Each year, the Global Peace Index (GPI) evaluates and ranks countries according to their levels of safety. Despite global unrest, certain nations continue to uphold high security standards.
A country’s peacefulness is determined by factors like conflict levels, crime rates, and political stability. The GPI evaluates safety through indicators such as homicide rates, terrorism risk, and military expenditure.
For example, Iceland ranks high due to minimal crime and no military, while Denmark excels with community-focused welfare. New Zealand consistently maintains safety, and has no venomous snakes.
Top 7 Safest Countries in the World
Iceland
For 15 years running, Iceland stands as the world’s safest nation, where people are more focused on hot spring baths than causing disturbances. Recently, its GPI score reached 1.112. The country’s success is underpinned by social trust, equality, and almost uncanny harmony among its 382,000 residents.
Crime is very rare, largely due to a sense of community and excellent police training. In fact, Icelandic police don’t carry firearms, armed instead with pepper spray and batons – tools seldom used.
Gender equality, legal same-sex marriage, and no military forces are also notable features.
Visitors will appreciate the attention remaining on glaciers, the Northern Lights or Reynisfjara’s black sand beaches, without concerns about theft or unrest.
Ireland
Famed for its pubs and green hills, Ireland also excels in safety. It ranks second globally with a GPI score of 1.303. Crime is mostly limited to petty theft in tourist-heavy spots like Dublin, leaving the rest to enjoy safer tranquility.
Possible hazards come more from natural elements like slippery cliffs and unpredictable rains than violence. Ireland shifted dramatically from 11th place in 2021 to its current distinction.
Travelers are free to roam ancient castles or take on the Wild Atlantic Way with fewer worries. However, remain wary of roads during rainy conditions.
Austria
Austria ranks third, with a GPI score of 1.313. Vienna enjoys a reputation for calm, with violent offenses being a rarity. The tourism sector flourishes thanks to this atmosphere.
Away from crowded areas, pickpocketing is minimal. The country’s low crime rates ensure delightful visits with lasting positive memories.
Sitting smack in the middle of Europe, Austria is surrounded by eight neighbours. Its features include the mighty Alps and broad meadows, perfect for anyone who likes dramatic views and countries that don’t mind sharing borders.
Tourists flock to the mountains, classical music festivals, and grand museums. Austrian mix of history, peace, and art spices up any travel plan.
New Zealand
On the fourth position with a GPI score of 1.323, New Zealand is as appealing as it seems, with safety records confirming the allure. Except for minor theft in tourist areas, crime is hardly an issue.
Like in Iceland, police usually do not carry guns, revealing the laid-back nature of the place.
Nature lovers can hike freely, safe from venomous snakes which are absent here. The country also champions inclusivity, free speech and expression.
Visitors to New Zealand can check out Hobbiton or Fiordland National Park with peace of mind. It’s a destination where beauty and freedom coexist seamlessly.
Singapore
Though its GPI score of 1.339 ranks it fifth, Singapore demonstrates how governance achieves safety.
Crime is more or less nonexistent, thanks to stringent penalties for even minor infractions.
Strict gun laws nearly wipe out violent criminal behaviour: this place is an orderly sanctuary. Law enforcement commands high public trust.
The cleanliness and efficiency of Singapore are additional perks for tourists. Marina Bay and Sentosa Island are top choices for exploring, but avoid public littering or chewing gum to dodge fines.
Switzerland
Switzerland secures the sixth position as one of the safest countries with a GPI score of 1.350. Famous for its neutrality and precision, it is a symbol of peace and stability. Residents enjoy an orderly lifestyle, where safety is as reliable as a Swiss watch.
With access to excellent healthcare and high-quality education, Switzerland supports its citizens to thrive comfortably. Corruption is virtually absent, as trust and transparency dominate both politics and business in this alpine refuge.
Tourists can wander through its mountains, lakes and towns with peace of mind, knowing safety isn’t a concern. That is unless they’re navigating the labyrinth of Swiss train schedules.
Portugal
Portugal shines with a GPI score of 1.372 in seventh place: it’s an impressive leap from 18th in 2014. Its safety and overall stability secure its current standing.
Armed police maintain street security, without frequently drawing their weapons. As an emerging retirement haven, the sunny climate pairs with economic incentives and security.
Guests can enjoy Lisbon’s or Porto’s streets, the Douro Valley vineyards or Algarve coastline, unperturbed by crime. Because of this, and the country’s reputation for warmth and elegance, Portugal is even more desirable destination.
Safety first
With impressive stats in everything from low crime rates to solid governance and unparalleled public trust, it’s clear that some nations take safety about as seriously as people take free Wi-Fi.
It’s the absence of physical threats, a sense of equality, plus an exceptional ability to stay out of trouble, indicating that safety isn’t just a perk. They set the bar so high, the rest of the world might need a step stool just to see it.