The Netherlands in top ten countries for mothers

The Netherlands is one of the best countries for mothers according to the "State of the World's Mothers 2011" report.

Examining "women’s access to health care, education and opportunities" in 164 countries (43 developed and 121 in the developing world), Save the Children, a leading independent organisation creating lasting change for children in need in the United States and around the world, ranked the Netherlands 9th on the 12th annual Mother’s Index top ten list, which is based on information published by governments, research institutions and international agencies.

Mothers fare best in Norway (low maternal and child mortality, high life expectancy and level of education, and an average maternity leave of one year), while they face the greatest hardships in Afghanistan (lowest life expectancy in the world (45 years) and approximately 9 percent dying in childbirth).

More interesting (and shocking) statistics can be found at the "State of the World's Mothers 2011" report, which can be found here.

Top 10 countries for mothers
1. Norway
2. Australia
2. Iceland
4. Sweden
5. Denmark
6. New Zealand
7. Finland
8. Belgium
9. The Netherlands
10. France

Bottom ten countries for mothers
155. Central African Republic
156. Sudan
157. Mali
158. Eritrea
159. Zaire
160. Chad
161. Yemen
162. Guinea-Bissau
163. Niger
164. Afghanistan