Rule of Law Index by Country 1998

Compare countries by Rule of Law percentile rank, reflecting confidence in laws, courts, police, property rights, and protection from crime and violence.

213 data points•Updated 12/13/2025•World•Worldwide Governance Indicators, World Bank (WB)•

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Complete Data Rankings

Rank
1	Austria	97.5 %
2	Australia	96.5 %
3	Canada	94.5 %
4	Cayman Islands	91.5 %
5	Bahamas	89 %
6	Barbados	87.5 %
7	Belgium	87 %
8	Bermuda	86.5 %
9	Andorra	85.5 %
10	Chile	84.5 %
11	Antigua and Barbuda	84 %
12	China, Hong Kong SAR	82.5 %
13	Cyprus	80.5 %
14	Czech Republic	74.5 %
15	Cabo Verde	69.5 %
16	Costa Rica	69 %
17	Botswana	68.5 %
18	Brunei Darussalam	65 %
19	Bahrain	63 %
20	China, Macao SAR	58.5 %
21	Benin	54 %
22	Bhutan	53 %
23	Argentina	50.5 %
24	Belize	48.5 %
25	Brazil	45 %
26	Bulgaria	44.5 %
27	Bolivia	44 %
28	Armenia	40 %
29	Croatia	39 %
30	China	36 %
31	Colombia	31 %
32	Bosnia and Herzegovina	30.5 %
33	Comoros	23 %
34	Belarus	22 %
35	Burkina Faso	20.5 %
36	Côte d'Ivoire	20 %
37	Albania	19.5 %
38	Cuba	16.5 %
39	Azerbaijan	15 %
40	Cameroon	14.5 %
41	Central African Republic	13.5 %
42	Cambodia	13 %
43	Chad	12 %
44	Algeria	11.5 %
45	Burundi	8.5 %
46	Afghanistan	2 %
47	American Samoa	NaN %
48	Angola	5.5 %
49	Anguilla	NaN %
50	Aruba	NaN %
51	Bangladesh	19 %
52	Congo	3 %
53	Congo, Democratic Republic of the	0.5 %
54	Cook Islands	NaN %
55	Finland	100 %
56	Denmark	98 %
57	Iceland	94 %
58	Germany	93.5 %
59	Ireland	93 %
60	France	91 %
61	Japan	90.5 %
62	Israel	83 %
63	French Guiana	81.5 %
64	Kiribati	80 %
65	Dominica	74 %
66	Hungary	73.5 %
67	Italy	73 %
68	Greece	71.5 %
69	Kuwait	67 %
70	Estonia	66 %
71	Grenada	63.5 %
72	Fiji	62.5 %
73	India	62 %
74	Jordan	61 %
75	Latvia	59 %
76	Lesotho	56.5 %
77	Gambia	51.5 %
78	Egypt	47.5 %
79	Jamaica	43 %
80	Guyana	41.5 %
81	Gabon	41 %
82	Lebanon	38.5 %
83	Ghana	37.5 %
84	Ecuador	34 %
85	Dominican Republic	33.5 %
86	Eritrea	32.5 %
87	Eswatini	31.5 %
88	Iran	29.5 %
89	El Salvador	29 %
90	Indonesia	27.5 %
91	Kyrgyzstan	25 %
92	Honduras	22.5 %
93	Ethiopia	21.5 %
94	Djibouti	21 %
95	Laos	18 %
96	Kenya	17.5 %
97	Guatemala	17 %
98	Kazakhstan	16 %
99	Georgia	11 %
100	Equatorial Guinea	9 %
101	Greenland	NaN %
102	Guam	NaN %
103	Guinea	8 %
104	Haiti	6.5 %
105	Iraq	4 %
106	Guinea-Bissau	1 %
107	Jersey	NaN %
108	Kosovo	NaN %
109	Norway	99.5 %
110	New Zealand	98.5 %
111	Luxembourg	97 %
112	Netherlands	95.5 %
113	Liechtenstein	92 %
114	Malta	89.5 %
115	Portugal	88.5 %
116	Martinique	86.5 %
117	Mauritius	83.5 %
118	Puerto Rico	81.5 %
119	Micronesia (Fed. States of)	80 %
120	Monaco	80 %
121	Nauru	80 %
122	Palau	80 %
123	Saint Kitts and Nevis	80 %
124	Saint Lucia	80 %
125	Poland	72.5 %
126	Lithuania	65.5 %
127	Oman	64 %
128	Malaysia	60.5 %
129	Mongolia	59.5 %
130	Namibia	58 %
131	Qatar	57.5 %
132	Morocco	55.5 %
133	Philippines	52.5 %
134	Nepal	52 %
135	Republic of Moldova	49.5 %
136	Romania	48 %
137	Panama	47 %
138	Marshall Islands	46.5 %
139	Maldives	45.5 %
140	Mali	43.5 %
141	North Macedonia	42 %
142	Madagascar	40.5 %
143	Malawi	38 %
144	Mauritania	37 %
145	Papua New Guinea	35.5 %
146	Mexico	35 %
147	Nicaragua	33 %
148	Niger	30 %
149	Peru	28 %
150	Montenegro	26 %
151	Pakistan	25.5 %
152	Mozambique	24.5 %
153	Paraguay	24 %
154	Russia	23.5 %
155	Libya	15.5 %
156	North Korea	14 %
157	Nigeria	12.5 %
158	Rwanda	6 %
159	Myanmar	4.5 %
160	Liberia	1.5 %
161	Niue	NaN %
162	Réunion	NaN %
163	Switzerland	99 %
164	Sweden	96 %
165	United Kingdom	95 %
166	United States	92.5 %
167	Spain	90 %
168	Singapore	88 %
169	Slovenia	85 %
170	Samoa	82 %
171	Saint Vincent and the Grenadines	80 %
172	San Marino	80 %
173	Tonga	80 %
174	Tuvalu	80 %
175	South Korea	72 %
176	Taiwan	71 %
177	Solomon Islands	70.5 %
178	United Arab Emirates	70 %
179	Seychelles	68 %
180	Uruguay	67.5 %
181	Trinidad and Tobago	66.5 %
182	Thailand	64.5 %
183	Vanuatu	61.5 %
184	Sao Tome and Principe	60 %
185	Slovakia	57 %
186	South Africa	56 %
187	Senegal	55 %
188	Sri Lanka	54.5 %
189	Saudi Arabia	53.5 %
190	Suriname	51 %
191	State of Palestine	50 %
192	Turkey	49 %
193	Tanzania	46 %
194	Tunisia	42.5 %
195	Vietnam	39.5 %
196	Zambia	36.5 %
197	Syrian Arab Republic	34.5 %
198	Uganda	32 %
199	Venezuela	28.5 %
200	Togo	27 %
201	Zimbabwe	26.5 %
202	Ukraine	18.5 %
203	Uzbekistan	10.5 %
204	Serbia	10 %
205	Sierra Leone	9.5 %
206	Yemen	7.5 %
207	Turkmenistan	7 %
208	Tajikistan	5 %
209	Timor-Leste	3.5 %
210	Sudan	2.5 %
211	Somalia	0 %
212	South Sudan	NaN %
213	United States Virgin Islands	NaN %

