Many think of the U.S. as the country with the most freedom, but you would be surprised to learn this isn’t exactly true. In this post, we explore 18 freedoms that citizens of other countries get to enjoy but that Americans can only dream of.
Universal Healthcare Access
Many developed countries, like Canada, ensure universal healthcare access for all citizens, even those with the lowest incomes. The opposite is true in America, with many not being able to afford health insurance without employment. Britannica states that the U.S. is the only country among the 37 Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) nations that does not have universal healthcare.
Paid Parental Leave Policies
It’s mandatory for companies to offer extended paid leave for new parents in countries like Sweden. This promotes work-life balance and ensures women can actively participate in the workforce. If the U.S. adopted this policy, it could have many positive effects on the economy and society. Even McKinsey & Company agrees that offering both maternity and paternity leave could have benefits to employers and society.
Comprehensive Gun Control Measures
You wouldn’t believe how much harder it is to buy a gun outside the U.S. The strict gun control laws in countries like Japan and Australia ensure that only those with a sound mind have access to firearms, especially the more fatal machine guns.
Free or Affordable Higher Education Opportunities
What would you say if I told you you could get a degree in Germany for about $3,500? It probably sounds impossible, but it’s very true, and it has had a real impact on social mobility in Germany. According to Top Universities, “In 2014, Germany’s 16 states abolished tuition fees for undergraduate students at all public German universities.”
Strict Online Privacy Laws
The European Union is famous for giving big tech a hard time, and it’s for a good reason. This crackdown on data has protected European individuals and businesses from the prying eyes of companies like Meta. We have yet to see if the U.S. will ever stand up to these companies, which seem to get much stronger every day.
Legalized Recreational Cannabis
Recreational cannabis legalization in countries like Canada and Uruguay has allowed their citizens to enjoy the effects of the plant without worrying about the law. Additionally, it has created opportunities for suppliers and has also allowed further advancement in the use of cannabis for health reasons.
Proactive Climate Change Policies
Scandinavian countries like Sweden and Norway have managed to come up with proactive climate change policies. The collaborative efforts between the government and citizens to combat climate change will likely yield positive results in the years to come. Hopefully, the U.S. will get on track and implement similar strategies.
Strong Workers’ Rights
Certain countries have much stronger workers’ rights and stricter labor laws in comparison to the United States. This has a strong impact on job satisfaction and overall employee well-being. Unfortunately, there are many challenges to enhancing workers’ rights in the U.S.
Stricter Animal Welfare Regulations
Animal welfare standards globally tend to be stricter than those in the U.S. Countries like Switzerland understand the positive implications of strict animal welfare regulations. The U.S. could explore setting new standards that citizens should follow when dealing with animals.
Gender Pay Equality Measures
Gender pay equality initiatives in countries like Iceland have been successful in boosting their economies. This has both economic and social benefits, as they help in the goal of gender pay equality. Additionally, they have been instrumental in bringing more women into the workforce.
Lower Drinking Age Limits
If you love a drink, you might have been a little disappointed to wait until age 21 to have your first one. Drinking age limits in countries like Australia, France, Italy, and Ireland are much lower, at only 18 years. Lowering the drinking age limit could reduce illegal underage drinking in the U.S.
Accessible Public Transportation
Efficient public transportation systems, as exemplified by countries like Japan, China, and Britain, play a major role in shaping urban mobility. Japan’s well-organized and accessible transit systems contribute to efficient daily commuting, reducing traffic congestion and environmental impact.
Strict Corporate Accountability Laws
Global corporate accountability laws, like those in the United Kingdom, ensure ethical business practices and transparency. Strict regulations govern corporate conduct, fostering a sense of responsibility toward stakeholders and the community. The U.S. could consider strengthening regulation to encourage a higher sense of corporate social responsibility.
Shorter Work Weeks and Longer Vacations
Longer vacation allowances have been shown to contribute to reduced burnout rates and improved mental health among employees. Countries like the U.K., with a minimum of 20 days of paid leave, report much lower levels of burnout. Implementing similar policies in the U.S. involves addressing challenges related to cultural expectations and productivity norms.
Comprehensive Social Safety Nets
In countries like Sweden, social welfare ensures that all citizens are supported in times of need. These safety nets play a crucial role in reducing poverty and inequality in society. To enhance the U.S. social safety net system, potential improvements could start with increased accessibility and expanded coverage for the most vulnerable groups.
Access to Assisted Suicide
The right-to-die perspectives vary globally on a personal and political level. Engaging in open and informed dialogues about assisted suicide could be a positive first step in addressing ethical concerns, respecting individual autonomy, and designing compassionate end-of-life care policies.
Strictly Regulated Political Campaign Financing
Strict campaign financing rules ensure democratic integrity by encouraging a level playing field for political candidates. Enforcing these regulations could have potential benefits, including reduced political influence over money and fair representation. Adopting comparable measures in the U.S. could create a more transparent and accountable electoral system.
Limited Presidential Powers
Looking at how much power leaders have in different countries helps us see the differences. If we limit a president’s power, it can positively affect how the country is run. We need to figure out the right balance between a president’s authority and our democratic principles in the U.S. for a strong and fair government.
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