The Humanitarian Response Index gave Sweden the top spot, followed by Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands. The index, compiled by Madrid-based Development Assistance Research Associates, is intended to increase transparency among donors, so that the money can deliver better results.
"I also believe that the index will serve as an indispensable tool and help the humanitarian community improve delivery and impact of humanitarian aid," Annan said at the project's launch in London.
The index ranks the 23 developed countries that endorsed a 2003 treaty that outlined ideal practices for humanitarian giving.
The accord said humanitarian action should be based on need and be independent of political, economic or military objectives. It also said funding should be swift -- and not earmarked for specific projects. The index used hard data, questionnaires and surveys in countries affected by disasters.
Silvia Hildalgo, the nonprofit group's director general, said the organization wanted to create more accountability in humanitarian giving.
"Our intention is not to shame donors ... but to really have a benchmark so we can improve over time," she said.
The rankings were: Sweden, Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, European Commission, Ireland, New Zealand, Canada, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Finland, Luxembourg, Germany, Australia, Belgium, United States, Spain, Japan, France, Austria, Portugal, Italy and Greece.