The least racist countries in the world in 2026 include Denmark, Finland, New Zealand, the Netherlands, and Canada.
Racial equity is a crucial measure of a country’s social progress and overall inclusivity. A racially equitable society is one where everyone, regardless of race, is given the opportunity to thrive. This is done by addressing systemic inequalities and disparities that have historically affected disadvantaged groups.
While no country can be objectively identified as racism-free, current rankings instead compare specific indicators, such as perceived racial equity, attitudes toward neighbors of another race, reported experiences of discrimination, and anti-discrimination protections. These measures often produce very different results.
This article explores the top 10 least racist countries in 2026 using data from World Population Review (WPR). Expats considering residency frequently ask about racism/discrimination when choosing where to relocate. Our research for this piece is particularly valuable for our audience who are expats from specific regions who want to know how inclusive different countries are.
Least Racist Countries – Key Takeaways
How Do You Measure a Country’s Racism?
Measuring racism across countries is difficult because racism cannot be reduced to a single number. It can appear through personal attitudes, hate crimes, workplace or housing discrimination, institutional practices, and unequal social outcomes. A country may also perform well on one measure while performing poorly on another.
The World Values Survey measures social, political, and cultural attitudes across countries. One question asks respondents which groups they would not want as neighbors, including “people of a different race.” A lower percentage selecting this option may indicate greater racial tolerance, but it does not measure experiences such as employment discrimination, racial profiling, or institutional racism.
The 2024 Best Countries report produced by U.S. News & World Report with the Wharton School and WPP’s BAV Group, used responses from nearly 17,000 people across 36 countries to rank how 89 countries were perceived across different attributes, including racial equity. However, this is a perception-based ranking: Respondents evaluated countries based on their impressions, and they did not necessarily live in the countries they rated.
The ranking in this article are from the Best Countries racial equity results reproduced by World Population Review. The countries mentioned are those ranked highest for perceived racial equity, rather than those proven to have the least amount of racism.
Top 10 Least Racist Countries
According to World Population Review, here are the top 10 least racist countries in descending order.
1. Denmark
Denmark has enacted strong anti-discrimination laws, including the Act on Ethnic Equal Treatment (2003) and the Act on Prohibition against Differential Treatment on the Labor Market. Institutions such as the Danish Institute for Human Rights and the Danish Board of Equal Treatment work to address cases of discrimination and provide guidance on prevention.
Danish society traditionally values human rights and social democracy, striving to build a fair and egalitarian society based on shared values and opportunities.
However, while progress has been made in promoting tolerance, challenges persist. In 2022, the European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) expressed concern about Denmark’s “parallel society” policies, forced evictions, and discrimination against Muslims and people with migration backgrounds. In 2024, ECRI noted that Denmark had not implemented two of their priority recommendations.
Despite the country’s high ranking, pockets of racial discrimination still exist. On 18 December 2025, the European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruled that Denmark’s law on parallel societies (known as the “ghetto law”) is incompatible with the EU’s directive on equal treatment. ECJ reiterates that the right to equal treatment regardless of ethnic background is a fundamental principle that EU member states must respect in their country’s legislation.
2. Finland
Finland’s Constitution and the Non-Discrimination Act prohibit discrimination based on ethnicity, nationality, and religion. The government upholds a Government Action Plan to Combat Racism and Promote Equality, with the Non-Discrimination Ombudsman and advisory board playing key roles in this effort.
While the population is predominantly ethnically Finnish, the country has long recognized the rights of minority groups such as the Sámi Roma, and Swedish-speaking Finns. Efforts continue to address historical injustices and improve protections for these communities.
Immigration has increased Finland’s diversity in recent years, and the government promotes work-related immigration and integration through various support programs. However, challenges remain, as some groups, particularly the Roma and Somali communities, continue to face prejudice.
3. New Zealand
New Zealand has a diverse population, shaped by a long history of immigration, which includes European, Asian, and Pacific peoples.
The government actively promotes social cohesion through policies that foster inclusion and belonging, with the Treaty of Waitangi serving as a foundational document guiding relations between the Crown and Māori.
