The 12 Safest Countries in the World in 2024 (And What Makes Them So Safe)

safest countries in the world

In a world dominated by headlines of conflict and unrest, a select group of nations stands out. These are the safest countries in the world – where peace isn’t just an ideal, but a daily reality.

These nations have created secure, harmonious societies. But what are their secrets? Let’s explore the top 12 safest countries, uncovering the unique factors that make them havens of peace in a turbulent world.

For 2024, the safest countries in the world (in descending order) are:

  1. Iceland
  2. Ireland
  3. Austria
  4. New Zealand
  5. Singapore
  6. Switzerland
  7. Portugal
  8. Denmark
  9. Slovenia
  10. Malaysia
  11. Canada
  12. Czechia

I’ve personally experienced traveling to over half of the countries in this list (plus 40+ more during my two-decade travel career).

For this article, I also draw on data from the 2024 edition of the Global Peace Index – one of the most comprehensive sources available.

What’s the Safest Place to Live in the World?

Iceland is the safest place to live in the world. It ranks number one on the latest 2024 edition of the Global Peace Index, with a score of 1.112. It’s held that same position for the last decade.

Understanding the Global Peace Index

The Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) releases its Global Peace Index every year. The latest edition was released in June 2024.

The Global Peace Index is one of the best ways to evaluate how safe countries are. (For contrast, here’s our roundup of most dangerous countries in the world)

The Global Peace Index ranks 163 countries on their levels of peacefulness. ‘Peacefulness’ is made up of several factors, including the following:

  • Number of violent deaths
  • Impact of terrorism
  • Nuclear capability
  • Conditions of peace
  • Social security
  • Internal conflicts
  • International relations

Despite the war in Ukraine on Europe’s doorstep, EU/EEA countries still dominate the Global Peace Index.

In fact, our list of safest countries in the world for 2024 includes 7 EU/EEA countries among the top 10.

It’s easy to imagine what a valuable asset it would be to have free access to all countries in the EU and EEA (and Switzerland).

EU citizenship gives its holders freedom to live, work, study, and retire without any restriction across some of the safest countries in the world – with some of the world’s most powerful passports!

So without any further ado, let’s look at our list of 12 safest countries in the world in 2024.

The 12 Safest Countries in The World (And What Exactly Makes Them So Safe)

Iceland takes the crown for the safest country in the world, followed by Ireland, Austria, New Zealand, and Singapore in the top five.

But what exactly makes these 12 countries so safe? Let’s examine them all in more detail.

#1. Iceland

In a land where volcanoes rumble beneath glaciers, Iceland has mastered an even more impressive balancing act: maintaining its position as the world’s most peaceful country.

This island nation of just over 360,000 people, perched on the edge of the Arctic Circle, has topped the Global Peace Index for an astounding 16 consecutive years.

Iceland’s peace is as vast as its otherworldly landscapes. In the 2024 Global Peace Index, it scored a near-perfect 1.112, excelling across all domains. But what makes this Nordic nation so remarkably tranquil?

Part of the answer lies in Iceland’s unique social fabric. With a population smaller than many cities, Icelanders have cultivated a society built on trust, equality, and community.

In fact, crime rates are so low that police rarely carry guns, and the country’s prison population could fit in a small apartment block.

Iceland’s political scene is as steady as its ancient lava fields. A robust democracy with high citizen participation, the country has avoided the polarization plaguing many Western nations. Debates here are more likely to center on sustainable fishing quotas than divisive political ideologies.

Economically, Iceland’s peace dividend is substantial. The cost of violence to its economy is among the lowest globally, allowing resources to be channeled into education, healthcare, and renewable energy.

It’s a country where budgetary discussions about defense are overshadowed by investments in geothermal power plants.

Key factors making Iceland so peaceful include:

  • A strong welfare system reducing social inequality
  • High levels of education and civic engagement
  • Gender equality (it’s consistently ranked as the world’s most gender-equal country)
  • An unarmed police force and lack of standing army

For the few expats lucky enough to call Iceland home, the country offers an unparalleled quality of life.

It’s a place where children roam freely, doors are often left unlocked, and the biggest threat to personal safety might be an unexpected volcanic eruption or a particularly feisty wind.

Iceland’s unique geography and small population make its peace model challenging to replicate exactly. But its commitment to social cohesion, equality, and diplomacy offers valuable lessons for nations worldwide.

#2. Ireland

The Emerald Isle, famous for its rolling green hills and rich literary traditions, has added another jewel to its crown – ranking as the second most peaceful country in the world.

