The 2019 Index of Economic Freedom is an index developed by the Heritage Foundation. The Index covers 12 freedoms – from property rights to financial freedom – in 186 countries.

Both Switzerland (fourth globally) and Ireland (sixth globally) retains the top and second spot in Europe. The United Kingdom takes an improved third spot in Europe - however, this may take a turn in 2020 with the impending Brexit.

The Heritage Foundation defines "economic freedom" as the fundamental right of every human to control his or her own labor and property and believes that the ideals of economic freedom are strongly associated with healthier societies, cleaner environments, greater per capita wealth, human development, democracy, and poverty elimination. For more information, please visit the Heritage Foundation website below: