Achieving peace is something that many countries strive for, but few manage to achieve. Wars, terrorism, and violence are all rampant in the world today, and it can be disheartening to see so much hatred and conflict around us.
But there are still some places in the world where peace is the norm and harmony prevails. In this article, we’ll reveal the most peaceful country in the world for 2023 based on the Global Peace Index. We’ll also explore how the ten most peaceful countries have achieved a culture of nonviolence and neutrality and why other nations around the world should follow their examples.
What is the Global Peace Index?
The Global Peace Index (GPI) is a unique tool created by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) to measure the relative position of nations’ and regions’ peacefulness. Launched in 2007, it ranks countries around the world based on their levels of peace. The GPI is pivotal in understanding global peace trends and guiding policymakers, researchers, and the general public in fostering a more peaceful world.
The GPI assesses peace using three broad thematic domains: Societal Safety and Security, Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict, and Militarization. It incorporates 23 indicators, ranging from the number of internal and external violent conflicts, level of distrust, political instability, and potential for terrorist acts, to military expenditure and relations with neighboring countries. These indicators are compiled and scored on a scale to represent an overall level of peacefulness.
The GPI is more than just a snapshot of current peace levels; it’s a tool to analyze and understand the drivers of peace. By highlighting peaceful and less peaceful regions, it helps identify potential risks and areas for improvement. The GPI is widely used by governments, NGOs, and researchers to allocate resources, develop policy, and strategize for conflict resolution and peacebuilding initiatives.
The GPI has become an essential reference in the study of global peace, offering insights into how and why nations and regions differ in their levels of peace and stability.
Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is one of the most peaceful countries in the world, with a low crime rate and a strong sense of security. This peaceful nation has a long history of peaceful coexistence with neighboring countries, and its people are known for their tolerance and hospitality. Czechs are also very proud of their culture and heritage and take great care to preserve it.
With millions of foreign visitors to cities like Prague on an annual basis, the Czech government works hard to maintain high rankings in the areas of societal safety and security.
Global Peace Index score: 1.379
Areas of strength:
- Low political instability
- Good neighboring country relations
- Low domestic and international conflict
- Low access to weapons
- Low organized conflict
Japan
It’s been almost 80 years since the end of a vicious war between the US and Japan, and Japan has never looked back. Although once under totalitarian and fascist rule, this never defined Japanese people, they have dedicated themselves to peace and their commitment to nonviolent solutions to conflict.
In recent years, this peaceful country has strongly advocated for peace and security worldwide. It has worked tirelessly to resolve international disputes through diplomacy and mediation and has actively participated in United Nations peacekeeping missions.
Japan is also one of the most significant contributors to the UN Peacekeeping budget, and it regularly provides financial assistance to other countries to encourage global peacefulness.
Global Peace Index score: 1.366
Areas of strength:
- High political stability
- Low displaced people
- High safety and security
- Low violent crime
- Low access to weapons
Slovenia
Slovenia has ranked in the top ten of the most peaceful countries in the world six times in the last ten years. The country has a long history of tolerance and respect for different cultures and religions, which is reflected in its current population.
The majority of Slovenians are Catholic, with a small number of Orthodox Christians and Muslims. There is also a significant Jewish community in the capital, Ljubljana. Slovenia has high religious freedom, and all religious groups are free to practice their faith without discrimination. You would be extremely unfortunate to witness any internal disputes related to religious beliefs.
Not only is it one of the most peaceful countries in the world, but it is also one of the highest-ranked for the lowest number of displaced people. The government is stable, and democracy is strong. In recent years, Slovenia has been working hard to improve its economy, which has helped make it even more peaceful and prosperous.
Global Peace Index score: 1.334
Areas of strength:
- Low perceived criminality in society
- Low political terror
- Low displaced people
- High safety and security
- Low weapons exports
Portugal
Portugal should top your list if you’re looking for a peaceful place to call home. This European country has long been consistently named one of the most peaceful countries in the world, with a long history of neutrality, stable governance, and harmony among citizens. Portuguese government leaders ensure the country is one of the safest in Europe by placing their citizen’s well-being at the forefront of their political agendas.
