In this article, we discuss the 5 most peaceful countries in the world. If you want to read our detailed analysis on peace, and democracy, go directly to the 25 Most Peaceful Countries in the World.
5. Slovenia
Global Peace Index Score: 1.315
Slovenia gained its independence from Yugoslavia in 1991 and began to liberalize its economy and opened up its markets to the rest of the world and experienced stunning economic growth. A healthy economy has allowed Slovenian Government to invest heavily in public services like law enforcement which have played a tremendous role in keeping the streets clean. Crime rate is low in Slovenia and OSAC places it in level 1 for being among the safest countries in the world.
Pixabay/Public Domain
4. Portugal
Global Peace Index Score: 1.26
Portugal is a South European country with a very friendly population. Political institutions in the country are socialist leaning due to the domination of national politics by socialists. This allows for a lot of policies that are welfare oriented. Crime rate is low in the country and OSAC deems Portugal as one of the safest. Inter-faith and Inter-ethnic harmony also exists in Portugal.
Pixabay/Public Domain
3. Denmark
Global Peace Index Score: 1.256
Denmark is a Nordic country and like all Nordic countries, is one of the happiest and most peaceful in the world. Denmark has liberal institutions for the safety and welfare of its citizens and to promote multiculturalism and diversity. The population is also very open and friendly. Crime rate is low and Denmark focuses more on rehabilitation and mental health care rather than incarceration. OSAC reports that Denmark is one of the safest in the world as well.
Photo by Mark König/Unsplash
2. New Zealand
Global Peace Index Score: 1.253
New Zealand is located in Oceania next to Australia. It’s pretty isolated geographically from the rest of the world and is known to be one of the most peaceful countries in the world with virtually non-existent violent crime and a very liberal, welcoming and multicultural population.
However, mass shootings occurred in 2019 in Christchurch area targeting Muslim worshippers. The killer, who was not a New Zealand citizen, was apprehended and imprisoned after a court trial. In the wake of the shootings, New Zealand government banned all assault weapons with immediate effect. Occurrences like these however, are exceedingly rare in the country. OSAC places the country on level 1 for being among the safest countries in the world.
Pixabay/Public Domain
1. Iceland
Global Peace Index Score: 1.1
Iceland tops the list for being the most peaceful country in the world. Iceland is a Nordic country and as discussed above, Nordic countries have a reputation for being the happiest, most peaceful countries in the world. Iceland does not have quarrels with any of its neighbours. It does not maintain a standing army. Incarceration rate is very low in the country due to minimal crime. OSAC places it on level 1 for being the safest country in the world.
Photo by Marko Samaniego/Unsplash
You can also take a peek at Top 15 U.S. Cities With Highest Number of Murders in 2020 and 30 Most Dangerous Cities in the U.S.
