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China, the world's most populous country, fell two spots this year to rank No. 17 overall. It is considered to be the second-most powerful country as well as No. 5 in movers.

Finland ranks No. 18 overall. The country is No. 8 for quality of life, and ranks highly among climate-related metrics and for its emphasis on social justice and equity.

Spain, ranked No. 19 overall, is also considered the No. 1 country for heritage and No. 3 for adventure.

Belgium ranks No. 20 overall. The Western European country ranks highly among gender equality, racial equity and its commitment to social justice, as well as open travel policies and transparent government practices.

Austria ranks No. 21 overall, and is considered the No. 10 best country for social purpose and the No. 11 for trustworthiness.

The United Arab Emirates, one of the most liberal of the Gulf states, ranks No. 22 overall. It is No. 1 in movers and No. 10 in power.

Ireland ranks No. 23 overall, scoring highly for open travel policies and for friendliness, and is one of the happiest countries. It ranks No. 8 in being open for business, as well

Russia, ranking No. 24, is seen as both the third-most powerful country and the most politically influential country in the world.

India ranked No. 25 overall in the U.S. News Best Countries rankings for the second-straight year. It is the world's second most-populous nation and considered to be one of the best up-and-coming economies, at No. 2 in the movers ranking.

While some countries excel when it comes to power, and others offer adventure, the U.S. News Best Countries rankings is an assessment of everything that shapes a country, from its quality of life to its economic potential.