Mauritius Ranks No.1 In Africa But 56th Globally for Social Progress

Mauritius has maintained its position as the premier nation in Africa for social well-being, ranking 56th globally in the 2026 Global Social Progress Index. However, the prestigious accolade arrives alongside a sharpening debate over rising crime rates and a disconnect between international statistics and the “lived reality” of its citizens.

According to the report released by the Social Progress Imperative, Mauritius achieved a score of 72.28, placing it in “Tier 2” of the 171 countries assessed.

The index, which bypasses traditional economic metrics like GDP to measure 57 social and environmental indicators, noted that while the island’s trajectory remains positive, progress stagnated in 2025.

The Security Gap

Despite the high ranking, internal concerns are mounting. A surge in criminality, domestic violence, and a general “feeling of insecurity” have clouded the national mood.

These concerns were validated internationally last December when U.S. authorities raised their Travel Advisory for Mauritius to Level 2, advising increased vigilance due to opportunistic crime.

Expert Analysis: “Don’t Be Complacent”

Sociologist Dr Nicolas Ragodoo argues that the ranking should be viewed as a compass rather than a trophy.

“56th in the world is not an exceptional ranking. We must not be complacent,” he warned.

While acknowledging challenges like drug trafficking and the high cost of living, Dr Ragodoo remains optimistic about the country’s “social foundations.”

He pointed to the heavy reliance on foreign labour and the extensive social protection model—often taken for granted—as evidence of a resilient standard of living.

In contrast, Khushal Lobine, parliamentary lawyer and leader of the Nouveaux Démocrates, defended the nation’s stability.

During a recent broadcast, he urged the public to distinguish between “felt insecurity” and “structural law and order,” noting that many violent incidents remain confined to domestic or family circles rather than representing a generalized breakdown of safety.

A Matter of Perspective

The article highlights a “grass is greener” effect among the Mauritian diaspora.

• From Canada: Caroline P. noted that while insecurity exists in Mauritius, the island retains a sense of community and freedom of movement often lost in highly individualistic Western cities.
• From Madagascar: Olivier S. remarked that compared to the “constant tension” of life in other regional neighbours, Mauritius remains a place where one can still “breathe and live.”

Mental Health: A New Indicator of Progress

Doris Dardanne, President of Befrienders Mauritius, suggests that the country’s true progress is found in its changing mindset.

She notes that Mauritians are increasingly seeking help for mental distress, breaking long-standing taboos.

“A society also progresses when it learns to take care of its members and respond to fragility with solidarity,” she stated.

At a Glance: The 2026 Index

As Mauritius navigates 2026, the consensus remains that while its regional leadership is secure, the “fragile equilibrium” of its social peace requires constant vigilance rather than reliance on global rankings.

Source: Defi Media