According to the Global Peace Index (GPI), Iceland is the safest country to travel in the world. Further, the Nordic countries of Europe such as Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Sweden are also ranked among the safest countries in the world. Some of them are also ranked among the 10 happiest countries in the world. All of these countries possess some common characteristics that make them the safest countries. They are high literacy rates, social welfare, higher levels of wealth, lower crime rates, an effective judicial system, and positive relationships between government and citizens. After Europe, the second safest region is Asia. Here, we have the top 12 safest countries in the world, you can consider before starting your travel diaries.
Top 12 Safest Countries In the World
According to the Global Peace Index, the following is the list of the 12 top safest countries in the world:
1) Iceland
According to the GPI, Iceland has been ranked the safest country in the world for the last 14 years. Iceland has a small population of about 3,94,500, collectively creating a strong sense of community ties, tranquility, and a secure environment. This led to a strong sense of mutual care and belonging, reduced conflict among the economic and social classes, low levels of crime, high trust in official authorities, political stability, and high standards of living.
Iceland provides religious freedom to people, as well as equal job opportunities and wages to both men and women. The geographical location plays an important role in the safety of the country. Iceland is surrounded by the Arctic Ocean and North Atlantic, making it a remote location. This reduces the likelihood of external threats and conflicts in the country.
2) Denmark
According to GPI, Denmark is the second safest country in the world. It has a small population i.e., 5.98 million which makes it a well-developed welfare state. It bolsters one of the world’s highest GDPs and ensures social and political security. There is less interstate conflict due to having friendliest relationships with its neighboring states. Denmark has a strong sense of common responsibility and a higher level of equality which contributes to the feeling of safety and happiness to citizens and tourists as well.
Corruption is rarely found in Danish politics or business. Trust and honesty are their priorities. Danish people pay high personal income tax which contributes to their social welfare and ensures that they receive perks and services that make their life comfortable. For instance, Denmark provides free healthcare and tuition-free higher education to its citizens, and elder people are provided services at home.
3) Ireland
Ireland became a safe country notably in 2021, took the third rank in the 2022 rankings, and continued to be the third safest country in 2024. The low crime rate in Ireland is admirable and assures its people and tourists that they are in safe hands. The homicide rate in the country is estimated at less than 1 percent. Moreover, the country has a positive relationship with other neighboring states which also brings peace and welfare to the country.
According to the Global Terrorism Index (GTI), Ireland has a very low score which shows a non-existent threat or risk of global or national terrorism. Moreover, Aran Islands (located in Galway Bay), Glendalough (fine ruins and hiking trails in Co Wicklow), West Cork (mountains, islands, coves, and beaches at the very south of the country), and old Irish villages are famous places for tourism.
4) New Zealand
New Zealand has a mature democratic system with stable politics and a low level of corruption which makes it the safest country to live in and for tourist destinations. The system encourages the participation of citizens, ensures public safety, fosters open dialogue, and upholds the rule of law. The approach of New Zealand to public safety depends on comprehensive rehabilitation, preventive measures, and an effective justice system.
The crime rate in New Zealand is low. People are generally open-minded and have freedom of expression and freedom. In external affairs, the isolation and neutrality of New Zealand contribute to its safety and maintain its non-aggressive foreign policy. Moreover, for tourists, there are many attractive places including Waiheke Island, Mount Maunganui, and Abel Tasman National Park.
5) Austria
Austria is a very safe country to visit. It is the 5th safest country in the rankings. Austria benefits from regional peace and security as it is a member of the European Union. The government emphasizes on democratic system and political stability. Due to the safe and peaceful country, the budget of the military to annual GDP remains minimal. It has a longstanding commitment to non-aggression. The crime rate in Austria is relatively low. Economically, Austria has a stable economy with less unemployment. People feel safe and happy living in Austria.
In Austria, individual rights are usually upheld and there is a serious punishment for disobeying and harassment. However, it is recommended to follow the common travel safety measures such as being careful with your belongings and avoid to walk alone on unfamiliar paths at night.
6) Singapore
Singapore ranks 6th in terms of safe countries in the world in 2024. The people of Singapore have strong feelings of personal security and public safety. The law of Singapore has designed serious penalties, even for small crimes, which led to a very low crime rate in the country. Singapore ranked first for personal security and infrastructure security in 2019. In the same year, it ranked second for digital security and took eighth rank in health security.
Singapore is a less corrupt country which shows that the income tax paid by the people is used for their services and safety. Singapore is a small country with plenty of places to visit for tourists and its citizens. Marina Bay Sand Sky Park, Sentosa Island, Royal Albatross Dinner Cruise, and many more are popular tourist destinations in Singapore.
7) Portugal
Portugal ranks seventh in the list of safest countries according to the GPI Index. It is situated in southwestern Europe and is a maritime nation. It has stable political governance and a low crime rate. The government works to ensure social security and a secure environment for both its people and tourists.
In Portugal, law enforcement officers are actively engaged with the community, and community policy models are applied to address problems faced by the people and take preemptive actions to make people feel secure. The justice system is transparent and well-structured, effective in minimizing violent crimes. The definite legal frameworks provide a sense of safety among citizens and make it a popular destination for tourists to visit.