The country is committed to addressing inequalities and promoting equity, particularly for Māori and other minority groups. A strong legal framework, including the Human Rights Act 1993, exists to combat racism and discrimination.
While New Zealand is known for its tolerant and welcoming attitudes toward different cultures and religions, challenges persist, particularly in addressing systemic discrimination against Māori and other minorities, according to Amnesty International.
4. Netherlands
The Netherlands has a strong legal framework against discrimination. Article 1 of the Dutch Constitution guarantees equal treatment, while the Equal Treatment Act prohibits discrimination on grounds including race and nationality.
People who experience discrimination can report it to local anti-discrimination services or request an assessment from the Netherlands Institute for Human Rights. The National Coordinator against Discrimination and Racism also coordinates government efforts to address any discrimination issues.
However, these legal protections do not mean there are zero incidences of racism in the Netherlands. A 2026 ECRI report identified continuing structural discrimination affecting people of African descent, anti-Muslim prejudice, and discriminatory profiling.
5. Canada
Canada has a commitment to multiculturalism that is enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (1982), which prohibits discrimination based on race, national or ethnic origin, color, and religion.
Furthermore, the Multiculturalism Act (1988) reinforces this by promoting the preservation of Canada’s diverse cultural heritage and ensuring social equality for all, including Indigenous peoples.
Provincial and territorial human rights laws provide additional protections against discrimination. Diversity is a core value in Canada, with the government actively promoting inclusion and equity.
The country has a long history of welcoming immigrants, contributing to a richly diverse population. This can particularly be seen through the country’s inviting immigration programs, such as the permanent residency and business immigration programs.
6. Belgium
Belgium has comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, notably the Anti-Racism Act of 1981 and the Anti-Discrimination Act of 2007, which prohibit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, nationality, and religion.
The country also adheres to EU-wide human rights standards. Independent institutions like the Interfederal Center for Equal Opportunities and Opposition to Racism and Discrimination actively fight discrimination while promoting equal opportunities in the country.
Belgium is home to a diverse population, including large communities of people who are of Moroccan, Turkish, Congolese, and Sub-Saharan African descent. In many urban areas, multiculturalism is a part of daily life, and the government has implemented integration programs to support immigrants.
7. Sweden
Sweden has a strong reputation for tolerance and has historically been an outspoken critic of racism and colonialism. The country’s Discrimination Act prohibits discrimination connected to ethnicity, religion, and other protected characteristics. The Equality Ombudsman promotes equal rights, monitors compliance, and assists people who report discrimination.
Swedish society values ethnocultural diversity, viewing it as something that enriches the majority culture. Governmental policies emphasize inclusion and cultural preservation, ensuring immigrants can maintain their cultural identities while integrating into Swedish society.
The country also takes a “post-racial” approach, aiming to be color-blind in matters of discrimination and social justice. While this is meant to promote equality, some critics argue that it can obscure systemic racism and hinder meaningful racial discussions.
Despite shifts in and restrictions to Sweden’s historically welcoming immigration policy, the country continues to uphold its tradition of tolerance and integration. It continues to have some of the most progressive integration policies globally.
8. Norway
Norway’s culture is deeply rooted in egalitarianism, with a strong welfare state ensuring access to education, healthcare, and social services for all residents, including immigrants.
Openness, equality, and equal rights are core cultural values, which are reflected in daily life.
The Equality and Anti-Discrimination Act entered into force on 1 January 2018 and prohibits direct and indirect discrimination based on ethnicity, including national origin, descent, skin color and language.
Norwegians have a strong sense of history and civic engagement, valuing tolerance, respect, and equality. The European Commission against Racism and Intolerance (ECRI) acknowledges Norway’s progress in combating racism but highlights concern over unreported hate speech and a public debate often influenced by xenophobic and anti-migration rhetoric.
9. Iceland
Iceland is generally considered a tolerant and inclusive society, with a strong emphasis on human rights, equality, and social welfare. The country has legal protections in place to combat discrimination and promote diversity.
Iceland’s Constitution and the Act on Equal Treatment in the Labor Market (2018) prohibit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, nationality, and religion. The Penal Code also criminalizes hate speech and incitement to racial hatred, ensuring legal safeguards against racism.
Iceland has seen an increase in immigration in recent decades, with immigrants making up 19.6% of the population on 1 January 2026. People born in Poland constitute the largest immigrant group, with growing Polish, Filipino, and Middle Eastern communities.
While the country has historically been ethnically homogenous, it has made efforts to promote multiculturalism through education and integration programs.
10. Switzerland
Switzerland ranks tenth in the racial-equality survey used for this list. The country’s constitution prohibits discrimination based on race and origin, while Article 261bis of the Criminal Code covers certain forms of public racial discrimination and hate speech.
The Federal Commission against Racism also monitors discrimination and advises the government. However, racism is still a concern in Switzerland. In 2025, counseling centers documented 1,245 racial prejudice cases, particularly in education, workplaces, and public spaces.
Anti-Black racism, xenophobia, and anti-Muslim racism were among the most frequently reported issues. Therefore, Switzerland’s ranking should not be interpreted as evidence that the country is free from discrimination.
The Best Countries for Black Expats
Due to past colonialism and ongoing institutional racism in certain countries, Black expats must look a bit more carefully at where to settle than other races.
They need to look for countries with high levels of racial tolerance and anti-discrimination laws, visible Black communities, easy immigration, cultural connection or heritage to Black culture and opportunities for entrepreneurship.
1. Ghana
Ghana has a rich history and deep connection to the African diaspora, and Accra has become a hub for Black Americans in particular. The government has even initiated the “Beyond the Return” program for those looking to reconnect with their roots.
2. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is not only a beautiful country but also stable, progressive and peaceful. There’s a large historic Afro-Caribbean population in Limon who are very welcoming to immigrants.
3. South Africa
South Africa provides the best of both worlds. Modern cities that will feel familiar to American expats mixed with true African culture. Johannesburg and Cape Town have large urban communities with plenty of Black professionals and creatives.
4. Mexico
Mexico is great for Black American expats as it is close to the United States. It is also affordable and has a vibrant culture to immerse yourself in. Mexico City, Oaxaca, and coastal towns like Puerto Escondido are expat-friendly and increasingly diverse.
5. Thailand
Thailand has a low cost of living, modern infrastructure, and warm weather. Cities like Chang Mai and Bangkok have tight-knit expat communities that will make for a welcoming entry into this culturally interesting country.
Explore Global Citizenship: Key Insights and Options
Relocating to another country and obtaining citizenship are separate processes. Depending on your circumstances, available pathways may include citizenship by descent, naturalization after residence, family reunification, skilled-work visas, and residence or citizenship by investment.
Before choosing a route, compare:
- Residency and citizenship rights
- Minimum-stay and eligibility requirements
- Processing times and total costs
- Tax implications and dual-citizenship rules
- Options for including family members
Racial equity and inclusivity should also form part of your due diligence alongside immigration, financial and lifestyle considerations.
What Minority Expats Should Consider Before Relocating
A high racial-equality ranking can be a useful starting point, but it does not guarantee the same experience for every minority expat.
Before relocating, consider:
- Legal protection: Check whether discrimination is prohibited in employment, housing, education, and public services, and how complaints are handled.
- Employment and housing: Research evidence of hiring, pay or rental discrimination rather than relying only on national rankings.
- Community support: Look for established minority communities, cultural organizations, professional networks, and suitable personal-care services.
- Police and hate crime: Review reports from equality bodies, ECRI or UN committees concerning racial profiling and racist incidents.
- Everyday practicalities: Compare visa rules, language requirements, healthcare, taxes, living costs and access to education.
Whenever possible, visit the city first and speak with minority residents or expats whose circumstances are similar to yours. Their lived experiences will offer more insight and help you manage your expectations.
Why Work with Global Citizen Solutions?
- Trusted by 15,000+ clients worldwide
- Over a decade of advisory expertise
- Dedicated relationship manager
- Transparent fees and guidance
- Support beyond approval