Portugal is also a member of various international organizations dedicated to promoting peace, such as the United Nations and the Council of Europe.
As one of the most peaceful societies, it provides an easy path for foreigners to gain residency through visa programs like the Portugal D7 Visa Program. A monthly income of €760 ($805) can earn you legal residence in Portugal. The D7 Visa is often referred to as a Digital Nomad Visa as remote workers can easily acquire it.
It’s a peaceful country that is heavily involved in reducing international conflict and strongly encourages global peacefulness. This leads many American expats to move to Portugal to start a new life and escape the growing inequality and insecurity back home.
For those interested in investing in property overseas, the housing market in Portugal offers a lot for your money. The average house prices in Portugal are significantly lower than in comparable locations in the United States and Western European nations like France, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.
Global Peace Index score: 1.333
Areas of strength:
- Low access to weapons
- Low displaced people
- Low domestic and international conflict
- Low organized conflict
- Good neighboring country relations
Singapore
The Lion City continues its reign in the top places of the Global Peace Index. For a fifth consecutive year, it has ranked in the top ten of the most peaceful countries in the world. This Asian island state has a long tradition of maintaining peace within its borders and in its international relations.
Singapore is known for its strict laws and efficient governance, which help keep crime rates low, maintain order, and ensure societal safety and security. Economics and peace go hand in hand. A strong economy and a high standard of living, besides high-income equality, contribute to its overall sense of peace and stability.
Singapore is an ethnically diverse country, with Chinese, Malay, Indian, and other communities all coexisting peacefully. Human rights are a cornerstone concern in Singaporean politics, and the overall quality of life ensures that Singapore stays the most peaceful country in South Asia. It is also home to a large number of expatriates, who locals welcome.
The country has a highly effective military force but remains committed to resolving disputes peacefully wherever possible. It is an active participant in international organizations such as the United Nations and works hard to promote diplomacy and cooperation around the world.
Global Peace Index score: 1.332
Areas of strength:
- Low violent crime
- Low deaths from conflict (internal and external)
- Low political instability
- Low access to weapons
- Low terrorism activity
Austria
The Alpine Republic of Austria is one of the oldest nations in Europe and has a long history of neutrality. In modern times, Austria has been at the forefront of European integration and was one of the first countries to sign the European Union’s founding Treaty of Maastricht.
Today, Austria is consistently ranked as one of the most peaceful countries in the world, with political neutrality asserted as part of the Austrian constitution for almost 70 years. Austria also has a strong commitment to global peacefulness and international cooperation. It is a member of the United Nations and has participated in several UN peacekeeping missions.
In addition to its active role in international peacekeeping, Austria provides significant financial support to several organizations that promote peace, such as the International Peace Bureau and the Geneva Center for Security Policy.
Austria’s strict citizenship policy ensures that individuals who only want the best for the country can gain citizenship. The Austrian citizenship-by-investment program allows foreigners to become Austrian nationals by making a capital investment, but they first need to pass through a rigorous selection process that isn’t guaranteed, in addition to making a substantial investment of at least €3 million ($3.19 million) in the country’s economy. Only then can citizenship be granted.
Although Austrian citizenship may be unattainable for many individuals, check out this article for a list of the easiest countries to gain second citizenship.
Global Peace Index score: 1.316
Areas of strength:
- Low homicide rate
- Good neighboring country relations
- Low displaced people
- Low political instability
- Low political terror
New Zealand
The isolated twin island nation of New Zealand is considered one of the most peaceful countries in the world. New Zealand has one of the lowest crime rates of all countries and a high standard of living. Additionally, New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and peaceful scenery.
