Determining the "most loved" nationality is subjective and can vary greatly depending on individual perspectives and criteria. However, one way to assess the desirability or perceived value of a nationality is through comprehensive indices that measure various factors contributing to its quality.
The Quality of Nationality Index (QNI)
One such measure is the Quality of Nationality Index (QNI), developed by Professor Dr. Dimitry Kochenov and the global citizenship and residence advisory firm Henley & Partners. The QNI objectively measures the value of nationalities worldwide based on a wide range of internal and external factors.
- Internal Factors: These relate to the peace and stability, economic strength, and human development within a country.
- External Factors: These measure the freedom of movement and settlement opportunities that a nationality offers its citizens abroad.
A high QNI score suggests a nationality offers its holders greater opportunities, security, and stability, making it highly valuable and potentially very desirable – or, in a practical sense, "loved" for the benefits it confers.
QNI 2018 Rankings: France Takes the Lead
According to the provided reference:
"The Quality of Nationality Index (QNI) from global citizenship and residence advisory firm Henley & Partners has placed France in pole position with a score of 81.7 per cent, marginally ahead of Germany, which was knocked off the top spot for the first time in seven years, with a score of 81.6 per cent.27-Apr-2018"
This indicates that, based on the QNI assessment in 2018, the French nationality was considered the highest quality nationality globally. While this doesn't directly measure subjective affection or popularity, it reflects the extensive benefits and opportunities associated with holding French citizenship at that time, which can certainly contribute to its high regard and desirability.
Here's a snapshot of the top rankings from the reference:
| Rank | Country | QNI Score (2018) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | France | 81.7% |
| 2 | Germany | 81.6% |
Germany had previously held the top position for seven consecutive years before being slightly surpassed by France in 2018.
Why High Quality Can Mean High Regard
The factors measured by the QNI contribute significantly to the value a nationality offers its citizens. For example, French citizens enjoy:
- Extensive Travel Freedoms: Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a large number of countries.
- Settlement Rights: The ability to live, work, and study freely within the European Union and other associated territories.
- Strong Economic Opportunities: Access to a developed economy.
- High Human Development: Benefits from strong healthcare, education, and quality of life indicators within France.
These practical benefits make the French nationality highly valuable on a global scale. While "loved" is a feeling, possessing a nationality that offers such substantial advantages is undoubtedly highly prized and sought after by its holders and potentially by those seeking to acquire it.
Therefore, while "most loved" is open to interpretation, based on the objective measure of the Quality of Nationality Index in 2018, French nationality was assessed as the highest quality, making it highly desirable and valued.
