In 2025, the pursuit of peace remains a global aspiration, with certain nations standing out for their low crime rates, political stability, and societal harmony. According to the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025, produced by the Institute for Economics and Peace, the world’s most peaceful countries excel in safety, minimal conflict, and strong governance. Led by Iceland, these nations offer environments where citizens and visitors alike enjoy tranquility and security. This article explores the top 10 most peaceful countries in 2025, highlighting the factors that make them havens of calm in a turbulent world.
1. Iceland
Iceland retains its position as the world’s most peaceful country in 2025, topping the GPI for the 17th consecutive year with a score of 1.112. With no standing army and a violent crime rate of just 0.3 per 100,000 people, Iceland’s safety is unparalleled. Reykjavik, the capital, reports minimal crime, supported by a robust police presence (1.9 officers per 1,000 residents). In 2025, Iceland’s strong social cohesion, low income inequality (Gini coefficient of 0.24), and commitment to renewable energy foster a stable society. The country’s stunning landscapes and small population (387,758) enhance its serene environment, making Iceland a beacon of peace in 2025.
2. Ireland
Ireland ranks second in 2025, with a GPI score of 1.303, reflecting its low crime rates and political stability. Dublin and Cork report violent crime rates of 2.2 per 100,000, bolstered by effective policing and a strong judicial system. In 2025, Ireland’s high human development index (HDI of 0.945) and low poverty rate (5.5%) create a harmonious society. The country’s neutral foreign policy and minimal militarization (0.2% of GDP on defense) contribute to its tranquility. Ireland’s vibrant culture and welcoming communities make it a peaceful haven for residents and expats in 2025.
3. Austria
Austria secures third place in 2025, with a GPI score of 1.316, driven by its safe cities and stable governance. Vienna, consistently ranked among the world’s most livable cities, has a violent crime rate of 1.8 per 100,000. In 2025, Austria’s low unemployment (4.2%) and high median income ($61,582) support social stability. The country’s neutral stance in global conflicts and minimal military spending (0.7% of GDP) enhance its peaceful status. Austria’s Alpine landscapes, cultural heritage, and strong community policing make it a top peaceful destination in 2025.
4. New Zealand
New Zealand ranks fourth in 2025, with a GPI score of 1.334, known for its low crime and inclusive society. Cities like Auckland and Wellington report violent crime rates of 2.5 per 100,000, supported by 1.7 police officers per 1,000 residents. In 2025, New Zealand’s strong democratic institutions, low corruption (Corruption Perceptions Index score of 85), and progressive policies foster peace. The country’s commitment to environmental sustainability and cultural inclusivity, with a focus on Māori rights, enhances its appeal. New Zealand’s natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle make it a peaceful retreat in 2025.
5. Singapore
Singapore, fifth in 2025, boasts a GPI score of 1.339, driven by its stringent laws and high safety standards. The city-state has a violent crime rate of just 0.8 per 100,000, with 2.1 police officers per 1,000 residents. In 2025, Singapore’s robust economy (GDP per capita of $87,884) and low unemployment (2.1%) ensure stability. Its strict governance, minimal corruption, and advanced surveillance systems deter crime. Singapore’s multicultural harmony and world-class infrastructure make it a secure and peaceful hub for residents and expats in 2025.
6. Switzerland
Switzerland ranks sixth in 2025, with a GPI score of 1.350, known for its political neutrality and low crime rates. Cities like Zurich and Geneva report violent crime rates of 1.6 per 100,000, supported by efficient policing. In 2025, Switzerland’s high HDI (0.962) and low income inequality (Gini coefficient of 0.29) foster social cohesion. The country’s minimal military spending (0.7% of GDP) and focus on diplomacy enhance its peaceful status. Switzerland’s Alpine scenery, high quality of life, and strong governance make it a serene destination in 2025.
7. Portugal
Portugal, seventh in 2025, has a GPI score of 1.372, reflecting its safety and welcoming atmosphere. Lisbon and Porto report violent crime rates of 2.0 per 100,000, with 2.0 police officers per 1,000 residents. In 2025, Portugal’s low poverty rate (8.7%) and affordable living costs attract expats, while its stable democracy ensures peace. The country’s neutral foreign policy and low militarization (1.3% of GDP) contribute to its tranquility. Portugal’s Mediterranean climate, cultural richness, and community focus make it a peaceful haven in 2025.
8. Denmark
Denmark ranks eighth in 2025, with a GPI score of 1.382, celebrated for its high quality of life and social equality. Copenhagen’s violent crime rate is 2.1 per 100,000, supported by 1.8 police officers per 1,000 residents. In 2025, Denmark’s strong welfare system, low corruption (CPI score of 90), and high median income ($73,386) ensure stability. The country’s commitment to sustainability and progressive policies fosters a peaceful society. Denmark’s bike-friendly cities and cultural vibrancy make it a top peaceful destination in 2025.
9. Slovenia
Slovenia, ninth in 2025, has a GPI score of 1.398, driven by its low crime and stable governance. Ljubljana reports a violent crime rate of 1.9 per 100,000, with effective community policing. In 2025, Slovenia’s high HDI (0.918) and low unemployment (4.0%) support social harmony. The country’s minimal military spending (1.2% of GDP) and focus on environmental preservation enhance its peaceful status. Slovenia’s picturesque landscapes, from the Julian Alps to Lake Bled, and its welcoming culture make it a serene choice in 2025.
10. Malaysia
Malaysia rounds out the list in 2025, with a GPI score of 1.427, known for its multicultural harmony and safety. Kuala Lumpur reports a violent crime rate of 2.3 per 100,000, supported by 1.6 police officers per 1,000 residents. In 2025, Malaysia’s growing economy (GDP per capita of $13,382) and low cost of living attract expats. The country’s stable governance and religious tolerance foster peace. Malaysia’s tropical beauty, vibrant food scene, and affordable lifestyle make it a peaceful destination in 2025.
Conclusion
In 2025, Iceland, Ireland, Austria, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland, Portugal, Denmark, Slovenia, and Malaysia stand out as the world’s most peaceful countries, with GPI scores ranging from 1.112 to 1.427. These nations excel in low crime rates, political stability, and social cohesion, offering residents and visitors unparalleled safety. From Iceland’s minimal militarization to Malaysia’s cultural harmony, these countries set a global standard for peace, making them ideal destinations for a secure and fulfilling life in 2025.