The geographical location in the most peaceful region and absence of external threats helped create a more open and tolerant society. This is proven by not just being the second most peaceful country in the world but also being highly ranked in the 2022 Social Progress Index, particularly in regard to personal rights. New Zealand has several programs to ensure that its indigenous peoples’ culture is preserved.
Global Peace Index score: 1.313
Areas of strength:
- High peacekeeping funding
- Low people displaced
- Low access to weapons
- High political stability
- Low internal conflicts fought
Ireland
Ireland is a small island nation off the coast of Western Europe. It is known for its lush green landscapes, friendly people, and rich culture. A recent history of intense violence during the Troubles conflict nearly brought the country to its knees, but since the Good Friday Agreement was signed in 1998, Ireland has remained a peaceful country ever since.
Over the past decade, the nation has ranked highly in global peacefulness, with very few violent protests, minimal civil unrest, and the lack of need for armed services personnel on the streets.
For investors and entrepreneurs, Ireland is one of the best places to incorporate a business, with low corporate taxes, access to the EU trading market, and a robust and well-regulated business framework.
Global Peace Index score: 1.312
Areas of strength:
- Low organized conflict (internal)
- Low violent demonstrations
- Low political terror
- High UN peacekeeping funding
- Low political terror
Denmark
Denmark consistently ranks among the top countries in the Global Peace Index, reflecting its status as one of the world’s most peaceful nations. This high ranking is attributed to Denmark’s strong governance, low levels of domestic and international conflict, and a high degree of societal safety and security.
The country’s commitment to upholding democratic values, a well-functioning public sector, and an emphasis on human rights and freedoms 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.
Global Peace Index score: 1.313
Areas of strength:
- Well-functioning public sector
- Low levels of domestic and international conflict
- High degree of societal safety
- Low political instability
- Effective criminal justice system
Iceland
You can almost call it a foregone conclusion to see Iceland ranked as the most peaceful place in the world. Finishing in first place for a staggering eleven years in a row, the level of peacefulness in Iceland is clearly unmatched.
To be ranked as the most peaceful country in the world means the nation must display many exemplary facets concerning global peacefulness. For one, the country has a tiny population—barely a fifth of the size of Manhattan’s. As a result, the whole nation displays a village mentality, and criminality is easily exposed.
Iceland also has a very non-conflictual culture—the only country on the list with no army, air force, or navy. Military spending is only designated to a neutral army based overseas for peacekeeping missions. It’s also one of the most LGBTQ-friendly nations, where being a member of the LGBTQ community isn’t something that is tolerated; it’s something that is celebrated.
Global Peace Index score: 1.11
Areas of strength:
- Low violent demonstrations
- Low weapons imports
- High US peacekeeping funding
- Low political instability
- Low perceived criminality in society
Frequently Asked Questions about the Most Peaceful Countries in the World
What is the most peaceful country in the world?
Iceland is the most peaceful in the world due to it being ranked the highest on the 2022 Global Peace Index. To find out which country is the most peaceful, 23 quantitative and qualitative indicators are used to measure factors such as perceived criminality in society, violent demonstrations, and displaced people.
What is the least violent country?
According to the 2022 Global Peace Index, Iceland is the least violent country in the world, with the lowest rates of violent demonstrations, weapons exports, and terrorist activity.
Iceland’s nonviolence is also proven by the absence – and need – of an army, along with minimal military spending and a balanced emphasis between economics and peace.
How complete is the Global Peace Index?
The GPI covers 163 countries comprising 99.7 per cent of the world’s population, using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators from highly respected sources, and measures the state of peace across three domains: the level of Societal Safety and Security; the extent of Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict; and the degree of militarization.
How is the least peaceful country?
According to the world’s leading measure of country stability, most of the least peaceful nations are in or close to the Middle East. Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan and Yemen are all in the bottom 12, which also includes some African countries such as Central African Republic, Mali, Sudan, Somalia and Democratic Republic
of the Congo. Ukraine and Russia are also included in the bottom 10 of the 2023 Global Peace Index.
