5 Most Dangerous Countries in Central and South America

4. Brazil

Global Peace Index Ranking: 132

Brazil, officially known as the Federative Republic of Brazil, stands as one of the most prosperous nations in South America. With a robust GDP of $2 trillion and a per capita GDP of $9,673, the country showcases a thriving economic landscape that is dominated by both natural resources and industrial production. Despite the availability of luxurious hotels in modern urban areas for visitors, a significant portion of Brazil’s population resides in extreme poverty. Surrounding the country’s cities are favelas, makeshift settlements where many underprivileged citizens reside. Due to a considerable number of individuals being unemployed, Brazil experiences elevated crime rates, including instances of violence, with data showing that the country recorded 40,824 homicides in 2022.