When we think of traveling to a new destination, the first thing that comes to mind is how safe the country is. Similarly, those who are planning to migrate consider the safety of the country as the most important factor. Therefore, I have prepared a list of the safest countries in the world following the latest Global Peace Index 2022. The top 10 safest countries in the world in 2023 are Iceland, New Zealand, Ireland, Denmark, Austria, Portugal, Czech Republic, Slovenia, Singapore, and Japan. These countries have low crime rates and stable political systems, making them ideal destinations for travelers and expats alike.
Methodology
Choosing the safest country in the world requires careful consideration of various factors. The Global Peace Index (GPI) is a valuable resource for evaluating a country’s level of safety. Australian technology entrepreneur and philanthropist Steve Killelea founded the GPI. The Institute for Economics and Peace produces the Global Peace Index report every year. The report provides data, insights and ranking for 163 countries.
The GPI measures a country’s level of Negative Peace using three domains of peacefulness. The domains are ongoing domestic and international conflict, social safety and security, and militarization. Under each domain, there are several indicators for evaluation. These indicators include conflicts, crime rate, political stability, displacement and military build-up.
We have also evaluated the HDI (Human Development Index) rankings of these countries. This index serves as a comprehensive measure for assessing the progress made in three critical dimensions of human development: the ability to lead a healthy and extended life, access to education and knowledge, and maintaining a decent standard of living.
List of the top 10 safest countries in the world [GPI]
Table: Global Peace Index 2022 Domain Score of the top 10 safest countries in the world. The lower the better.
Here are the details:
Iceland, the safest country in the world
Human Development Index Ranking (2023) : 3
US State Department Travel Advisory: Exercise normal precautions
Global Organized Crime Index Ranking ( 2021): 166
Iceland is the most peaceful country in the world. This Nordic island nation is prominent for its low crime rate and high levels of social welfare, making it one of the safest countries in the world. Iceland is also at the top of the safest countries in Europe. It has been at the top position since 2008. Iceland has seen a positive change of 3.4 percent in its GPI score. Of particular significance are the improvements in indicators for violent demonstrations and perceptions of criminality.
After recording its highest score in 2021, Iceland has witnessed a remarkable 55 percent decrease in its score for violent demonstrations. Furthermore, its perceptions of criminality score now ranks among the ten lowest globally, reflecting a positive trend in overall safety and peace. The country has a stable political system and is also relatively safe from natural disasters. This land of fire and ice is one of the top cool countries to visit in the world.
New Zealand
Human Development Index Ranking (2023) : 13
US State Department Travel Advisory: Exercise normal precautions
Global Organized Crime Index Ranking ( 2021): 172
New Zealand is the 2nd most peaceful country in the world. With its stunning natural beauty and friendly locals, New Zealand is not only a popular tourist destination but also one of the safest countries in the world. Its crime rate is low, and it has a stable political system and good healthcare infrastructure. It is also the fourth-best country to live in.
However, there has been a noticeable rise in thefts from unattended vehicles, particularly hire cars and camper vans, in popular tourist areas such as the Coromandel Peninsula, Rotorua, and Queenstown. Additionally, some tourist areas have witnessed an increase in thefts from hotel rooms.
Crime emergency line 111.
Ireland
Human Development Index Ranking (2023): 8
US State Department Travel Advisory: Exercise normal precautions
Global Organized Crime Index Ranking ( 2021): 95
This small island nation in Europe is known for its friendly people and beautiful countryside. It has a low crime rate and a stable political system, making it a safe place to live and visit.
In Ireland, crimes involve petty theft, burglary, and other minor offenses. Most incidents occur in the Dublin area.
Crime emergency line 999 or 112.
Denmark, the 4th most peaceful country in the world
Human Development Index Ranking (2023) : 6
US State Department Travel Advisory: Exercise normal precautions
Global Organized Crime Index Ranking ( 2021): 150
This Scandinavian country is known for its high quality of life, and it is also one of the safest countries in the world. It has a low crime rate and a stable political system, making it an attractive place to live and work.
It is important to remain cautious of pickpockets and bag-snatchers, particularly in crowded areas, primarily around Copenhagen. Thieves employ various tactics to distract individuals, especially when embarking and disembarking from crowded public transportation. They also take advantage of opportunities in hotel lobbies, cafes, and restaurants. Central station, Nørreport Station, and Strøget, the main shopping street, along with tourist-frequented areas like Christiania, Nyhavn, and Kongens Nytorv, are more susceptible to this type of crime. Pickpockets also operate within Kastrup Airport.
Exercise extra caution in Christiania and Nørrebro, particularly during late-night hours. These areas have experienced instances of gang violence.
Austria
Human Development Index Ranking (2023) : 25
US State Department Travel Advisory: Exercise normal precautions
Global Organized Crime Index Ranking ( 2021): 141
Austria is the 5th most peaceful country in the world, according to Global Peace Index 2022. This Central European country is known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, and high standard of living. It has a low crime rate and a stable political system, making it a safe and welcoming country for visitors and residents alike.
In Austria, it is important to remain cautious as crimes of opportunity involving theft of personal property can occur. These incidents often take place in tourist areas, including the plaza surrounding St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the nearby pedestrian shopping districts in Vienna’s First District.
Demonstrations are a common occurrence in Austria. They can arise in response to political or economic issues, coincide with politically significant holidays, or take place during international events. Stay informed about any ongoing demonstrations and exercise caution when in the vicinity of such events.
