Country explorer: Norway

Norway has distinguished itself with strong economic growth, consistently high GDP per capita alongside low unemployment rates, and controlled inflation, reflecting societal wealth, stability, and effective management of its natural resources when compared to its high-income country peers.

Norway has experienced significant demographic changes characterized by steady population growth, substantial net migration gains, a relatively high fertility rate compared to many high-income countries, and increasing life expectancy, reflecting broader trends of societal aging and diversification.

Norway has consistently ensured near-universal access to clean fuels for cooking, electricity, safely managed drinking water, and sanitation facilities, exemplifying its commitment to high living standards and environmental sustainability, in line with its Nordic counterparts.

Norway has experienced significant improvement in human development as reflected by a steady increase in the Human Development Index, a consistent reduction in child mortality rates, high and stable literacy rates, and enhancement in average learning-adjusted years of schooling, positioning itself among the top nations globally and highlighting its successful focus on health, education, and living standards.

Norway has significantly reduced its per capita CO2 emissions, achieving one of the lowest levels among its high-income peers, while also transitioning its electricity production towards renewable sources, particularly hydropower, which complements its abundant renewable freshwater resources and expansive forest area, reflecting a national commitment to sustainability and environmental preservation.

Norway has demonstrated consistent growth in internet usage, mobile subscriptions, research and development spending, and scientific publishing, indicating a robust commitment to digital inclusion, technological advancement, and innovation, parallel to its Nordic neighbors.

Norway has experienced a notable increase in its immigrant population, sustained high levels of life satisfaction, progressive reductions in gender inequality, and a steady rise in age dependency ratios, reflecting broader trends of globalization, societal contentment, gender equality progress, and demographic shifts in aging similar to those seen in other high-income countries.

Norway has consistently exhibited strong metrics in governance indicators such as rule of law, corruption perception, political civil liberties, and press freedom, maintaining its position as a global leader and reflecting the stable and transparent nature shared by its Nordic counterparts.