Greece has been ranked among the most generous nations in the world, securing 7th place in a new global study published by Remitly.
Crucially, this research, based on the Interpersonal Generosity Scale, has moved beyond simple monetary donations. Instead, it surveyed over 4,500 people worldwide to capture generosity as a broader behavior encompassing empathy, emotional support, patience, kindness, and a willingness to put others’ needs first.
Participants across 25 countries were questioned about a series of statements taken from the Interpersonal Generosity Scale. Each item was presented as a clear first-person statement, and respondents were asked about how strongly they identified with it, selecting either “strongly agree,” “agree,” “somewhat agree,” “somewhat disagree,” “disagree,” or “strongly disagree.” Their responses were converted into cumulative scores, with a maximum possible score of 60 across the test. The results reveal to what extent individuals, and by extension, nations, exhibit interpersonal generosity in their everyday lives.
Greece’s score: How generous are Greeks?
Greece achieved an average generosity score of 47.62 out of 60, making it not only a global top-ten nation but also one of four European countries (alongside Ireland, Portugal, and the UK) to make the cut. South Africa topped the list (51.57), while the Philippines and the US rounded out the top three.
This unique ranking provides a fascinating perspective on the country’s renowned culture of philoxenia (hospitality) and community spirit, which often involves mutual support and communal responsibility—traits echoed in the high ranking of the Philippines’ culture of pakikipagkapwa. Ryan Riley, VP of Marketing for EMEA and APAC at Remitly, commented:
“Generosity is often seen purely through a financial lens, but our study shows it’s much more than that. The countries that rank highest aren’t just those who give the most money, but those where people consistently show up for others with kindness, empathy and everyday acts of support.
At Remitly, we see this spirit of generosity in action every day, especially among our customers who work hard abroad to support loved ones back home. It’s reflected in the culture of countries like South Africa and the Philippines, where caring for your community is a shared value rather than an individual choice.
If you’re planning on making the move to a new country, immersing yourself in the local community and showing your generous side could be a great way to get involved and forge new and meaningful relationships.”
Related: The Enduring Philoxenia of the Greek People