Recent data from Numbeo and GlobalProductPrices show that consumers in Switzerland now pay around $7.73 for a dozen large eggs, the highest globally, followed by New Zealand at roughly $6.19 and Puerto Rico at $5.64. Denmark, the Netherlands and Luxembourg also rank among the most expensive markets, reflecting broader cost pressures across high-income economies.

While European and developed markets dominate the top tier, prices in countries such as India, Pakistan and Nigeria remain below $2 per dozen, highlighting wide gaps in production costs, labour and purchasing power.

At the centre of the price spike is a prolonged outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu , which decimated poultry flocks worldwide in 2024 and 2025. Millions of egg-laying hens have been culled to contain the disease, sharply reducing supply and pushing prices higher.

In the United States alone, egg supply fell by as much as 15–20% during peak outbreaks, contributing to price spikes that exceeded $6–$8 per dozen in some regions.

The economic mechanics are straightforward, as fewer hens mean fewer eggs, creating a supply deficit that drives prices upward in a market where demand remains relatively inelastic.

Beyond disease outbreaks, producers are grappling with escalating input costs. Feed prices, particularly for corn and soybean meal, along with higher energy, transport and labour costs, have significantly increased the cost of egg production globally.

Regulatory changes are also playing a role. In countries such as Switzerland and New Zealand, stricter animal welfare standards and transitions to cage-free farming systems have raised operational costs, which are ultimately passed on to consumers.

Faced with persistent volatility, producers are investing heavily in biosecurity measures and rebuilding flocks, though recovery remains slow because hens require time to mature and resume laying.

Exporters and importers, meanwhile, are adapting trade flows to stabilise supply. Governments in some countries are exploring increased egg imports and financial support for farmers to cushion the impact of shortages and price swings.

Retailers and food manufacturers have also adjusted, introducing purchase limits and reformulating products to reduce reliance on eggs amid elevated prices.

Figures compiled by World Population Review show that Australia ranks first globally for average home size, followed closely by the United States and New Zealand.

Australia's residential properties average about 2,303 square feet (214 square metres).

The large average reflects Australia’s suburban development patterns, relatively lower population density and a long-standing cultural preference for detached houses.

Many Australian homes include large outdoor spaces, multiple bedrooms and expansive living areas, features common in suburban developments across cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

The United States ranks second globally, with the average new single-family home measuring roughly 2,299 square feet, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

American housing has historically grown larger over the decades, driven by suburban expansion and consumer demand for bigger living spaces.

U.S. housing statistics show that new homes often include features such as large kitchens, garages and open-plan layouts, contributing to the country’s high average residential floor area.

New Zealand follows closely with an average home size of about 2,174 square feet (202 square metres).

Canada ranks fourth, with average homes around 1,948 square feet (181 square metres), reflecting similar suburban development trends seen in North America and parts of Oceania.

Both countries have relatively low population densities compared with many European nations, allowing for larger residential developments.

European countries generally have smaller homes on average, largely due to higher population density, historic urban design and different housing traditions.

Norway ranks fifth globally with homes averaging 1,496 square feet, followed by Greece at 1,356 square feet and Belgium at 1,293 square feet.

The Netherlands and France also appear in the top ten, with average homes measuring around 1,261 square feet and 1,206 square feet, respectively.

Spain rounds out the list with an average home size of 1,044 square feet, reflecting the country’s high proportion of apartment living in urban areas.

According to multiple expert sources on citizenship routes, these nations stand out for their simplified requirements, whether through naturalisation, ancestral links, investment or residency pathways.

Top 10 countries where citizenship is easiest to obtain in 2026

1. Argentina

Argentina is widely regarded as one of the fastest naturalisation systems in the world. Under Argentine law , foreign nationals can apply for citizenship after two years of legal residence in the country. Unlike many jurisdictions, Argentina does not require a lengthy permanent residency phase before naturalisation. Applicants must demonstrate lawful income, basic Spanish proficiency and integration into society, but there is no formal minimum investment threshold. Dual citizenship is permitted. The relatively short statutory timeline makes Argentina one of the most straightforward legal routes to citizenship globally.

2. Dominica

Dominica operates one of the longest-running and most recognised citizenship-by-investment programmes in the Caribbean. According to Global Citizen Solutions , the country’s framework is considered transparent and efficient. Instead of waiting years through residency, applicants can obtain citizenship by making a government-approved financial contribution or investing in authorised real estate projects. Processing times are typically measured in months rather than years, and there is no physical residency requirement. This combination of speed, clarity and due diligence oversight places Dominica among the most accessible second passport options.

3. Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua and Barbuda also offers citizenship through investment and is frequently ranked favourably by mobility consultants. The programme allows applicants to qualify through a national development fund contribution, approved property investment or business participation. While there is a minimal physical presence requirement, it is limited and manageable. The country’s programme is designed to accommodate families, and processing timelines are comparatively efficient. Its established legal structure and predictable requirements contribute to its reputation as one of the more accessible citizenship-by-investment routes.

4. Paraguay

Paraguay is often cited as a relatively simple naturalisation pathway within South America. The general process involves securing permanent residency and maintaining residence in the country for several years before applying for citizenship. While recent enforcement has emphasised genuine physical presence and integration, the legal framework itself remains comparatively straightforward. The cost of living is relatively low, and the administrative procedures are less complex than in many Western jurisdictions. For individuals prepared to establish real ties in the country, Paraguay remains one of the more attainable naturalisation options.

5. Ecuador

Ecuador offers a clear progression from temporary residency to permanent residency and eventually citizenship. After approximately three years of legal residence, applicants may apply for naturalisation. They are required to pass a Spanish language and civic knowledge assessment, but the financial thresholds are not prohibitive compared with other countries. Dual citizenship is allowed. Analysts frequently note that Ecuador’s combination of flexible visa categories, moderate residency requirements and manageable costs makes it one of Latin America’s more practical routes to citizenship.

6. Brazil

Brazil provides multiple naturalisation pathways , which increase its accessibility. The standard requirement involves several years of permanent residence along with proof of Portuguese language ability and good character. However, the timeline may be reduced significantly in cases involving marriage to a Brazilian citizen or parenthood of a Brazilian child. Brazil recognises dual citizenship and maintains one of the strongest passports in Latin America in terms of global mobility. The country’s large economy and flexible legal provisions contribute to its inclusion on lists of easier citizenship jurisdictions.

7. Portugal

Portugal remains one of Europe’s most discussed destinations for long-term citizenship planning. Following five years of legal residence, individuals may apply for Portuguese citizenship provided they demonstrate basic language proficiency and maintain a clean criminal record. Although reforms have reshaped aspects of its residency-by-investment framework, Portugal continues to offer a structured and predictable route from residency to citizenship. Because Portuguese nationality grants full European Union rights, advisory firms often describe it as one of the most strategic and comparatively accessible options within the EU.

8. Canada

Canada’s citizenship pathway is regarded as transparent and rule-based. Applicants must first become permanent residents and then accumulate a defined period of physical presence within Canada before applying for naturalisation. Language proficiency and a citizenship knowledge test are also required. While Canada is not the fastest jurisdiction in terms of statutory timelines, it is frequently highlighted for procedural clarity and institutional stability. The country permits dual citizenship and maintains a strong global passport ranking, making it an attractive long-term option.

9. Ireland

Ireland stands out particularly for citizenship by descent. Individuals with an Irish-born parent or grandparent may qualify through registration in the Foreign Births Register, making it one of the more accessible European nationality routes for those with ancestral ties. For those without descent claims, naturalisation typically requires five years of reckonable residence. Ireland’s passport provides full European Union rights and strong global travel access. Because of its descent provisions and stable legal framework, Ireland consistently appears in mobility rankings as one of the more attainable European citizenship options.

10. New Zealand

New Zealand offers a structured and clearly defined naturalisation route. Applicants are generally required to complete five years of residence while meeting minimum physical presence thresholds and demonstrating English language ability. The process also requires proof of intention to maintain ties to the country. Although the timeline is not exceptionally short, the legal clarity and administrative transparency contribute to its reputation as an accessible pathway. New Zealand permits dual citizenship and is frequently cited for governance standards and quality of life, factors that strengthen its appeal among global applicants.

“With a war raging, Hamas remaining the de facto government of Gaza, and no clarity on next steps, too many questions remain about the future state of Palestine for it to be prudent for New Zealand to announce recognition at this time,” he said. 

Peters added that recognition in the current climate “could complicate efforts to secure a ceasefire by pushing Israel and Hamas into even more intransigent positions.”

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon echoed that stance in Auckland the following day, stressing that recognition was “a question of when, not if.” He said New Zealanders could be “proud” of the government’s independent decision. 

