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Switzerland Tops Most Powerful Passports In 2024
Switzerland has topped the list of the most powerful passports in 2024 according to the Nomad Passport Index.
The tax and immigration consulting firm, Nomad Capitalist disclosed that factors responsible for the strength of passports include visa-free travel, taxation, global perception, dual citizenship status, and personal freedom.
According to the Nomad Capitalist, the requirements include visa-free travel — 50%, taxation — 20%, global perception —10%, ability to hold dual citizenship — 10% and personal freedom (freedom of the press, mandatory military service, etc.) — 10%.
The 2024 Nomad Passport Index states, “Citizens of different countries deal with very different requirements to pay tax, live freely, comply with regulations, and avoid scrutiny when traveling. In that regard, the number of countries a passport holder may visit does not tell the whole story.”
Following Switzerland, the top nine countries with powerful passports include Ireland, Portugal, Luxembourg, Finland, the United Arab Emirates, The Netherlands, Norway, Germany and New Zealand.
According to CNBC, the Index said, “Portugal tied with Ireland in all but personal freedom, emphasizing its steady appeal, while Finland —known for its vast visa-free travel options — now ranks fourth, highlighting the importance of global accessibility.”
But the “standout development” is the United Arab Emirates.
It said, “The UAE was No. 1 in 2023, but slipped to a sixth-place tie this year with countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and New Zealand, according to the research team.
“The drop was caused by a change in UAE tax policy that affected domestic and overseas company owners, including residents with foreign company ownership.”
Bulgaria is one to watch, according to the team. Its passport rose from 42nd in the index to 32nd in two years, largely because of its entrance into Europe’s Schengen zone scheduled to happen in late March, it said.
Hong Kong slipped from 44th place in 2022 to 50th place this year, while Macao ranks 69th and China sits much further down the list in 120th place.
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By Gloria Ikibah
As part of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the House of Representatives is set to lead a historic march on Monday, November 25, 2024, in a bold effort to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) in the country.
The march, which begins at 8:00 AM, will see over 1,000 participants, including lawmakers and members of the public walk from the National Assembly to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja. The event will culminate in the submission of a petition to the Inspector General of Police, demanding decisive action against GBV and greater protection for vulnerable groups.
Speaking about the initiative, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD., GCON, said, “This march and the activities that follow are not mere gestures but a reflection of our determination to confront gender-based violence head-on. We are committed to building a society where justice, equality, and safety prevail for all Nigerians.”
In a statement by the House Spokesperson, Rep. Akin Rotimi on Saturday in Abuja, he said, “The 10th House of Representatives has reaffirmed its commitment to systemic reforms, collaboration, and accountability in the fight against gender-based violence.
“In addition to the march, the House has outlined key activities in alignment with its Legislative Agenda (2023–2027) to sustain awareness and action throughout the campaign period.
“Sash Demonstration Ceremony – Tuesday, November 26, 2024
“Convergence of State Assembly Speakers – Monday, December 9, 2024. A strategic meeting at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, will bring together Speakers of State Houses of Assembly to discuss legislative measures for combating GBV nationwide.
“National Citizens’ Summit and GBV Conference 2024 – Tuesday, December 10, 2024. The summit will focus on constitutional reforms and securing endorsements for gender equality initiatives led by the House of Representatives”.
Naijablitznews.com reports that this year’s 16 Days of Activism aims to galvanise nationwide efforts and inspire collective action to protect human rights, ensure justice, and create a safer, more equitable Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu has departed Galeao Air force Basa (SBGL) Airport, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday, for Abuja after attending the 19th G20 Leaders Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The President is due to arrive at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 10.00 p.m. (Nigerian time).
President Tinubu had attended the G20 Leaders summit where he endorsed the global alliance against hunger and poverty, which he said was pivotal.
The President also held bilateral talks with Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), who commended his administration’s economic reforms and their positive indicators.
He also presided over the signing of a 2.5 billion dollar Letter of Intent between the Nigerian government and the JBS S.A., a Brazilian company and one of the top three largest meat processing companies in the World.
The president was accompanied in the trip by senior government officials including the minister of foreign affairs yusuf Tuggar, the national security adviser, Nuhu RIBADU and many others.
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