8) Slovenia
According to the GPI Index, Slovenia ranks 8th safest country in the world. It is located in Central Europe and is a popular destination for travelers due to its safe and secure environment. The Slovenian government emphasizes health and education, fostering a healthy and well-educated populace which helps in the development of society and lessens the rate of criminal activity.
There is a harmony and sense of belonging in the community which discourages anti-social behaviors. Slovenia has the highest score in road safety, travel security, and medical risk. Moreover, the democratic system in Slovenia is strong which is focused on ensuring the quality of life with stability, security, and sustainability.
9) Japan
Japan is a safe country and is ranked among the safest countries in the world. It prioritizes social harmony, equality, and social security. There is non-existent political turmoil and minimal internal conflict. The crime and theft rate is very low and tourists are often amazed by the fact that people leave their belongings and stuff unaccompanied in bars and cafes and no one takes them. Female travelers also feel safe while traveling alone in Japan.
Moreover, there is less wealth disparity in Japan as compared to other Western nations which also decreases the chances and roots of criminal behavior. The citizens of Japan are enjoying high-quality life and the safest infrastructure in the world. This is one of the reasons that Japan attracts tourists, students, and immigrants from all over the world. According to the Safe Cities Index from the Economist Intelligence Unit, Tokyo was ranked the safest city in 2019, first in cybersecurity, second in health security, and fourth in personal and infrastructure security.
10) Switzerland
Switzerland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and according to the GPI Index, it is among the top 10 safest countries in the world. It has the lowest crime rate and less criminal behavior is observed among people. The reason behind this uniqueness is their rehabilitation centers. In their judicial system, they prioritize rehabilitation rather than punishment which works on the criminal behavior of criminals and leads to productive results in the society.
Moreover, the citizens are respectful and peaceful, there is equal to non-existent street harassment. Tourists feel safe in the country. Switzerland has been following the policy of international neutrality for ages and the surrounding mountain terrains are also a good addition to the safety and defense of the country. Due to the safe environment and warm behavior of the citizens of Switzerland, every year millions of tourists visit the country.
11) Canada
In 2024, Canada has made its place in the list of the safest countries in the world. It is situated in North America. The lack of crime, safety in transportation, safety for women, and effective health measures have made it one of the safest countries in the world. Due to its safety and peaceful environment, people tend to migrate there for better educational and job opportunities.
Canada focuses on inclusiveness and equality for all its people and promotes a “just society”. It has diverse cities with friendly people. Good governance and their strong efforts to reduce poverty, funded healthcare system, well distribution of wealth by higher taxation, social security, women’s rights, and socially liberal attitude attract millions of people every year to visit Canada.
12) Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is a country in Europe with magnificent architecture, a captivating cultural sense, and rich geography and history. According to the GPI Index, it ranks among the safest countries in the world. Violent activities and the criminal rate is less, the citizens are living in one of the safest and most peaceful societies in the world.
Its transportation system makes it easy for travelers to navigate beautiful places in the Czech Republic. It attracts tourism due to its old castle, picturesque cobblestone streets, cultural scene, hospitable residents, and public transit. In Europe, people prefer visiting the Czech Republic to have their annual vacations and spend some good quality time with their friends and family.
| Sr. No. | Countries | Global Peace Index (GPI) Rank |
| 1. | Iceland | 1.124 |
| 2. | Denmark | 1.310 |
| 3. | Ireland | 1.312 |
| 4. | New Zealand | 1.313 |
| 5. | Austria | 1.316 |
| 6. | Singapore | 1.332 |
| 7. | Portugal | 1.333 |
| 8. | Slovenia | 1.334 |
| 9. | Japan | 1.336 |
| 10. | Switzerland | 1.339 |
| 11. | Canada | 1.350 |
| 12. | Czech Republic | 1.379 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Travelers who are looking for diversity, safety, beautiful nature, a friendly environment, and unforgettable experiences can visit these beautiful countries for amazing experiences and lifelong memories.
Some factors that are common in all these countries are the low homicide rate, low crime rate, good government, and stable economic and political situations. Citizens of these countries are safe and secure which makes the environment safe overall.
If you are looking for any country to visit this year, consider any one of these 12 safest countries according to your personal preference and destination-specific consideration. While traveling, do your homework before, and be alert which will increase your safety and experience.
FAQs
What is GPI?
GPI is a Global Peace Index produced by the Institute for Economics and Peace which ranks the countries based on safety and tranquility. This shows which countries of the world are safest.
Which Country Is the Safest Country in the World?
Iceland is the safest country in the world with a 1.124 GPI rank. It has ranked the safest country in the world for the last 14 years.
What Country Has the Lowest Crime Rate?
According to the GPI, Iceland is the country with the lowest crime rate in the world, which makes it the most peaceful country in the world.
What Measures Do You Need to Take To Be Safe While Traveling?
One should pay attention to its surroundings, be careful with its belongings including important documents such as passport and identity cards, stay away from remote or unfamiliar locations, and know the police emergency number in case of emergencies.
Is the UAE a Safe Country?
The UAE has attained an impressive community safety score which is 98.5 percent. This shows a high level of security and safety in the country.