“We are not pro-Palestine, nor Israel, and we are friends to both. What we are is pro-peace,” Luxon said.

The decision leaves New Zealand among a minority of countries, including the United States, Japan and South Korea, that have withheld recognition. It stood apart from partners such as Australia, Canada and Britain, which on Sunday joined more than 140 nations that formally backed Palestinian aspirations for statehood.

Officials in Wellington argued that the timing was key. 

A government handout released on Friday said New Zealand “hoped to recognise a Palestinian state at a time when the situation on the ground offers greater prospects for peace and negotiation than at present.” 

Luxon said his government would continue to support the Palestinian Authority in building governance and institutions to prepare for eventual statehood.

Critics, however, accused the government of moral failure. 

Former prime minister Helen Clark called it a “day of shame” for New Zealand, noting the decision had been taken 11 days earlier but disclosed late in the UN debate. 

Labour’s foreign affairs spokesperson, Peeni Henare, said the government had placed New Zealand “on the wrong side of history,” adding: “There is no two-state solution or enduring peace in the Middle East without recognition of Palestine as a state.”

A map produced by The World in Maps highlights four nations where cattle reign supreme over the human race and underscores the vital role livestock plays in their economies, exports, and cultural heritage.

Argentina stands out with  53.8 million cattle , surpassing its 45.5 million citizens. Known for its vast pampas and world-famous beef, Argentina’s cattle industry is beyond big business. It’s a national symbol.

Brazil, with its huge 252.7 million cattle, far exceeds its population of 211.1 million people. As a global leader in beef exports, Brazil’s livestock sector fuels international food markets and supports millions of jobs across the country.

In Uruguay, the dominance of cattle is even more striking: 11.9 million cows compared to just 3.3 million people. That’s more than three cows per person. Uruguay’s premium beef is in high demand worldwide, making livestock a cornerstone of its economy.

New Zealand rounds up the list with 10 million cattle for a population of 5.2 million. Known for its rolling green pastures and premium dairy products, New Zealand’s cattle sector is integral to both its exports and rural identity.

According to FAOSTAT’s latest figures , the global cattle population exceeds 1 billion head, with Latin America and Asia leading production.

Brazil alone accounts for nearly 25% of South America's cattle, supporting both domestic consumption and export demands, while Uruguay’s beef industry is so robust that it exports over 70% of its beef production, mainly to China and the European Union .

In this piece, we'll take a look at the strongest passports in each continent, based on the 2025 Passport Index , a global ranking of passports according to their total mobility score.

The Mobility Score (MS) represents the total number of countries that can be easily accessed with a particular passport. It is calculated based on the number of destinations offering Visa-free, Visa-on-arrival, eTA, and eVisa options available within a 3-day timeframe.

Asia: UAE

With a score of 179, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) takes the top spot in Asia and globally. UAE citizens can travel to an impressive 179 countries without needing a visa, including popular destinations like France, Austria, and Mexico.

Europe: Spain

Spain's passport is one of the strongest in the world, with a visa-free score of 178. This means Spanish citizens can travel to 178 countries without needing a visa, including most European countries, Argentina, and Canada.

Oceania: New Zealand

New Zealand's passport is one of the strongest in the world, with a visa-free score of 174. New Zealand citizens can travel to 174 countries including Belarus, China and Denmark without a visa.

North America: Canada

With a mobility score of 173, Canadian passport holders can travel visa-free to 173 countries, including the Bahamas, Belgium, and Germany.

South America: Brazil

Brazi's passport is the strongest in South America, with a 165 visa-free score. Brazilian citizens can travel to countries like Uruguay, Bolivia and Argentina.

Africa: Seychelles

The Seychelles, an archipelago off the coast of East Africa, boasts the strongest passport in Africa. With a visa-free score of 148, Seychelles citizens can travel without a visa to countries such as Dominica, Estonia, and Denmark.

According to CNN , the decision was made by New Zealand’s Parliament on January 30, with all lawmakers voting in favour.

Under the new law, a group of eight people—four from local Maori tribes and four appointed by the government—will act as the mountain’s voice.

They will help make decisions about its care, conservation, and protection.

Mount Taranaki, a 2,500-meter dormant volcano, is an important landmark on the country’s North Island. For centuries, the Maori have considered it an ancestor and a source of spiritual and cultural strength. But in the past, they had little say in how the land was managed.

