Global Rankings Highlight Geographic Divide in Women's Wellbeing
The latest Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Index ranks 181 countries based on women's inclusion, justice, and security. Nordic countries, including Denmark, Iceland, and Norway, top the list, reflecting strong performance in gender equality. In contrast, countries like Afghanistan, Yemen, and South Sudan rank lowest, often due to conflict and political instability. The index reveals that over 70% of women in the lowest-ranked countries live near armed conflict, facing heightened risks of displacement and gender-based violence. The rankings underscore the impact of conflict on women's access to justice and maternal health.