This achievement might surprise those who are familiar with Ireland’s turbulent history.

In a remarkable turnaround, the nation that once grappled with “The Troubles” has transformed itself into a beacon of tranquility, securing the second spot in the 2024 Global Peace Index with a score of 1.303.

How did Ireland pull off this feat? The answer lies in a potent blend of economic prosperity, political maturity, and a culture that has learned to cherish peace after experiencing its absence.

Ireland’s journey to peace is reflected in its stellar performance across various indicators:

  1. Low militarization: With no standing army and limited military expenditure, Ireland channels resources into social development rather than defense.
  2. Political stability: Despite coalition governments being the norm, Ireland maintains a robust democratic system with smooth power transitions.
  3. Low crime rates: Irish streets are among the safest in Europe, with violent crime a rarity.
  4. Strong international relations: As a neutral country, Ireland plays a respected role in international diplomacy and peacekeeping efforts.

The economic impact of this peaceful environment is significant. Ireland’s cost of violence is a mere 2.86% of its GDP, allowing it to invest heavily in education, healthcare, and technology sectors. This peace dividend has helped transform Ireland into one of Europe’s most dynamic economies.

For residents and visitors alike, Ireland’s peacefulness translates into a high quality of life. It’s a place where ancient traditions coexist with cutting-edge innovation, where pub discussions are more likely to revolve around poetry than politics, and where the warmth of community remains a central value.

Challenges remain, of course. Housing shortages, healthcare system strains, and the lingering shadows of historical divisions calls for ongoing attention.

But Ireland’s commitment to addressing these issues through dialogue and democratic processes underscores its peaceful approach.

Ireland’s peace is palpable, from the bustling streets of Dublin to the quiet corners of Connemara. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when a nation chooses reconciliation over conflict, diplomacy over force, and community over division.

In Ireland, the legendary luck of the Irish has been replaced by something far more valuable: a hard-won and carefully nurtured peace that inspires nations worldwide.

Could you be eligible for Irish citizenship? Find out in our guide to getting an Irish passport.

#3. Austria

Often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, Austria has silently climbed to third place in the 2024 Global Peace Index with a score of 1.313.

Austria’s rise in the rankings – up one spot from the previous year – is the result of a long-standing commitment to stability and neutrality.

Several key factors contribute to Austria’s peaceful status:

  1. Political Stability: Austria’s consensus-based politics ensures that radical shifts are rare and power transitions smooth.
  2. Social Cohesion: A comprehensive social welfare system helps mitigate inequality, reducing potential sources of conflict.
  3. Neutrality: Since 1955, Austria’s constitutional neutrality has kept it out of military alliances and conflicts, focusing instead on diplomacy and mediation.
  4. Low Crime Rates: Austrian cities consistently rank among the safest in the world, with violent crime a rarity.

The economic benefits of this peaceful society are substantial. The cost of violence to Austria’s economy is notably low, allowing for significant investment in education, healthcare, and cultural institutions.

This “peace dividend” contributes to Austria’s high standard of living and its ability to maintain its rich cultural heritage.

For residents and visitors, Austria’s peacefulness is evident in everyday life. It’s seen in the casual late-night strolls through Vienna’s streets, the unhurried conversations in sidewalk cafes, and the general sense of security that permeates both urban and rural areas.

But Austria’s peace isn’t without its challenges. The country grapples with issues such as integrating immigrants, addressing far-right sentiments, and balancing neutrality with European Union obligations.

Nevertheless, Austria’s commitment to addressing these issues through democratic processes and dialogue underscores its peaceful approach.

From the historic streets of Vienna to the Alpine villages of Tyrol, Austria’s peace is a tangible presence. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when a nation prioritizes diplomacy over conflict, social welfare over inequality, and cultural understanding over division.

#4. New Zealand

New Zealand, a nation where sheep outnumber humans and the prime minister can be spotted grocery shopping without security, ranks fourth in the 2024 Global Peace Index with a score of 1.323.

This high ranking, despite dropping one place from last year, underscores the country’s commitment to peace and safety.

New Zealand’s approach to tranquility is pragmatic and deeply ingrained in its society:

  1. Political Stability: New Zealand’s parliamentary democracy is known for its transparency and lack of corruption. Political transitions are smooth, and there’s little internal unrest.
  2. Low Militarization: With no immediate external threats due to its isolated location in the southwest Pacific Ocean, New Zealand maintains a small but effective defense force.
  3. Social Cohesion: Despite its colonial history, New Zealand has made significant strides in addressing indigenous rights and promoting multiculturalism.
  4. Low Crime Rate: The country’s relatively small population contributes to a low crime rate, making it one of the safest places to live.
  5. Freedom: New Zealand is rated as one of the world’s freest countries, balancing personal liberties with social responsibility.

