In a world often fraught with conflict, certain countries stand out for their commitment to peace and stability. These nations not only offer stunning landscapes and rich cultures but also provide a sense of safety and welcome for travellers. The Global Peace Index (GPI), created by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), is the world’s leading measure of global peacefulness. This report offers an extensive, data-driven analysis of peace trends, their economic implications, and strategies for fostering peaceful societies.Let's take a look at some of the most peaceful countries in the world to consider for your next journey:
Iceland consistently ranks as the most peaceful country in the Global Peace Index. Its low crime rate, absence of military forces, and commitment to human rights contribute to its serene environment. The stunning natural beauty - from geysers to waterfalls - coupled with its friendly locals makes it a perfect destination for peaceful travel. To enjoy nature's peaceful environment you can visit Reykjavik, Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Falls, and Kerid Crater in Iceland.
Iceland: The Safest Country in the World
The Global Peace Index (GPI) is an annual report that compares the overall peacefulness and safety of 163 countries and territories. Using 23 different indicators under three categories (called domains in the study): Societal Safety and Security, Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict, and Militarization, GPI ranks each country in the report.
The 2024 report is out, and the results are in. So just where is the safest country in the world?
According to the Global Peace Index, Iceland is the safest country in the world! Technically a part of Europe, Iceland floats on its own near Greenland just below the Arctic Circle.
Iceland is actually very used to sitting at the top of the GPI list. Iceland has claimed the safest country title every year since 2008, enjoying a "very high" state of peace every year. Iceland ranks first or second in all three of the GPI's domains, edging out the competition year after year.
GPI scores follow a "lower is better" scale. Countries want as few points as possible to rank higher on the report. Scores from the three main domains are averaged to determine a country's overall GPI score.
GPI Domain
Score
Rank
Safety and Security
1.238
2
Ongoing Conflict
1.000
1 (tied)
Militarization
1.022
1
Iceland was toppled from the top spot in the Safety and Security domain for the first time by Singapore. Singapore ranked second in Asia and the Pacific Islands and fifth worldwide. Singapore jumped three spots from 2023 to break into the top five for the first time.
Iceland leads the trend across Europe, which ranked as the safest continent in the world on the GPI. Following Iceland's lead, Ireland and Austria claimed spots two and three, respectively.
The Safest Countries in Europe
Rank
Country
GPI Score
1
Iceland
1.112
2
Ireland
1.303
3
Austria
1.313
4
New Zealand
1.323
5
Singapore
1.339
Curious about how the United States fared? The US ranked 132 out of 163 countries and territories, scoring 2.622.
While the GPI has given Iceland top marks in each of its technical categories, what do these safety metrics mean for those visiting Iceland?
Why is Iceland So Safe?
Iceland has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, with traffic offenses making up the majority of reported crimes in the country. The rate of these and other non-violent crimes in Iceland is still well below the average in Europe, and certainly below the worldwide average.
One of Iceland's most impressive statistics is its low homicide rate. From 2010 to 2022, Iceland never had a homicide rate above 1.37 per 100,000 residents. Iceland has also had several years with zero intentional homicides, with the most recent occurrence happening in 2008.
Total Number of Crimes Reported (2022)
74,765
Homicide Rate (2022)
1.06 per 100,000 people
Traffic Offenses (2021)
~64,000
Iceland got a perfect score in the GPI Militarization domain because there is no military to mobilize. That's right, Iceland does not have a military, and their police force of around 660 officers also doesn't carry guns with them.
Iceland has few, if any, major internal or external conflicts. It is not currently feuding with any other countries, and there are no major political struggles within Iceland.
This is good news for travelers, who don't have to worry about becoming a prisoner as warring areas look to make political statements. It also means that misunderstandings due to language barriers are less likely to turn violent.
As the safest country in the world, nearly every corner of this island country is safe to visit. Still, some parts of Iceland are particularly well known for their safety, especially for solo travelers and those exploring at night.
The Safest Places in Iceland
Perhaps the most notably safe city in Iceland is its capital, Reykjavík. Capital cities around the world have a bit of a reputation, with high-density areas and generally higher crime rates than surrounding towns.
Reykjavík is considered one of the safest cities in the world, with a safety score of 75.72, according to Numbeo. Reykjavík is one of the few cities in the world with no established "unsafe" areas.
That doesn't mean visiting Reykjavík is entering a bubble. Reykjavík has a variety of activities to enjoy and unique sights to explore, making it perfect for those who may be less experienced with international travel.
Reykjavík is also popular thanks to its central location, which makes a variety of Iceland's natural landscapes easy to reach. Since Iceland does not have Uber or Lyft, tourists are on their own on the roads, so having a safe "base" location is a must.
Reykjavík Safety Score
75.72
Safe Things to Do in Reykjavík
Whales of Iceland, National Museum of Iceland, Blue Lagoon, Harpa
On the opposite side of the island from the capital lies some of Iceland's hidden gems, including Akureyri. Significantly smaller than Reykjavík, Akureyri is one of many more moderately sized towns that highlights why Iceland is the quietest country in the world.
With a relaxing pace and cozy feel, Akureyri is inviting and, like the rest of Iceland, incredibly safe for visitors. As one of the most charming towns to visit in Iceland besides Reykjavík, Akureyri is full of activity and unique sites.
Attractions like the botanical gardens provide plenty to do in Akureyri, while the wild landscapes nearby offer more thrilling activities.
Akureyri Safety Score
75.08
Safe Things to Do in Akureyri
Forest Lagoon, Akureyri Botanical Garden, Horseback Riding Tours, Whale Watching Tours
Thankfully, all of Iceland's cities are exceptionally safe for local and international visitors. Reykjavík and Akureyri highlight how some of Iceland's most unique towns offer very different but equally safe Icelandic experiences.
Also known as the Land of Fire and Ice, this country is more like a workshop where nature forges incredible wonders.
Iceland is the safest country in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. Iceland has commanded the top spot every year for more than ten years, thanks to low crime rates, no militarization, and lack of internal or external conflict.
From the capital city of Reykjavík to smaller towns like Akureyri, every city in Iceland is safe for travelers, but that doesn't mean they are boring. Whether ziplining or touring museums, there is plenty to love about Iceland as the world's safest travel destination.
References: Global Peace Index, Numbeo, Statistica
