The latest Henley Passport Index for 2024 has been unveiled, showcasing France as the frontrunner with visa-free access to 194 countries. However, India faces a setback, slipping one notch to the 85th position.
India’s Passport Dilemma:
Despite an increase in visa-free access to 62 countries, India slides to 85th place. Comparatively, its neighbors Maldives and Saudi Arabia surpass India in passport power.
Regional Dynamics:
Pakistan maintains its position at 106, while Bangladesh experiences a slight decline from 101 to 102 in 2024.
Global Leaders:
France leads the pack, joined by Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain, showcasing the power of their passports on the global stage.
Noteworthy Performances:
The Maldives, ranked 58th, highlights its passport strength with access to 96 countries, signaling regional prowess.
Geopolitical Implications:
Passport strength is a key indicator of a nation’s soft power, facilitating global mobility and diplomatic relations.
China’s Rise and US Position:
China sees a modest increase in ranking, reflecting efforts to enhance tourism post-pandemic. Meanwhile, the US moves up to 6th place amidst debates over immigration policies.
Henley Passport Index Methodology:
Based on exclusive data from the International Air Transport Authority (IATA), the index offers insights into global mobility trends and passport strength evaluations.
Global Mobility Trends:
Over the past two decades, global mobility has surged, with individuals now enjoying visa-free access to an average of 111 countries, marking a significant evolution in travel freedom.
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