The economic impact of this peaceful environment is substantial. New Zealand’s cost of violence is low, allowing for investments in education, healthcare, and innovative industries.

For residents, New Zealand’s peace manifests in everyday life. It’s a place where police officers might stop to help change a tire, and where the biggest threat to public safety might be natural disasters rather than human-made conflicts.

Speaking of natural disasters, New Zealand faces risks from earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

But strict building codes help protect against earthquake damage, and most New Zealanders are well-prepared for potential disasters. This preparedness reflects the country’s proactive approach to safety and community resilience.

New Zealand’s peace is as diverse as its landscapes, from the bustling cafes of Wellington to the serene fjords of the South Island. It speaks to the great things a nation can achieve when it combines pragmatism with compassion, and when it values social harmony as much as economic growth.

In New Zealand, peace isn’t just a state of being—it’s a way of life. And perhaps that is the country’s most remarkable achievement of all.

#5. Singapore

Singapore, a tiny island nation barely larger than Manhattan, has climbed to fifth place in the 2024 Global Peace Index with a score of 1.339.

This improvement from previous years cements its position as the safest country in Asia, proving that size isn’t everything when it comes to peace.

Singapore’s approach to safety and order is as efficient as its world-renowned public transportation system.

Here are the key factors that play a role:

  1. Low Crime Rates: Singapore boasts one of the lowest crime rates globally. In fact, the Global Peace Index ranks it first in the Safety and Security domain, with a near-perfect score of 1.213.
  2. Effective Law Enforcement: The Singapore Police Force is highly efficient, maintaining a visible presence and quick response times. Their effectiveness is a key factor in the country’s top ranking in the ‘perceptions of criminality’ indicator.
  3. Strict Legal System: Singapore’s zero-tolerance approach to crime, coupled with severe punishments, serves as a powerful deterrent. This is reflected in its low incarceration rate, indicating that prevention is as important as punishment.
  4. Gun Control: Stringent gun laws contribute to extremely low levels of violent crime, making Singapore one of the safest places in terms of personal security.
  5. Social Cohesion: Despite its diverse population, Singapore maintains harmony through policies promoting racial and religious integration. This contributes to its high score in the ‘political stability’ indicator.
  6. Economic Stability: Singapore’s strong economy and low unemployment rate reduce potential sources of social unrest, contributing to its overall peacefulness.

For residents and visitors, Singapore’s peace is palpable in its spotless streets, efficient public services, and the general sense of security that pervades the city-state.

It’s a place where children can safely take public transport alone and where leaving a laptop unattended in a café isn’t an immediate cause for panic.

The economic impact of this peaceful environment is substantial. Singapore’s cost of violence is only 5.45% of its GDP, allowing for significant investments in education, healthcare, and cutting-edge infrastructure.

But Singapore’s peace does indeed come with trade-offs. Some critics argue that strict laws and social controls can limit personal freedoms. The key challenge for Singapore is maintaining its safety and order while adapting to evolving societal expectations.

Singapore’s peace is woven into the fabric of daily life. It’s evident in the late-night joggers in East Coast Park, the families picnicking in the Botanic Gardens, and the mixed crowds sharing tables at hawker centers.

This harmony isn’t just a byproduct of Singapore’s success—it’s a fundamental pillar of the nation’s strategy.

#6. Switzerland

Switzerland, a country as famous for its neutrality as its chocolate, ranks sixth in the 2024 Global Peace Index with a score of 1.350.

This landlocked nation, nestled in the Alps, has long been a symbol of stability in a sometimes turbulent continent.

Switzerland’s approach to peace involves the following factors:

  1. Political Neutrality: Switzerland’s long-standing policy of armed neutrality has kept it out of international conflicts for over two centuries. This is reflected in its high score in the ‘external conflicts fought’ indicator.
  2. Direct Democracy: The Swiss political system, with its frequent referendums, gives citizens a strong voice in decision-making, contributing to high levels of political stability and low levels of internal conflict.
  3. Federalism: The country’s federal structure allows for local autonomy, helping to manage potential tensions between different linguistic and cultural groups.
  4. Low Crime Rates: Switzerland consistently ranks among the countries with the lowest crime rates in Europe, contributing to its high score in the Safety and Security domain.
  5. Economic Stability: With a robust economy and low unemployment, Switzerland minimizes potential sources of social unrest. Its banking sector, while sometimes controversial, contributes to global financial stability.

