Abstract:
A country’s passport ranking reflects much more than travel freedom. It integrates economic strength, diplomatic networks, security perceptions and global reputation. This article examines what a lower ranking—such as Rank 85 in the Passport Index—signifies from financial, geopolitical, developmental and social perspectives. It also outlines how such rankings influence international mobility, foreign investment flow, and national image. Finally, the study provides policy recommendations for improving a country’s global mobility score.
Introduction:
The Passport Index is widely used to evaluate the “global mobility power” of different nations. A passport ranked at 85th position indicates limited access to visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations. Although this may appear to be a mere travel indicator, in reality it reflects deeper structural issues linked with economic stability, national reputation and international relations. Understanding the multidimensional meaning of such a ranking is essential for policymakers, researchers and global governance institutions.
Problem Statement:
What does a low Passport Index ranking actually indicate about a nation’s economic status, security perception, and global reputation?
Analysis:
1. Economic and Financial Perspective
A lower passport rank often correlates with weaker economic performance, low investor confidence, and limited global trade connectivity. Countries at Rank 85 typically experience higher barriers to international business travel, which increases transaction costs and reduces competitiveness. Frequent visa requirements restrict entrepreneurs, students and skilled workers, ultimately affecting remittances, economic mobility and talent exchange.
2. Global Reputation and Diplomatic Relations
Passport strength is indirectly a reflection of how the world perceives a country’s governance, stability and diplomatic reliability. A lower ranking suggests limited bilateral partnerships, lower diplomatic influence, and concerns regarding political stability or bureaucratic inefficiencies. Such reputational challenges lead other countries to impose stricter entry regulations on its citizens.
3. Security, Governance and Migration Risks
Countries with mid-to-low rankings are often seen as posing higher risks of irregular migration or security concerns. While this perception may not always reflect ground reality, it significantly shapes visa policies. Strong law-and-order systems, transparent governance and effective border control usually help nations achieve higher passport mobility scores.
4. Socio-developmental Indicators
Passport power aligns closely with a country’s human development indicators. Nations with strong education systems, high income levels and stable institutions usually enjoy higher rankings. Conversely, Rank 85 reflects developmental challenges that limit both social mobility and international trust.
Social/Ethical Angle:
Global mobility inequality is a growing concern. People from lower-ranked passport countries face structural disadvantages that restrict educational opportunities, medical access and cultural exposure. Ethically, this raises questions about fairness and global human rights in relation to freedom of movement.
What could be done ??
1. Strengthen bilateral and multilateral diplomatic agreements to increase visa-free access.
2. Improve national security, immigration management and transparency to gain global trust.
3. Invest in economic stability, infrastructure, and institutional reforms to enhance international perception.
4. Promote global cultural relations, student exchange programs and international cooperation.
Conclusion:
A passport ranked at 85 signifies more than limited travel freedom—it represents interconnected challenges across economy, diplomacy, security and development. Improving these dimensions collectively can enhance a country’s global mobility and strengthen its international standing.
Author Note:
Prepared by: Ashish Chakraborty
MSW | MA (Double); Digital Content Creator | Author | Social Worker | Environmental Volunteer | Traditional Astrologer & Palmistry Practitioner
Ashish Blogger | Writer | Socio-Environmental Volunteer 