The Atlantic Council brought together policy experts and international leaders to discuss the future of global freedom and prosperity following the release of a new index measuring economic freedom, political freedom and the rule of law across 171 countries.
Experts say the findings serve as more than just a global ranking. They highlight how strong institutions and the rule of law create opportunities for economic growth, while also offering lessons for policymakers in the United States and abroad.
“Core basic things that we take for granted in the United States don’t necessarily exist around the world,” said National Outreach Director Jim Richardson. “If we can encourage other countries to take those steps, that’s where economic growth gets unlocked.”
This year’s report found that political freedom and the rule of law continue to decline globally, and economic freedom has remained relatively stable since the post-pandemic recovery. Experts warn that slowing progress in these areas could have long-term consequences for prosperity around the world.
For attendees like George Washington University senior Anahita Kashani Gregg, the discussion reinforced the importance of international development.
“I’ve really come to believe that working toward development is the most important thing we can do for peace and prosperity for everybody in the world,” Gregg said.
