A global study by digital financial services firm Remitly has named South Africa the world’s most generous nation, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The research, conducted by Remitly, used the Interpersonal Generosity Scale to evaluate behavioural aspects of generosity beyond mere financial giving. With an impressive average generosity score of 51.57 out of 60, South Africa leads the way, followed closely by the Philippines and the United States.
With Christmas, a time often associated with giving, kindness, and goodwill, just around the corner, the findings are particularly timely.
The study surveyed over 4 500 participants from 25 countries, asking them to assess their alignment with various statements related to empathy, emotional support, patience, kindness, and a willingness to prioritise the needs of others.
South Africa’s top ranking underscores a cultural ethos where personal happiness is intertwined with that of the community. Participants exhibited a strong appreciation for the happiness of others, reflecting high levels of empathy ingrained in South African society.
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This collective spirit is considered an essential part of the South African identity, greatly influencing the nation’s score.
According to Ryan Riley, VP of Marketing for EMEA and APAC at Remitly, ‘Generosity is often seen purely through a financial lens, but our study shows it’s much more than that.’
He emphasises that high-scoring nations in generosity are not those who merely give money, but rather those where kindness and empathy are woven into the everyday fabric of society. ‘It reflects a culture where caring for your community is a shared value,’ Riley added.
It’s notable that the majority of these nations are located within Europe, indicating a broader trend of compassion and generosity across the continent.
Global snapshot of generosity
Below is a glimpse of the top ten most generous nations according to the Interpersonal Generosity Scale:
- South Africa: 51.57
- Philippines: 50.2
- United States: 49.23
- Ireland: 48.4
- Canada: 48.03
- Portugal: 47.75
- Greece: 47.62
- United Kingdom: 47.53
- Australia: 47.43
- Mexico: 47.29
The full findings of this study can be accessed here.
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Picture: Gallo Images / Brenton Geach