↑Top 10 Countries

Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.

↓Bottom 10 Countries

Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.

Analysis & Context

The "Rule of Law Index by Country" for 1998 provides vital insights into the legal and institutional frameworks across the globe. This index reflects the degree of confidence and adherence to laws, including the effectiveness of courts, police, property rights, and protection from crime and violence. Understanding how countries rank in this index offers a window into their governance quality and societal stability, impacting everything from economic performance to international relations.

Global Leaders in Rule of Law

In 1998, several countries stood out for their exceptional adherence to the rule of law. Finland topped the list with a perfect score of 100%, exemplifying robust legal frameworks and high public trust in its institutions. Following closely were Norway at 99.5%, Switzerland at 99%, and New Zealand at 98.5%. These nations are known for their transparent legal processes, accountable governance, and effective enforcement mechanisms, which are integral components of their societal fabric. Such high rankings in the Rule of Law Index typically correlate with higher levels of social trust, economic stability, and international cooperation.

Challenges in the Rule of Law

On the other end of the spectrum, the 1998 index reveals significant challenges in countries where the rule of law is weak. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, with a score of 0.5%, faces complex issues such as political instability, corruption, and inadequate legal protections. Other countries with low scores, including Guinea-Bissau (1%), Liberia (1.5%), and Afghanistan (2%), struggle with similar systemic problems. These nations often experience higher crime rates, lesser economic growth, and social unrest, which are further exacerbated by weak legal frameworks and limited government legitimacy. Addressing these challenges is crucial for improving governance and fostering development.

Regional Comparisons and Contrasts

The 1998 Rule of Law Index highlights notable regional variations. European countries dominate the top of the list, reflecting the continent's long-standing commitment to democratic institutions and legal principles. In contrast, many African and Asian countries are concentrated at the lower end of the spectrum. This disparity points to historical, economic, and political factors that influence the rule of law. For instance, European nations often have a history of stable governance and economic prosperity, whereas postcolonial states in Africa and Asia may still grapple with the legacies of colonial rule and internal conflicts.

Policy Impacts and Governance

Policy decisions and governance styles significantly impact a country's Rule of Law Index score. In 1998, countries with strong, inclusive, and transparent governance systems were rewarded with higher scores. This finding underscores the importance of policies that promote legal integrity, judicial independence, and corruption prevention. For example, Scandinavian countries, renowned for their commitment to equality and welfare, demonstrate how inclusive policies bolster legal adherence and public trust. Conversely, nations with authoritarian regimes or political turmoil often fall short in this index, highlighting the need for policy reforms that prioritize legal accountability and citizen engagement.

Historical Context and Long-term Trends

Examining the Rule of Law Index within a broader historical context reveals important long-term trends. Over the past decades leading up to 1998, many Western countries have consistently improved or maintained their high rankings, reflecting stable political environments and mature legal systems. In contrast, countries experiencing rapid political changes or conflicts have seen fluctuations in their scores, often struggling to establish consistent legal frameworks. Understanding these trends is essential for predicting future developments and guiding international efforts towards strengthening the rule of law worldwide.

In conclusion, the 1998 Rule of Law Index by Country provides a snapshot of global governance and legal frameworks, highlighting both achievements and challenges. As the world continues to evolve, fostering the rule of law remains a critical goal for ensuring justice, peace, and prosperity across nations. By learning from both high-performing and struggling countries, policymakers and international organizations can work towards creating a more equitable and lawful global society.

Insights by country

France

In 1998, France achieved a remarkable Rule of Law Index score of 91%, ranking 19th out of 213 countries. This high score reflects the country's strong legal framework, effective judicial processes, and respect for fundamental rights and freedoms.

The robust Rule of Law in France during this period can be attributed to several factors, including a well-established legal system, a commitment to democratic principles, and active civil society participation. Additionally, France's extensive legal protections and mechanisms to ensure accountability contribute to its favorable position in the global context.

As a member of the European Union, France also benefits from shared legal standards and cooperation with other member states, which further enhances its rule of law environment. This ranking is indicative of France's historical commitment to the principles of justice and equality before the law.

Finland

In 1998, Finland achieved an exceptional position in the global context by ranking 1st out of 213 countries in the Rule of Law Index, with a perfect score of 100%. This remarkable performance underscores Finland's robust legal framework, efficient judicial system, and strong adherence to the rule of law, which are critical components of a well-functioning democracy.

Several factors contribute to Finland's high ranking in the Rule of Law Index, including a strong emphasis on human rights, transparency in government operations, and an effective law enforcement system. The country's commitment to education and social welfare has also fostered a culture of respect for the law among its citizens.

Additionally, Finland's longstanding tradition of democratic governance and low levels of corruption further bolster its legal integrity, making it a model for other nations. Interestingly, Finland has consistently ranked among the top countries globally in various governance and quality of life indices, reflecting its stable and equitable society.

Italy

In 1998, Italy ranked 55th out of 213 countries in the Rule of Law Index, with a score of 73%. This ranking indicates a relatively strong adherence to the principles of rule of law compared to many other nations, reflecting a legal framework that supports rights and justice.

The score and ranking can be attributed to Italy's established judicial system, which, despite facing challenges such as corruption and inefficiency, provides a legal structure for protecting individual rights and enforcing laws. Factors influencing this performance include historical legal traditions, the presence of a civil law system, and ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing judicial efficiency.

Interestingly, Italy's position in the Rule of Law Index suggests a contrast with some of its Mediterranean neighbors, who may have lower scores due to varying degrees of political stability and governance challenges. This highlights Italy's relatively robust legal institutions during a period marked by significant political changes, including economic challenges and social unrest.

Bulgaria

In 1998, Bulgaria held the 112th position out of 213 countries in the Rule of Law Index, with a score of 44.5%. This ranking reflects significant challenges in the country's legal and institutional frameworks, which were still undergoing substantial reform following the end of communist rule in 1989.

The relatively low score indicated issues such as corruption, lack of judicial independence, and inadequate enforcement of laws, which were prevalent at the time. These factors were compounded by a transition to a market economy, leading to social and economic instability that hindered the development of a robust legal system.

Additionally, the political landscape during this period was marked by frequent changes in government and policy, which further complicated efforts to establish a consistent rule of law. Such conditions not only affected domestic governance but also Bulgaria's aspirations for integration into European structures, which required adherence to higher standards of legal integrity.

Sweden

In 1998, Sweden achieved a remarkable Rule of Law Index score of 96%, ranking 9th out of 213 countries. This high score reflects Sweden's strong commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice, transparency, and accountability within its legal system.

