7 Most Progressive Countries in the World

Kathleen Corrigan | October 8, 2015

Between same sex marriages being legalized federally, numerous states moving to allow marijuana, and recent changes to our healthcare system, America has made some very progressive strides in the last decade. But if we want to truly own the title of “freest country in the world,” here are seven countries we’ll have to catch up with.

Sweden

You might think the best things to come out of Sweden are Abba and the dreamy Alexander Skarsgård, but its influential social policies might be one of their nation’s best qualities. For many years, Sweden has led the pack when it comes to parental rights. In fact, both mothers and fathers are entitled to a paid leave of up to 480 days after the birth of a child.

Maybe their liberal attitude comes from the lifelong sauna culture that nearly all Swedes grow up with. It’s hard to be conservative when you spend so much time hanging out with naked people.

Hans Christiansson / Shutterstock.com

Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

SHARE ON

Cultured Palate: Dishes from Iran

Iranian cuisine uses a myriad of spices, dried and fresh fruits, herbs, and nuts to flavor dishes. These ingredients turn even the simplest meal of rice and stewed meat into a sensory explosion.

Around the World in Holiday Baking

Every December, millions of pounds of butter, sugar, and flour contribute to the creation of spectacular treats for holiday celebrations. Even if you’re not ordinarily a baker, many people venture into the kitchen before the holidays to make sure that they’ve got plenty of treats to offer to family and friends.

The Most Unusual McDonald’s Menu Items from Around the World

If you’re a fast-food connoisseur, chances are you’re already familiar with the McDonald’s menu that’s typical in North America. They bring in new choices fairly frequently. However, most people stick with their usual order of Big Macs, Quarter Pounders, fries, McFlurries, and Apple Pies. It’s familiar food, and the bulk of the menu is essentially…