one of the highest in the world. The government has also taken a leading stance in fighting gender-based violence, especially in conflict situations.

1. Norway

Average Ranking: 1.6

Norway ranks on top in terms of the most gender and income-equal countries in the world. This is due to the country’s 2nd rank on GII and 1st rank among income-equal countries. The economy of Norway is built on policies that counter rising market inequality, which helps it stay an income-equal country. Norway has also passed significant regulations that make it a highly gender-equal country, especially in terms of the workforce. Due to these reasons, many consider Norway one of the world’s best countries to raise a family. 

Disclosure: None. Check out 20 Most Feminist Countries in the World and 25 Countries with the Highest Income Inequality in the World.