Country explorer: Israel

Israel's economy has undergone significant advancement, setting it apart from its regional peers, with a shift towards higher GDP per capita, a reduction in poverty, a generally decreasing unemployment rate, and relatively controlled inflation rates.

Israel has experienced significant population growth, maintained a relatively high fertility rate compared to other high-income countries, and seen consistent improvements in life expectancy, illustrating unique demographic resilience and growth dynamics amidst its peers.

Israel has demonstrated a consistent provision of basic needs, achieving near-universal access to clean cooking fuels, electricity, and safely managed drinking water and sanitation, positioning it at the forefront among high-income countries in terms of basic service provision.

Israel has shown significant improvements in human development, characterized by steady increases in its Human Development Index, a marked decrease in child mortality rates, a high and stable literacy rate, and an enhancement in the quality and duration of education, positioning it favorably among both regional neighbors and high-income countries globally.

Israel has markedly improved its environmental and energy landscape, notably transitioning towards cleaner energy sources, demonstrated by a substantial increase in solar energy production and a notable reduction in per capita CO₂ emissions, alongside efforts to conserve its limited freshwater resources and manage forest areas despite its challenging geographical and climatic conditions, distinguishing it as a nation actively pursuing sustainability and innovation within its environmental constraints.

Israel has showcased remarkable growth in technology and innovation, with significant increases in internet usage, mobile phone subscriptions, research & development spending as a percentage of GDP, and scientific publications per capita, solidifying its reputation as a leading global innovator.

Israel has seen a distinctive and significant inclusion of a higher share of its population born abroad, steady improvements in self-reported life satisfaction, and substantial progress in reducing gender inequality, all while managing a growing dependency ratio, showcasing its unique societal resilience and integration amidst challenges common to high-income countries.

Israel has experienced a gradual decline in the rule of law and political civil liberties, alongside fluctuating perceptions of corruption and press freedom, setting it apart from high-income peers which typically show stable or improving governance indicators.