Iceland is in first place in the world for gender equality, according to a new study conducted by the World Economic Forum (WEF).
Norway previously held the top slot, but fell to third behind Finland. Sweden has the fourth position. The report also credits South Africa and Lesotho with “making great strides” in closing their gender gaps, and the Phillipines continues to lead Asia. Yemen came in last.
All told, 134 countries were examined. The report notes that “the three highest-ranking countries—Iceland, Finland and Norway—have closed a little over 80% of their gender gaps, while the lowest ranking country—Yemen—has closed only around 46% of its gender gap.” Iceland’s position was gained through the sheer numbers of women taking part in education and employment, as well as the high level of gender equality within the government.
Also of note in the report: Iceland has one of the lowest infant mortality rates in the world, at 5th place. Estonia has the lowest, followed by Spain, Switzerland and Portugal.