The most peaceful country in the world in 2026 is Iceland and it has held this ranking for 18 consecutive years. This is according to the Global Peace Index (GPI) that evaluates countries based on societal safety, conflict involvement, and militarization. Iceland scores well thanks to extremely low crime, high societal trust, and no standing army.
Other nations that rank well on the GPI include Ireland, New Zealand, Austria, and Switzerland. These countries have strong Positive Peace factors like the stability of their institutions and their economies.
Our article describes the most peaceful countries in the world in order, according to the latest GPI data. We discuss how the GPI works in more depth, why the nations are so peaceful, and what advantages each nation offers.
Most Peaceful Country in the World: Key Takeaways
What is the Global Peace Index?
The Global Peace Index, developed by the Institute for Economics and Peace, is a widely used tool that ranks the peacefulness of countries each year. Launched in 2007, it helps governments, researchers, and organizations, including our Global Intelligence Unit, understand global peace trends and create effective policies.
The GPI assesses nations using three primary factors: societal safety and security, ongoing domestic and international conflict, and the level of militarization of the country. It serves as an analytical structure for examining the factors that influence peace. By highlighting the most peaceful places to live and identifying regions at risk, the Index supports:
- Conflict prevention and resolution strategies.
- Policy development and resource allocation.
- Long-term peace-building initiatives.
The 10 Most Peaceful Countries in the World
1. Iceland
- Global Peace Index score: 1.095
Iceland remains the most peaceful country in the world in 2026, holding the top spot for an impressive 18 years in a row. Iceland’s reputation is built on a cohesive society, strong democratic institutions, and an almost complete absence of violent crime.
The country is the only member of NATO with no standing military, which further contributes to its exceptional safety. Iceland is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the world and it is one of the safest countries for women to travel alone.
Though Iceland does not have a residency by investment program, it offers straightforward residence permits for work and study, and EU/EEA citizens can move there freely.
Areas of strength:
- Very low homicide rate
- No military expenditure
- High political stability
2. Ireland
- Global Peace Index score: 1.260
Ireland is a small island nation off the coast of the United Kingdom, known for its lush green landscapes, friendly people, and rich cultural heritage. Famous for literary greats like James Joyce and W.B. Yeats, Ireland combines artistic spirit with modern economic dynamism having one of the highest GDP per capita figures in the world at over $100,000.
Over the past decade, Ireland has ranked highly in global peacefulness, with very few violent protests and minimal civil unrest. The rates of violent crime in the country are also exceptionally low with it seeing a decrease in 2025 of 34% in the 12 months.
For investors and entrepreneurs, Ireland offers low corporate taxes, access to the EU market, and a pro-business environment. Residency opportunities include the Immigrant Investor Programme for qualifying investments and the Ireland Startup Entrepreneur Programme (STEP), which requires a viable business plan with a minimum investment of €50,000 and a commitment to creating jobs.
Areas of strength:
- Low political terror
- High UN peacekeeping funding
- Low perception of criminality
3. New Zealand
- Global Peace Index score: 1.282
The twin-island nation of New Zealand holds third place and is consistently ranked among the most peaceful countries in the world. Known for spectacular natural scenery and exceptional safety, New Zealand attracts visitors and residents alike.
The country has one of the lowest crime rates globally and enjoys a high standard of living thanks to median wages in many sectors reaching or exceeding $100,000 annually. The absence of external threats has helped build an open and tolerant society. New Zealand maintains active programs to preserve Māori culture and heritage.
High-net-worth foreign nationals can apply for residence through the New Zealand Active Investor Plus Visa that has a starting cost of NZD $5 million (~$3 million). Under this program, permanent residency can be acquired in three years and citizenship after five years.
Areas of strength:
- High peacekeeping funding
- Low access to weapons
- High political stability
4. Austria
- Global Peace Index score: 1.294
The Republic of Austria is one of Europe’s oldest nations, renowned for its baroque architecture, classical music, and thriving cultural scene. For nearly 70 years, Austria has maintained strict neutrality, which underpins its reputation as one of the most peaceful countries in the world.
Austria consistent ranking among the most peaceful places to live, reflects a commitment to democracy, prosperity, and social stability. The nation is a committed member of the United Nations and contributes to multiple peacekeeping missions with over 100,000 troops and civilians deployed on more than 50 international missions.
The Austria citizenship by investment program is available to individuals who make extraordinary contributions to the economy. The program does not have a traditional investment minimum like other citizenship by investment programs. Instead it grants citizenship for substantial, active, and exceptional investments that directly benefit Austria.
Areas of strength:
- Low homicide rate
- Excellent relations with neighboring countries
- High political stability
5. Switzerland
- Global Peace Index score: 1.294
Switzerland is well-known for its stunning mountainous landscapes, sophisticated banking sector, and an exceptionally strong economy. It is also highly regarded for its unwavering commitment to peace, as demonstrated by its consistently high rankings in the Global Peace Index.
