Top 15 Safest Countries in the World (Based on Global Peace Index)

Across the globe, safety remains one of the most prominent factors influencing travel, relocation, investment, and overall quality of life. Each year, the Global Peace Index (GPI)—a leading international benchmark produced by the Institute for Economics and Peace—evaluates countries according to safety, ongoing domestic and international conflict, and militarization.

Drawing on consistently top-performing nations from the Global Peace Index, this article highlights the 15 safest countries in the world, providing a comprehensive and timeless overview of nations renowned for stability, low crime rates, strong governance, and high social trust.

Below, you’ll find detailed insights on why these countries rank among the safest, along with a comparison table, FAQs, and a data-driven summary.

The 15 Safest Countries in the World

1. Iceland

   Iceland consistently holds the top position as one of the world’s safest nations. Low crime, strong social cohesion, and a small population contribute to exceptional stability. Violent crime is scarce, and community trust levels are among the highest globally.
   
   Why it’s safe:
   
   • Nearly zero violent crime
   • High trust in law enforcement
   • Strong social welfare and equality

2. New Zealand

   New Zealand’s peaceful society, robust democratic institutions, and high levels of social trust make it one of the safest destinations in the world.
   
   Why it’s safe:
   
   • Low crime across major cities
   • Transparent governance
   • High respect for the rule of law

3. Denmark

   Denmark’s combination of social equality, low corruption, and community trust helps maintain a secure environment.
   
   Why it’s safe:
   
   • World-leading levels of trust
   • Strong welfare system
   • Extremely low violent crime

4. Portugal

   Portugal has risen steadily in global peace rankings due to stability, friendly communities, and effective policing.
   
   Why it’s safe:
   
   • Calm political environment
   • Low crime rates
   • High safety for tourists and residents

5. Slovenia

   Travel confidently in Slovenia, where a serene culture and minimal crime ensure peace of mind
   
   Why it’s safe:
   
   • Safe cities and rural areas
   • Minimal violent crime
   • High-quality healthcare and welfare

6. Austria

   Austria combines low crime with well-developed institutions and secure borders.
   
   Why it’s safe:
   
   • Efficient law enforcement
   • Strong public services
   • Stable political environment

7. Switzerland

   Neutrality, high income, and strong institutions make Switzerland one of the most secure nations.
   
   Why it’s safe:
   
   • Low crime across all cantons
   • Strong community participation
   • High-quality emergency response systems

8. Japan

   Japan’s cultural focus on mutual respect and order contributes to exceptional public safety.
   
   Why it’s safe:
   
   • Extremely low violent crime
   • Clean, well-policed cities
   • Strong disaster preparedness

9. Canada

   Canada enjoys a high level of safety, supported by robust institutions, multicultural harmony, and professional police services.
   
   Why it’s safe:
   
   • High human rights protection
   • Peaceful cities and communities
   • Respect for diversity

10. Singapore

    Strict laws, efficient policing, and advanced surveillance help Singapore maintain remarkably low crime levels.
    
    Why it’s safe:
    
    • Near-zero violent crime
    • Highly disciplined society
    • Advanced public safety systems

11. Finland

    Finland is renowned for its strong social structures, transparency, and collaborative society.
    
    Why it’s safe:
    
    • Very low crime
    • High trust in government
    • Strong welfare and education systems

12. Czech Republic

    The Czech Republic offers safe cities, efficient policing, and low violent crime.
    
    Why it’s safe:
    
    • Secure border controls
    • Reliable law enforcement
    • Calm political environment

13. Ireland

    Ireland’s welcoming communities, low crime, and transparent public institutions keep it ranked as one of the safest countries.
    
    Why it’s safe:
    
    • Low homicide rates
    • High social trust
    • Peaceful civil society

14. Norway

    Norway’s prosperity, equality, and strong community cohesion contribute to a safe and peaceful environment.
    
    Why it’s safe:
    
    • Low crime
    • Strong public services
    • Stable democratic governance

15. Australia

    Australia enjoys low crime, strong emergency services, and a stable political system.
    
    Why it’s safe:
    
    • Safe major cities
    • High-quality policing
    • Strong disaster management

Safest Countries Based on GPI Indicators

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

The world’s safest countries share common characteristics: strong governance, social trust, low crime, and stable institutions. Whether for travel, migration, or research, these nations represent the highest global standards for peace and security.

For readers seeking secure environments, the countries listed here offer some of the world’s best examples of what peaceful, well-governed societies can achieve.

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