In January 2026, the inaugural Responsible Nations Index (RNI) was released, placing the United States at #66 out of 154 countries
A new global index was recently launched in New Delhi,Developed by the World Intellectual Foundation (WIF) in collaboration with Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and IIM Mumbai, the index marks a shift from traditional GDP-focused rankings. Instead, it evaluates nations based on how responsibly they exercise their power toward their citizens, the global community, and the environment.
How Responsibly Do Nations Act their actions both domestically and internationally.
Here’s a look at thisThe world today is grappling with conflict, climate crisis, and growing inequalities. Yet, global rankings still measure nations largely by power and prosperity. The responsible nations index seeks to change that narrative,asking a more fundamental question.
The responsible nations index presents a new way of RESPONSIBLE assess in global conduct beyond economic strength or military might.
RNI 2026: Key Rankings
| Rank | Country |
|---|---|
| 1 | Singapore |
| 2 | Switzerland |
| 3 | Denmark |
| 16 | India |
| 25 | United Kingdom |
| 66 | United States |
| 68 | China |
| 154 | Central African Republic |
Purpose of index
this is a strong message because it’s not only about balance of power it’s about accountability and sovereignty of nations but sovereign nations means a nation which is responsible this is a new paradigm.
where now nations will be looked at from the point of view of how responsible they are
the responsibility is not just onefold it’s not just internally how responsible they are it’s a it’s a whole new as said a whole new paradigm which is
How responsible are you towards your people
How responsible are you towards the other countries
How responsible are you towards the environment
The Three Core Dimensions
The index assesses countries using 58 indicators across three primary pillars:
- Internal Responsibility: Focuses on ethical governance, social justice, and the well-being of citizens.
- Environmental Responsibility: Measures climate action, sustainability, and ecological stewardship.
- External Responsibility: Evaluates contributions to global peace, humanitarian engagement, and international cooperation.
Why the US is at #66
While the US remains a global economic and military leader, the RNI suggests that “power without responsibility is unsustainable.” The lower ranking for major powers like the US and China indicates that their global influence hasn’t always translated into the high scores for sustainability or ethical stewardship required by this specific framework.
Conclusion:
it aims to influence policy not just perception drawing from credible global data and rooted in India’s philosophical ethos like “Vasu dev Kutumbukam”.
The index offers a more balanced global lens at a time when responsibility is as critical as PAR. The responsible nations index offers a reflective mirror to nation wide.
Responsible Nations’ Index