For residents and visitors, Swiss peace manifests in unexpected ways. It’s a country where doors are often left unlocked, where children independently commute to school, and where the president can be spotted using public transport without a security detail.

Switzerland’s peace isn’t without its challenges. The country is dealing with issues such as integration of immigrants, maintaining neutrality in an interconnected world, and balancing privacy with international cooperation in financial matters.

Switzerland’s unique brand of peace is visible in the multilingual conversations on intercity trains, the orderly queues at ski lifts, and the calm efficiency of its cities.

In Switzerland, peace is a carefully maintained national asset, as central to the country’s identity as its mountains and lakes. It’s a reminder that sometimes, staying out of conflicts can be the most powerful statement a nation can make.

Switzerland also has one of the world’s strongest passports. Although it’s not an EU member state, having Swiss citizenship gives you the same rights to live, work, study and retire anywhere in the EU or EEA.

#7. Portugal

Portugal is popular for its stunning scenery, Mediterranean climate, and laid-back vibes. But in recent years, Portugal has also been receiving attention for another reason: its safety.

According to the latest Global Peace Index, Portugal is ranked the seventh safest country in the world. So what makes Portugal so safe?

One factor is the low level of income inequality. In Portugal, the wealthiest 20% of households earn just 7.5 times more than the poorest 20%. This compares favorably to other developed countries like the United States, where the richest 20% earn nearly 12 times more than the poorest 20%.

Income inequality has been linked to higher levels of crime and violence, so Portugal’s relatively equal distribution of wealth may help to explain its low crime rate.

The country also benefits from a strong rule of law. In Portugal, property rights are well-protected and government corruption is relatively rare. This creates a stable environment that discourages crime and promotes economic growth.

Portugal also has a long history of peaceful relations with its neighbors.

It hasn’t been directly involved in a major war for over 200 years, and the government remains committed to resolving disputes through diplomacy rather than force. All of these factors combine to create a safe and welcoming environment in Portugal.

Portugal has a range of accessible residency visa options – such as the D7 visa, Golden Visa, or HQA Visa– making it a great place for those seeking a safe haven in Europe.

Does Portugal appeal to you as a place to live? Check out our 2024 guide on moving to Portugal.

Madeira

Madeira deserves a special mention as one of the absolute safest spots in Portugal.

Madeira is one of the safest parts of Portugal for several reasons. First, its location, over 1,000 km from the Portuguese mainland, which makes it less accessible to criminals. Anyone committing a crime on Madeira would find it difficult to escape before being caught.

Second, the island has a small population and no crime families or gangs, so there are fewer opportunities for crime. In fact, Madeira is virtually crime-free!

Lastly, Madeira has a strong police presence, and the government has invested heavily in security measures. Personally, I feel 100% safe walking around the Madeira capital, Funchal, at any time of the day or night.

Interested in moving to Madeira? Check out our Living in Madeira guide.

#8. Denmark

Denmark, land of hygge and happiness, secures the 8th spot in the 2024 Global Peace Index with a score of 1.382.

Here’s what’s included in Denmark’s recipe for tranquility:

  1. Strong Social Fabric: Denmark’s robust welfare state and high levels of social trust contribute significantly to its peaceful status. The country ranks highly in the ‘social capital’ indicator, reflecting strong community bonds.
  2. Political Stability: With a long history of democratic governance and coalition-building, Denmark enjoys remarkably stable politics. This is evident in its high score in the ‘political stability’ indicator.
  3. Low Crime Rates: Danish cities are among the safest in the world, with very low levels of violent crime. This contributes to Denmark’s strong performance in the Safety and Security domain.
  4. Effective Governance: Transparency and low levels of corruption in government institutions foster trust between citizens and the state, reducing potential sources of conflict.
  5. International Cooperation: Despite not being a military superpower, Denmark actively participates in international peacekeeping efforts, reflecting its commitment to global stability.

According to the Global Peace Index report, Denmark’s economic ‘cost of violence’ is approximately 4.44% of its GDP. This low figure allows Denmark to invest heavily in social services, education, and green technology.

For residents and visitors, Danish peace is palpable in daily life. It’s visible in the streams of cyclists navigating city streets without fear, in the trust parents place in the education system, and in the calm, rational debates that characterize political discourse.

