Homophobia and anti-LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning) laws are costing economies billions of dollars worldwide. Societal acceptance of homosexuality positively correlates with inward foreign direct investment flows, this is because international workforce and investments are generally directed towards countries that are more tolerant and inclusive.
Some countries, primarily developing economies, have laws that criminalize same-sex marriages and certain forms of gender expression. These countries have their own views and beliefs strongly upheld by most of the population. As such, minority communities can better thrive in more LGBTQ-friendly countries.
Here are the top 20 most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the world.
| Rank | Country | Equality score |
| 1. | Iceland | 90 |
| 2. | Canada | 90 |
| 3. | Uruguay | 86 |
| 4. | Norway | 86 |
| 5. | Denmark | 86 |
| 6. | Netherlands | 85 |
| 7. | Spain | 84 |
| 8. | Germany | 84 |
| 9. | Australia | 84 |
| 10. | United States | 83 |
| 11. | Malta | 83 |
| 12. | United Kingdom | 82 |
| 13. | Sweden | 82 |
| 14. | Brazil | 82 |
| 15. | Argentina | 82 |
| 16. | Andorra | 81 |
| 17. | Cuba | 81 |
| 18. | Chile | 79 |
| 19. | Mexico | 78 |
| 20. | Switzerland | 78 |
| France | 78 | |
| New Zealand | 78 |
