The Global Liveability Index is an annual assessment that offers insights into the quality of life in cities around the world. Compiled by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), it evaluates the living conditions across various urban areas to help understand which cities offer the best and worst living environments. The ranking is based on a range of parameters that are essential for a city’s liveability.
Understanding the Global Liveability Index
The index ranks 140 cities globally, comparing them across five broad categories: stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. Each city is scored on a scale from 1 to 100, with 1 being intolerable and 100 being ideal. These scores are then compiled to provide an overall rating that determines the city’s position on the index. The stability category examines the prevalence of crime, the threat of terror or military conflict, and the effectiveness of law enforcement. Healthcare assesses the availability and quality of private and public healthcare, over-the-counter drugs, and other medical supplies. Culture and environment take into account factors such as temperature rating, sporting availability, cultural availability, food and drink, and consumer goods and services. Education looks at the availability and quality of private and public education. Lastly, infrastructure evaluates the quality of roads, public transportation, international links, housing, energy, and water provision.
Data Collection During a Pandemic
The data for the 2021 Global Liveability Index was collected during a particularly challenging period, from February 22, 2020, to March 21, 2021. This time frame coincided with the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a global health crisis that significantly impacted the way cities functioned and how inhabitants experienced urban life. The pandemic introduced new variables and challenges in assessing liveability, as cities had to rapidly adapt to changing circumstances and implement measures to protect public health.
Impact of COVID-19 on Global Liveability
The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound effect on global liveability scores. The average score for liveability across all cities saw a seven-point decline compared to pre-pandemic levels. This drop reflects the widespread disruptions caused by the pandemic, including strain on healthcare resources, limitations on cultural activities, and restrictions on movement and travel. Cities around the world had to contend with the direct and indirect consequences of the virus, which in turn influenced their liveability rankings.
Top Performers Amidst the Pandemic
Despite the overall decline in liveability, some cities managed to rise above the challenges posed by COVID-19. Notably, New Zealand and Australian cities emerged as top performers in the 2021 report. Their success can be attributed to the effective management and response to the health crisis, which allowed these cities to maintain higher standards of living even as others struggled. The swift actions taken by their governments, including strict lockdowns and border controls, helped to minimize the impact of the pandemic on their urban centers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Global Liveability Index provides a snapshot of the quality of urban living around the world, offering valuable insights into how cities can improve the lives of their residents. The 2021 report highlights the resilience of certain cities in the face of an unprecedented global health emergency, while also underscoring the importance of robust public health measures and infrastructure in maintaining liveability standards. As the world continues to navigate the challenges of the pandemic, the lessons learned from the Global Liveability Index will be crucial in shaping more livable urban futures for all.