The Most Peaceful Countries in the World (Infographic)

Personal safety and security are two of the most important considerations you will need to make when moving abroad. When researching your destination, you will need to factor in the overall peacefulness of the country. Our infographic lists the top ten safest, most secure destinations across the world according to the latest Global Peace Index.

What is the Global Peace Index?

Analysing 99.7% of the world’s population, The Global Peace Index (GPI) is the world’s leading measure of global peacefulness. It is compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace who use 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators to measure the state of peace in each country according to three key criteria:

1. Societal safety and security
2. Ongoing domestic and international conflict
3. Degree of militarisation

What are the Top 5 Most Peaceful Countries in the World?

According to the 2018 Global Peace Index, the top five safest countries in the world are:

5. Denmark

Consistently voted as one of the happiest places in the world, the Scandinavian country of Denmark was placed fifth in the 2018 GPI. Danes enjoy low crime, excellent income equality and a deep respect for human rights.

4. Austria

The landlocked European nation of Austria has long boasted a top place in the GPI. This is due to its a low crime and homicide rate and positive performance in many areas of wellbeing.

3. Portugal

The pretty European country of Portugal has made enormous strides in the area of peacefulness over the past few decades. Portugal was ranked 3rd in the 2018 GPI due to its extremely low rate of crime and external conflict.

2. New Zealand

Scoring well across all three categories, New Zealand has maintained a top position in the GPI for many years. The country is renowned for its low crime rate and safe cities, and is an ideal location for those seeking a beacon of peace.

1. Iceland

The GPI has placed Iceland as the most peaceful country in the world since 2008. It’s not hard to see why Iceland has stayed top dog all these years, when you consider that its crime rate is close to zero, there is no military and the fact that the police force is unarmed. What’s more, Iceland also boasts a high level of gender equality, a low incarceration rate and a top-quality free education system.