The new law also acknowledges a painful history when the mountain was taken from the Maori in 1865 when British colonizers seized land as punishment for local resistance.

This was despite an earlier agreement, the Treaty of Waitangi, which was supposed to protect Maori land rights.

Mount Taranaki is now the third natural feature in New Zealand to receive legal personhood. A forest was granted the same status in 2014, and a river followed in 2017.

The move comes at a time when many Maori are pushing back against efforts to weaken their rights.

Supporters of the law say it is an important step toward justice and protecting the environment.

A study published in the journal Risk Analysis identifies Australia, New Zealand, Iceland, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu as the island nations most capable of sustaining their populations with adequate food after a major "sunlight-reducing catastrophe," such as a nuclear war, supervolcano eruption, or asteroid impact.

"Australia's food supply buffer is gigantic, with the potential to feed many tens of millions of extra people. Good-quality infrastructure, vast energy surplus, the second highest health security in the world, and triple the defence spending of any other island in our analysis, all suggest that Australia has the potential to thrive during an ASRS," co-authors Prof Nick Wilson and Dr Matt Boyd wrote.

They were, however, quick to add that Australia's alliance with the UK and the US could make it a nuclear target.

New Zealand on the other hand scores big in terms of its detachment from any form of military alliance.

“We have this super efficient food export economy that could feed New Zealanders multiple times over just from exports,” said Prof Nick Wilson. 

The study finds that Iceland’s small economy would likely face challenges from a lack of imports and infrastructure breakdown. However, it might still have access to North America, the UK, and Europe, provided these regions aren't entirely devastated by war, famine, or social collapse.

In other words, these regions are characterised by their distance from major conflict zones and geopolitical hotspots, making them less likely to be drawn into large-scale conflicts.

The GPI provides a comprehensive analysis that ranks 163 independent nations and territories, covering approximately 99.7% of the world's population. It evaluates 23 indicators across three categories: militarisation, safety and security, and domestic and international conflict, resulting in a single Peace Index Score. A lower score indicates a higher level of peace within a country.

Below are the top 10 peaceful countries renowned for their tranquillity and peace globally:

Iceland

Iceland proudly upholds its status as the world's most peaceful country for the 17th consecutive year. In addition to this remarkable achievement, Iceland ranks 3rd in the safety and security domain and holds the top positions in the ongoing conflict and militarisation domains. However, it is worth noting a 4% decline in its overall score which is 1,124, due to an increase in the homicide rate and the impact of terrorism indicators.

Denmark

Denmark, with its political stability, freedom of the press, and commitment to human rights, fosters an environment where peace flourishes. The country has climbed two spots in the latest index, now proudly holding the second rank. Previously positioned fourth in the 2022 index, Denmark's advancement is notably marked by the minimal economic impact of violence, which constitutes merely 4% of the country's GDP.

Ireland

Ireland steadfastly maintains its rank as the world's third most peaceful nation with a score of 1.312. According to the 2023 GPI, it holds the fourth lowest position regarding the economic repercussions of violence, and it operates a neutral military force, free from the expenditure targets associated with NATO membership.

New Zealand

New Zealand secures the 4th position globally and stands as the epitome of peace in the Asia-Pacific zone. The country has seen positive shifts in factors like the frequency of violent protests, prison population figures, and the influence of terrorism. Yet, it faces a costly economic impact of violence when measured against its peers in the top ten.

Austria

Austria consistently holds its position as the 5th most tranquil nation. Succeeding in all sectors, it ranks within the top 15 and is distinguished for its minimal economic cost of violence. However, it's important to note that recent terrorist incidents have necessitated a robust governmental reaction, which has intensified the terrorism metric.

Singapore

Singapore has achieved significant progress, ascending three ranks in the index. It also proudly occupies the second position in the Asia-Pacific region. Singapore is also among the top five in the domains of safety and security, as well as ongoing conflict, even with its considerable military spending of $3,227 per capita.

Portugal

Ranked 4th in terms of militarisation and acknowledged as the 5th most serene nation within Europe, Portugal firmly upholds its status as the seventh most peaceful country in the world among its top ten peers.

Slovenia

Slovenia stands out as the sole Central European nation among the top ten in peace rankings. It has seen a slight drop, moving to the 8th position against its 7th position in the Global Peace Index. Furthermore, Slovenia holds a commendable 5th place in the militarization category.

