New Zealand tops Remote’s Global Life-Work Balance Index
CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES — New Zealand has been recognized as the top nation for balancing personal and professional life in Remote’s Global Life-Work Balance Index.
The index evaluated the 60 highest GDP countries based on annual leave, sick pay, maternity leave, healthcare, and overall happiness.
New Zealand outperformed all others with an overall index score of 79.35, boasting a generous annual leave allowance, a high rate of sick pay, and a universal healthcare system. Spain scored 75.55 and was hailed for its extended annual leave and short workweeks.
Third place went to France with 75.34 points, where the average working week is just 25.6 hours, and workers have a legal right to disconnect from work-related communications after hours. Australia and Denmark rounded out the top five, scoring 73.71 and 73.67, respectively.
Other notable rankings include Norway (73.05), the Netherlands (69.14), the United Kingdom (69.07), Canada (67.91), and Brazil (67.73).
Notably, the United States lagged at 53rd place due to the absence of a universal healthcare system, statutory annual leave, and sick pay.
Europe leads in life-work balance among regions, with six European countries making the top ten.
Meanwhile, workers in Australia and New Zealand were found to be the most generously paid, and Canada was ranked the most LGBTQ+ friendly nation.