Several factors contribute to Sweden's impressive Rule of Law Index, including a well-established legal framework, an independent judiciary, and low levels of corruption. The Swedish government has consistently prioritized human rights, civil liberties, and equal access to justice, which further reinforces the strength of its rule of law.

Additionally, Sweden's social welfare system, which promotes equality and social inclusion, plays a crucial role in maintaining societal stability and trust in legal institutions. The country is often noted for its high levels of civic engagement and public trust in government, which are essential components of a robust rule of law.

Mozambique

Mozambique ranked 152nd out of 213 countries in the Rule of Law Index in 1998, reflecting a challenging legal and institutional landscape. The country achieved a Rule of Law Index value of 24.5%, indicating significant deficiencies in areas such as judicial independence, accountability, and legal certainty.

This low ranking can be attributed to various factors, including the aftermath of the civil war that ended in 1992, which left the legal framework and institutions in disarray. Additionally, issues such as corruption, weak law enforcement, and limited access to justice for the population further compounded the challenges in establishing a robust rule of law.

Furthermore, Mozambique's struggle with governance issues was exacerbated by its economic conditions, including high levels of poverty and a lack of resources to support effective governance. These elements have historically hindered the development of a fair and efficient legal system.

Iraq

In 1998, Iraq ranked 193rd out of 213 countries on the Rule of Law Index, reflecting a dismal score of 4%. This low ranking indicates significant challenges in the country's legal framework and governance, highlighting issues such as the lack of an independent judiciary, widespread corruption, and the absence of basic civil liberties.

The catastrophic impacts of authoritarian rule, particularly under Saddam Hussein's regime, contributed to this poor standing. Factors such as political repression, human rights abuses, and the absence of effective legal protections played a crucial role in undermining the rule of law during this period.

Moreover, the socio-political climate was exacerbated by economic sanctions and ongoing conflicts, which further destabilized the country and diminished the public's trust in legal institutions. The situation in Iraq exemplifies how governance issues can severely affect legal and civil order, leading to a pervasive environment of insecurity and injustice.

Hungary

In 1998, Hungary achieved a notable Rule of Law Index of 73.5%, ranking 54th out of 213 countries. This ranking reflects a relatively strong commitment to the principles of law and governance, especially in the context of post-communist transition, where many Central and Eastern European nations were grappling with establishing legal frameworks.

The high index value can be attributed to several factors, including the implementation of democratic reforms following the end of communist rule in 1989, which led to improved legal protections and an independent judiciary. Additionally, Hungary's efforts to align its legal standards with those of the European Union, particularly in the years leading up to its accession in 2004, bolstered its rule of law.

Interestingly, Hungary's position in the Rule of Law Index also highlights the broader regional trends in Central Europe, where many countries experienced similar improvements in legal governance during this period. However, the challenges of corruption and political influence over the judiciary have continued to affect the rule of law in subsequent years.

Saint Lucia

In 1998, Saint Lucia achieved a notable Rule of Law Index score of 80%, ranking 47th out of 213 countries. This score reflects a strong adherence to legal principles, indicating a relatively effective judicial system and respect for the rule of law compared to other nations.

The high ranking can be attributed to several factors, including a stable political environment, a relatively low level of corruption, and a commitment to democratic governance. These elements contribute to a legal framework that supports the protection of citizens' rights and the enforcement of laws.

Additionally, Saint Lucia's legal system, which is based on English common law, has historically provided a structured approach to justice, promoting fairness and accountability. This period also coincided with efforts to enhance the legal infrastructure, which further solidified the country’s standing in the Rule of Law Index.

Luxembourg

In 1998, Luxembourg achieved a remarkable Rule of Law Index score of 97%, placing it 7th out of 213 countries. This high ranking reflects the country's strong legal framework, effective governance, and the protection of fundamental rights.

The strong performance in the Rule of Law Index can be attributed to Luxembourg's well-established legal institutions, a robust judiciary, and a high level of transparency in government operations. Additionally, the country's commitment to upholding human rights and the rule of law has fostered a stable and secure environment for its citizens.

As a small but prosperous nation, Luxembourg has maintained a strong economy, which supports its legal and institutional frameworks. The country is also known for its strong adherence to international law and cooperation with various international organizations, which further enhances its standing in global governance.

Data Source

Worldwide Governance Indicators, World Bank (WB)

A global compilation of data capturing household, business, and citizen perceptions of the quality of governance in more than 200 economies.

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Historical Data by Year

Explore Rule of Law Index by Country data across different years. Compare trends and see how statistics have changed over time.

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