Japan

Japan has advanced by one position from the 2023 Global Peace Index. It also secured the 2nd rank in the safety and security domain and stands as the 3rd most peaceful country in the Asia-Pacific region. Japan's strategic defence spending is influenced by its geographical closeness to China and North Korea.

Switzerland

Switzerland has made its way into the global top 10 for most peaceful nations. It's noteworthy that even with this distinction, Switzerland continues to be one of the leading nations in terms of per capita weapons exports as of 2023.

Luxon expressed gratitude for the public's patience, noting policy compromises made by each party. The government aims to alleviate the cost of living, provide tax relief, enhance prosperity, and enhance law and order for the safety of citizens.

The leaders have committed to public service cuts, the training of 500 additional police within two years, and a shift in the Reserve Bank's mandate to focus solely on maintaining low inflation.

The deputy prime minister position will be shared between Winston Peters of the New Zealand First Party and David Seymour of the ACT Party, with Peters holding the role for the initial 18 months before passing it to Seymour. Peters, known for his contentious relationship with the media, criticized certain reporters.

“Look, please don’t start off this government with your antagonistic attitude,” he said, grinning, in response to one reporter’s question. “You’ve lost. You lost. Right?” said Peters, explaining that he does not anticipate any alterations to New Zealand's existing foreign policy regarding China.

While New Zealand relies on China for the purchase of a significant portion of its agricultural exports, it has also voiced escalating apprehension about China's heightened assertiveness in the Pacific region.

Seymour, set to assume the newly established position of regulation minister, expressed the view that the nation had been heading in an unfavorable direction under the preceding liberal government. He cited increasing prices, crime rates, and societal divisions as key concerns.

“We must now draw a line under that and work to ensure New Zealanders have hope that a government can, indeed, deliver better public services and return for their hard-earned taxes,” Seymour said.

In New Zealand's proportional voting system, alliances are typically necessary for parties to secure a governing majority.

Initially, on election night, the closely aligned National and ACT parties had just enough votes for governance. However, a final count, incorporating special votes, altered the landscape and led to more challenging three-way negotiations.

Chris Hipkins, the outgoing Prime Minister, had already conceded to Luxon on election night after deciding not to work with Winston Peters. Hipkins, who heads the liberal Labour Party, held the top position for a mere nine months, succeeding Jacinda Ardern, who unexpectedly stepped down in January, citing insufficient energy to fulfill the role adequately.

Ardern had won the previous election in a landslide, but her popularity declined as fatigue with COVID-19 restrictions grew, and inflation posed a threat to the economy.

In a report from Reuters, New Zealand First's eight seats would provide the three parties with a majority. Additionally, the Commission reported that the Labor Party of New Zealand obtained 34 seats, the Green Party secured 15 seats, and Te Pati Maori won six seats.

Christopher Luxon, the Prime Minister-elect of New Zealand, stated during a press conference that the outcome was largely as expected, and his party had been in discussions with both ACT and NZ First since the election. He emphasized that there was goodwill and good faith among all three political party leaders to navigate the negotiation process constructively and promptly.

Although the Labour Party acknowledged defeat in the election, right-wing parties were awaiting the final vote count before finalizing coalition agreements and forming a new government.

However, Luxon said on Thursday he could not guarantee when a government might be formed.

"I just genuinely can't, because there is complexity in arrangements that we need to work through," Luxon said. "We are working with the greatest speed."

In the initial count last month, National and ACT could have formed a government as they held a combined 61 seats. However, the National Party lost two seats in the final count, reducing their majority.

Furthermore, the total number of parliamentary seats increased from 121 to 122 because Te Pati Maori won more electorate seats than they would have received from their share of the party vote. Several seats are expected to undergo recounts, including one won by Te Pati Maori with a margin of just four votes.

The final vote count includes approximately 603,000 special votes, constituting around 21% of the total, including those from overseas voters or individuals who cast their ballots outside their electoral constituency, which were not included in the initial tally.

Prime Minister-elect Luxon noted that he couldn't guarantee when a government might be formed, citing the complexity of the arrangements that need to be worked through. He emphasized that they were working with utmost speed.

According to the law, New Zealand's parliament must convene within six weeks of the official election results, but there is no set deadline for the formation of a government. David Seymour, ACT leader, expressed his hope that the negotiations would conclude within a matter of days or in less than a week during a media conference.