But Denmark isn’t without challenges. The country grapples with issues of integration for its immigrant population and faces the task of maintaining its generous welfare system in an era of global economic pressures.

Denmark’s peace is as much a part of the landscape as its famous design aesthetics. It’s reflected in the collective shrug at spotting a royal family member cycling through the city, and in the national concept of ‘frisind‘ – a spirit of free thinking and tolerance.

In Denmark, peace is a way of life, as essential to the national character as bicycles and open-faced sandwiches. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the quietest nations have the most to teach us about creating harmonious societies.

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#9. Slovenia

Slovenia stands out for its exceptional peacefulness. This small Central European country, home to just over 2 million people, consistently ranks among the world’s most peaceful nations.

In the 2024 Global Peace Index, Slovenia placed 9th globally. It particularly excels in safety and security, ranking 8th in this category. These high scores reflect the country’s low rates of violent crime and internal conflict.

Slovenia’s political environment is stable. As a European Union member since 2004, it benefits from regional cooperation, which bolsters its peaceful status. The country maintains good relationships with neighboring states, contributing to regional stability.

Economically, Slovenia’s peace dividend is substantial. The cost of violence to its economy is low, estimated at only 5.56% of GDP. This efficiency allows more resources to be directed towards productive activities rather than conflict management.

Several factors contribute to Slovenia’s peaceful character:

  • Effective government institutions
  • Low corruption levels
  • High living standards
  • Relatively low military spending

For those considering relocation, Slovenia offers a secure environment with a high quality of life. Its commitment to peace, combined with its natural beauty and central European location, makes it an appealing destination.

Slovenia’s consistent performance in peace rankings over the years demonstrates a sustained commitment to societal harmony. While it may not grab many headlines, Slovenia’s approach to maintaining peace offers valuable lessons for other nations.

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#10. Malaysia

In a country where the pungent durian fruit is banned from public transport, Malaysia has mastered a far more challenging feat: cultivating peace in one of the world’s most diverse societies.

This Southeast Asian nation, home to a vibrant mix of Malays, Chinese, Indians, and indigenous peoples, has turned cultural coexistence into a national strength.

Malaysia impressed in the 2024 Global Peace Index, ranking 10th globally and outpacing many of its regional neighbors. Perhaps most notably, it shares the top spot worldwide in the ongoing conflict domain, a testament to its success in avoiding both internal strife and external disputes.

This peace isn’t achieved by chance. Malaysia’s political system is a unique blend of constitutional monarchy and parliamentary democracy.

It has managed to maintain stability by carefully balancing the interests of its multicultural population. This complex recipe somehow works – a dash of tradition, a sprinkle of modernity, and a healthy serving of compromise.

Economically, Malaysia’s peaceful status pays dividends. The cost of violence to its economy is a mere 3.40% of GDP, among the lowest in Southeast Asia.

This efficiency allows Malaysia to channel resources into development rather than conflict management, fueling its transformation from a colonial backwater to a modern, middle-income nation in just a few decades.

Key ingredients in Malaysia’s peace recipe include:

  • A knack for diplomatic solutions in regional tussles
  • Robust economic growth, keeping potential unrest at bay
  • Skillful management of ethnic and religious diversity
  • A relatively modest military budget compared to its neighbors

For expats and investors, Malaysia serves up an enticing blend of modern amenities, rich culture, and a secure environment. It’s a place where you can savor street food at midnight without a worry, and where the biggest culture shock might be learning to love that infamous durian fruit.

Malaysia’s steady performance in peace rankings shows its ongoing commitment to harmony in a diverse society. Certain challenges do persist, particularly in addressing inequality and political corruption. But Malaysia’s approach to peace offers food for thought for other multicultural nations.

#11. Canada

When you think of Canada, images of vast wilderness, friendly people, and maple syrup might come to mind.

But there’s another defining characteristic of this North American giant: its remarkable peacefulness. Canada currently ranks 11th in the 2024 Global Peace Index with a score of 1.449.

So what exactly makes the ‘Great White North’ so safe?