Crime emergency line 133
Portugal
Human Development Index Ranking (2023) : 38
US State Department Travel Advisory: Exercise normal precautions
Global Organized Crime Index Ranking ( 2021): 117
This Mediterranean country is famous for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and historic cities. It has a low crime rate and a stable political system, making it a safe and welcoming country for tourists and expats.
In Portugal, certain types of crimes are prevalent in major tourist areas. Pickpocketing, handbag snatching, and theft from cars and holiday properties are common occurrences, often accompanied by acts of violence. Particular vigilance is advised when using public transportation, especially on popular routes such as the numbers 15 and 28 trams in Lisbon. Additionally, exercise caution at busy railway and underground stations, as well as crowded bus and tram stops.
While personal attacks, including sexual assaults, are rare in Portugal, they can still occur. It is advisable to purchase your own drinks and ensure you always keep them in sight to prevent the possibility of them being spiked.
Crime emergency line 112
Slovenia, the 7th most peaceful country in the world
Human Development Index Ranking (2023) : 23
US State Department Travel Advisory: Exercise normal precautions
Global Organized Crime Index Ranking ( 2021): 132
This small European country is known for its stunning natural beauty and friendly people. It has a low crime rate and a stable political system, making it a safe and welcoming country for visitors and residents alike.
The most common type of crime in Slovenia is petty theft, such as bag snatching and pick-pocketing. These crimes are most likely to occur in major tourist areas, such as Ljubljana. Visitors should be careful not to carry too much cash or valuables with them.
According to the latest Slovenia Country Security Report issued by the US, in Slovenia, it is frequent for individuals known as “cabaret girls” or “artistes” to have connections to or become targets of the commercial sex industry and organized crime groups. Those who visit cabarets or interact with these “artistes” may experience exorbitant drink prices, especially when paying by credit card, and face threats if they refuse to pay.
Crime emergency line 113
Czech Republic
Human Development Index Ranking (2023): 32
US State Department Travel Advisory: Exercise normal precautions
Global Organized Crime Index Ranking ( 2021): 112
Czech Republic is the 8th safest country in the world. This Central European country is popular for its historic cities, beautiful countryside, and rich cultural heritage. It has a low crime rate and a stable political system, making it a safe and attractive place to live and visit.
The most common type of crime is petty theft, including bag snatching and pick-pocketing. These crimes are most likely to occur in major tourist areas, such as the Charles Bridge (Karlův most) area, Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí), Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí), and the Prague Castle district (Hradčany).
Beware of bogus plain-clothes police who may want to check your passport and foreign currency. If you have suspicions about any such encounter, you can call 158 or 112 to verify their identity.
Singapore
Human Development Index Ranking (2023): 12
US State Department Travel Advisory: Exercise normal precautions
Global Organized Crime Index Ranking ( 2021): 174
Singapore is the 9th most peaceful country in the world. This Southeast Asian city-state is prominent for its high-tech economy, efficient public transportation, and low crime rate. It also has a stable political system and is relatively safe from natural disasters, making it one of the safest countries in the world and the number one in the list of the top 10 safest countries in Asia. Singapore is also the richest country in Asia.
The most common type of crime in Singapore is street crime, such as bag snatching and pick-pocketing. Visitors should be careful not to carry too much cash or valuables with them, and they should keep their belongings close to them at all times. It is also a good idea to leave valuables in a hotel safe if possible.
According to UK foreign travel advice (updated on February 10, 2023) violent crime is rare in Singapore, but it does happen. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid becoming a victim of violence. For example, they should avoid walking alone at night, and they should not get into fights or arguments with strangers.
Japan, the 10th safest country in the world
Human Development Index Ranking (2023): 19
US State Department Travel Advisory: Exercise normal precautions
Global Organized Crime Index Ranking ( 2021): 118
This East Asian country is eminent for its unique culture, stunning natural beauty, and high standard of living. Japan is also the third strongest economy in the world.
Japan is known for its stable political system with rare civil disturbances and violent demonstrations, there have been instances where demonstrations of a pro-nationalist nature can lead to hostility towards foreign countries. It is important to stay updated on any developments and be aware of any ongoing protests. If you do happen to come across a protest, it is recommended to avoid the area for safety purposes.
Japan has a low crime rate. However, at night, Tokyo’s entertainment districts are considered high-risk areas for crime. There have been cases of extortion, sexual assault, drink spiking, and credit card fraud in bars and clubs.
Emergency numbers: Police – 110. Fire or Ambulance – 119.
Summary of ‘ Safest Countries in the World-Top 10’
According to Global Peace Index 2022, the top 10 safest countries in the world are Iceland, New Zealand, Ireland, Denmark, Austria, Portugal, Slovenia, Czech Republic, Singapore, and Japan.
These countries provide a high level of safety and security to their residents and visitors. From low crime rates to stable political systems, these countries are well-equipped to handle any challenges that may arise. If you’re looking for a safe place to live or visit, you can’t go wrong with any of these top 10 safest countries in the world.
Safest Countries in the World-Top 10: FAQs
What is the number 1 safest country?
Based on the most recent Global Peace Index, Iceland ranks as the top country in terms of safety, making it an ideal destination for living or visiting.
Which is the safest country in Asia?
Based on the most recent Global Peace Index, Singapore ranks as the top Asian country in terms of safety, making it an ideal destination for living or visiting.
What is the safest country in Europe?
Iceland is the safest country in Europe. It has held the position since 2008.