Switzerland achieves this through a combination of high levels of safety and security, and a deeply ingrained culture of democracy and human rights. One of the major factors contributing to Switzerland’s peaceful status is its long-standing policy of neutrality, which has effectively kept the country out of international conflicts for over two centuries.
The Swiss Residence Permit is a program for high-net-worth individuals seeking residency in Switzerland. To qualify, individuals will need to pay taxes based on annual living expenses instead of worldwide income. The canton negotiates the tax, which must meet federal minimums (CHF 435,000), and the agreement is used by immigration authorities to grant a standard Swiss residence (B) permit.
Areas of strength:
- Political stability and neutrality
- Globally-renowned financial sector
- Multilingual and highly skilled workforce
6. Singapore
- Global Peace Index score: 1.357
For a fifth consecutive year, Singapore placed in the top ten of the most peaceful countries in the world, ranking sixth in the most recent list. The country is known for its strict laws and efficient governance, which help keep crime rates remarkably low, maintain order, and ensure societal safety and security.
Economics and peace work together in Singapore as the nation has the world’s highest GDP-PPP per capita at $156,755. An extremely strong economy, high standards of living, and meaningful income equality all contribute to Singapore’s overall peace and stability.
The country maintains a highly effective military force but remains committed to resolving disputes peacefully wherever possible. Singapore is also an active participant in international organizations such as the United Nations and works diligently to promote diplomacy and regional cooperation around the world having completed over 17 missions since 1989.
Areas of strength:
- Very low violent crime
- High political stability
- Low access to weapons
7. Portugal
- Global Peace Index score: 1.371
Portugal ranks 7th on the Global Peace Index and is considered one of the safest countries in Europe. Famous for its historic cities, sun-drenched coastline, and welcoming policies towards immigration, Portugal has built a reputation as one of the most peaceful places to live.
The enduring peacefulness is rooted in a long history of neutrality, stable governance, and strong social cohesion. Portuguese government leaders ensure it remains one of the safest countries on the continent by placing their citizens’ well-being at the forefront of their agendas. For example, the country has universal healthcare which is available to all residents.
The nation offers a variety of visas for expats including the Portugal D7 Visa for passive income earners and retirees, the Portugal Digital Nomad Visa, and the Portugal Golden Visa for investors. Each option can lead to citizenship after five years of legal and continuous residence in Portugal. The country’s peacefulness and visa options are just some of the reasons why it ranks first in our Global Intelligence Unit’s Retirement Report.
Areas of strength:
- Low access to weapons
- No domestic or international conflict
- Superb relations with neighboring countries
8. Denmark
- Global Peace Index score: 1.393
Denmark consistently ranks among the top countries in the Global Peace Index, placing 8th in 2025 reflecting its status as one of the world’s most peaceful nations. Famous for its bicycle-friendly cities, innovative design, and high quality of life, Denmark combines prosperity with strong social trust.
Denmark’s strong governance, low levels of domestic and international conflict, and a high degree of societal safety and security lead to it being the second happiest country in the world according to the World Happiness Index. The country’s commitment to upholding democratic values and a well-functioning public sector contribute to its peaceful status.
Additionally, Denmark’s minimal military engagement and effective criminal justice system play crucial roles in maintaining its position as a leader in global peace. As one of the most peaceful places to live, Denmark is recognized for its low crime rates throughout the country and inclusive social policies and legislation.
Areas of strength:
- Very well-functioning public sector
- High degree of societal safety
- Effective criminal justice system
9. Slovenia
- Global Peace Index score: 1.409
Slovenia has ranked in the top ten of the most peaceful countries in the world six times in the last ten years, achieving 9th place in the Global Peace Index in 2025. Known for its picture-perfect lakes and charming medieval towns, Slovenia is also recognized for its long history of tolerance and respect for different cultures and religions.
The majority of Slovenians are Catholic, with smaller communities of Orthodox Christians, Muslims, and a significant Jewish community in the capital, Ljubljana. Slovenia upholds high religious freedom, and all groups are free to practice their faith without discrimination.
Not only is it one of the most peaceful countries in the world, but it is also among the highest-ranked nations for the lowest number of displaced people. The government is particularly stable, and democracy is strong. In recent years, Slovenia has been significantly growing its economy with GDP growth expected to reach 2.3% in 2026 to 2027.
Areas of strength:
- Low criminality in society
- Very low displaced people
- High safety and security
10. Finland
- Global Peace Index score: 1.420
Finland ranks 10th on the GPI and it is known for its vast forests, exceptional social stability, and high quality of life. The country is also considered the happiest in the world according to the World Happiness Index, for nine consecutive years.
Finland combines strong democratic institutions, low corruption, and transparent governance to create a society defined by trust and safety. The country’s commitment to social equality and robust public services ensures that citizens enjoy access to excellent education, universal healthcare, and a supportive social safety net.
Crime rates remain very low, and the country has one of the lowest levels of perceived criminality in the world. Foreign nationals can apply for residence permits through employment, entrepreneurship, or study, making Finland an option for those seeking a peaceful, secure, and prosperous nation.
Areas of strength:
- Low violent crime
- High social equality
- Strong institutions
