Safety is an important factor when choosing a destination, whether you choose to travel alone, with friends, family or for business. But how do you know which are the safest countries in the world and what do we mean when we talk about safety? Given the outdated reputations and misinformation that exist in cyberspace, it is difficult to determine which country can provide us with that sense of security.
To help quantify security, the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) annually released the Global Peace Index (GPI), a measurement based on various data of peace and tranquility globally. This year's results show that the average level of peace has deteriorated by 0,07% compared to the previous year, which is not surprising given how the pandemic has visibly shaken our lives, but also the war in Ukraine and left his mark.
The safest countries in the world
The report notes that while some factors (such as the number of deaths from terrorism) have improved over time, the number of violent incidents related to Covid, riots in response to lockdown, targeted physical attacks from 2020 to 2021 was in decline. In fact, there were at least 158 countries that saw one or more violent incidents directly related to the pandemic during this time.
Despite current events, the latest GPI rankings look pretty similar to previous years. For example, the country in the first position has been in the leading position for 13 years. To make the list, IEP ranks 163 nations using three areas of peace: the level of societal safety and security, the extent of ongoing domestic and international conflicts, and the degree of militarization.
Within these areas, the organization analyzes 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators, including incarceration rates, homicide rates, deaths from internal conflicts, perceptions of crime, and more. Bottom line, the lower the score, the better. Below, you'll find the 10 safest countries in the world, along with each country's score.
Canada (1.33)
Despite being larger than its neighbor to the south, Canada is one of the safest countries in the world. However, the country has reported an increase in hate crimes (especially against Asians) and the economy has declined during the pandemic. But the safety index has improved due to fewer prisoners and arms exports.
Czech Republic (1.329)
The Czech Republic recorded a safety score of just 1.329 points, reporting a low crime rate and low impact of terrorism. Even pickpocketing is no longer a problem in big cities like Prague. According to the IEP, the Czech Republic is one of the safest countries in the world.
Ireland (1.326)
Ireland entered the top 10, climbing three safety positions, despite some violent demonstrations that took place during the pandemic. Relatively low crime rates, a stable economy, and happy, friendly residents have offset the violence of the pandemic.
Switzerland (1.323)
Although missing from the top 10 in 2020, Switzerland returns to a very good position in 2021 thanks to low crime rates and generous per capita income.
Austria (1.317)
Austria had the second biggest quality deterioration in Europe (after Greece) from 2020 to 2021, although it remains one of the safest countries in the world. The drop in quality was a result of a November 2020 terrorist attack in Vienna, although the government quickly responded with new legislation that monitors terrorist offenders much more closely. The country continues to earn high marks for a solid business environment and good relations with its neighbors.
Slovenia (1.315)
Slovenia entered the top 10 for the first time in 2020 and managed to stay there in 2021 (it even moved up a few places) thanks to extremely low crime rates. Whether you're into beautiful places in general or want to explore some of Europe's most beautiful castles and lakes, Slovenia has something for you, including a guaranteed good night's sleep.
Portugal (1.267)
Portugal has made significant strides in terms of safety in recent years. In 2014, the country was emerging from the financial crisis and ranked 18th in the GPI. Today, it is in the top five safe countries in the world. It enjoys a Mediterranean climate and affordable healthcare, and it's no wonder that many people choose to retire in Portugal.
Danemark (1.256)
Denmark is in the top 3 safe countries in the world and this is due to its well-functioning government, low levels of corruption and fair distribution of resources. Another fun fact? It is one of 29 countries where women are significantly more satisfied with their own living standards than men.
New Zeelandă (1.253)
New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world and crime is extremely low, which is why the 2019 Christchurch bombing was such an incredible shock. Fortunately, it remained a country unaffected by COVID-19. The Kiwi nation saw a very slight deterioration in its score this year due to increased arms imports and military spending.
Iceland (1.1)
Iceland is the most peaceful country in the world, a top position held since 2008. The Nordic nation has some of the lowest rates of military spending and international conflict in the world (being surrounded only by water is a plus), and its incarceration rate is of 33 per 100.000 people, the lowest in all of Europe.