  1. Multicultural Success Story: Unlike many nations struggling with diversity, Canada has turned its multiculturalism into a strength. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver are mosaics of cultures coexisting peacefully, contributing to Canada’s high score in social cohesion indicators.
  2. Effective Governance and Low Corruption: Canada’s political system, while not perfect, is known for its stability and relatively low levels of corruption. This translates to high trust in institutions, a key factor in maintaining societal peace.
  3. Strong Economic Foundations: With a diverse economy and abundant natural resources, Canada provides economic opportunities that help prevent social unrest. The country’s cost of violence is approximately 5.99% of its GDP, allowing for significant investment in social programs.
  4. Commitment to Global Peace: Canada’s international reputation as a peacekeeper and its active role in global diplomacy contribute to its high scores in external peace indicators.
  5. Gun Control and Low Crime Rates: Strict gun laws and effective policing contribute to low violent crime rates, especially compared to its southern neighbor.

However, Canada’s peace isn’t without its challenges. These include:

  • Indigenous reconciliation, which remains an ongoing process
  • Regional economic disparities, which create tensions
  • Climate change, which poses unique challenges to Canada’s north

Despite these challenges, Canada’s peace is evident in the politeness that’s become a national stereotype, in the heated but civil debates over hockey teams, and in the way Canadians rally together in times of crisis.

#12. Czechia

Czechia, formerly known as the Czech Republic, has emerged as one of the world’s safest countries, ranking 12th in the 2024 Global Peace Index with a score of 1.459.

This small Central European nation, known for its stunning architecture and rich history, is a beacon of stability in the heart of Europe.

Key factors contributing to Czechia’s high safety ranking include:

  1. Low Crime Rates: Czechia boasts remarkably low levels of violent crime, contributing significantly to its high score in the Safety and Security domain.
  2. Political Stability: With a strong democratic tradition since the Velvet Revolution, Czechia enjoys a stable political environment, crucial for maintaining peace.
  3. Absence of Terrorism: The country has been largely untouched by terrorist activities, a significant factor in its high peace ranking.
  4. Strong Gun Control: Strict firearms regulations help maintain low levels of gun-related violence.
  5. Effective Law Enforcement: A well-trained and visible police force contributes to public safety and order.
  6. NATO Membership: As part of NATO, Czechia benefits from collective security arrangements, particularly important given current geopolitical tensions.
  7. Robust Infrastructure: Well-maintained public transportation and urban planning contribute to overall safety and quality of life.

Czechia’s peace is a tangible presence, from the medieval streets of Prague to the spa towns of West Bohemia.

It’s reflected in the relaxed atmosphere of beer gardens, the families strolling through numerous city parks, and the general sense of security felt by both locals and the millions of tourists who visit each year.

For residents and visitors alike, Czechia’s commitment to safety is evident in daily life.

The streets of Prague and other cities are safe to walk, even at night. Public spaces are well-lit and monitored, and the public transportation system is reliable and secure.

However, Czechia also faces issues such as corruption, though it performs better than many of its regional neighbors in this area.

What’s more, like many European nations, Czechia faces the ongoing task of balancing security with openness in an era of increased global mobility.

As the world faces increasing uncertainties, Czechia is a great model of how a nation can provide safety and stability for its citizens and visitors alike.

FAQs

Is Europe safer than USA?

Yes, Europe is typically much safer than the USA. In fact, 14 of the world’s top 20 safest countries are located in Europe. In contrast, the United States ranks in 132nd place on the latest Global Peace Index, below countries such as Egypt, Zimbabwe, and Libya.

What’s the safest place on earth to live?

Iceland is the safest place to live on Earth, according to the latest Global Peace Index, where it ranked number one for the 14th year in a row. Ireland is also extremely safe, coming in second place on the same index.

What’s the safest country in Asia?

Singapore is the safest country in Asia, ranking in fifth position on the 2024 Global Peace Index. The country has low crime rates, effective law enforcement and strict gun control laws.

How does Portugal rank for safety?

Portugal usually ranks high on global indices of peace and safety. Portugal is especially safe because of its long-term political stability, low crime rates, and strict gun control laws. What’s more, Portugal doesn’t get involved in foreign conflicts, so the risk of terrorist attacks is extremely low.

What’s the safest country in Europe?

Iceland is the safest country in Europe and has remained so for many years. According to latest data from the Global Peace Index, Iceland ranks number one on the list of most peaceful countries in the world.

Next Steps

In 2024, finding a safe country to live in has become a high priority for many people.

Europe dominates the top 12 safest countries in the world, which including eight countries from either the European Union or the European Economic Area. What’s more, many of the world’s happiest countries are located in Europe. The same goes for many of the freest.

Having EU citizenship gives you the right to live freely in any of those eight safest countries, far away from war, gun crime, and oppression. That’s why an EU passport is such an important asset for any global citizen who needs a Plan B.

Next up, check out our guide on how to move to Europe.

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