In a year marked by conflicts, five nations continue to rank among the most peaceful in the world.
In 2025, peace may seem like a rare commodity. Global wars are escalating, border security is tightening, and trade tensions continue to rise.
According to the 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI), the number of conflicts between states has reached the highest level since World War II, with three more erupting just this year. Many countries are responding to this situation with increased militarization.
However, despite these grim statistics, some nations continue to prioritize peace. The GPI ranking, compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace, tracks 23 indicators, from external conflicts and military expenditures to safety and security measures, such as terrorism and homicides.
The top-ranking countries on the index have been remarkably consistent for nearly two decades, demonstrating the stability that peaceful policies can bring in the long run.
Residents of some of the most peaceful countries in the world have explained to BBC the impact of these policies on their daily lives and what gives them a unique sense of security and calm.
Iceland: Equal Opportunities and Robust Social Systems
Ranked first since 2008, Iceland remains the most peaceful nation in the world, leading in all three domains: safety and security, ongoing conflict, and militarization. It has even recorded a 2% improvement this year, widening the gap from the country in second place.
For locals, this sense of safety is integrated into daily life. "Although harsh weather conditions, especially in winter, may not always create a sense of security, the community does," said Inga Rós Antoníusdóttir, who was born in Iceland and is the Managing Director of Intrepid Travel North Europe. "You can walk alone at night, mostly without worries; you will see babies sleeping peacefully in strollers in front of cafes and shops, while their parents enjoy a meal or run errands; and the local police do not carry firearms."
Inga believes that Iceland's top global gender equality policies are what allow women to feel safe: "Equal opportunities and robust social systems create a fairer and safer society for everyone."
She recommends visitors to experience this inner calm by following the daily rituals of the locals: "Go swimming in a geothermal pool and chat with strangers in the hot tub; hike a mountain, whether it's an afternoon climbing Mount Esja right next to Reykjavik or a multi-day trek in mountainous areas," she said. "The real Iceland is found in its thriving music and art scene, in nature, away from the main tourist attractions and in any kind of weather."
Ireland: People Take Care of Each Other Here
Although marked by conflicts since the end of the 20th century, today's Ireland continues to prioritize peace. It has received exceptionally high scores for reducing militarization year after year and ranks among the countries with the fewest ongoing internal and international conflicts. It has also placed in the top 10 for the safety and security of society, with low perceptions of crime and violence.
This sentiment extends throughout the country for residents. "A deep sense of community and friendship makes you feel welcome and at ease, whether you are in a small town or a big city," said Jack Fitzsimons, a resident of Kildare and Director of Experiences at Kilkea Castle.
He says that strong social support systems and the emphasis on community well-being also reduce inequality and tension. "People take care of each other here," he added. "It's the kind of place where you can ask a stranger for help, and they will do everything they can for you."
On the global stage, Ireland maintains military neutrality (which prevents it from being an official NATO member, remaining one of the four European countries not to be a member) and a preference for using diplomacy to resolve conflicts.
Internally, the country prioritizes the preservation of landscapes and cultural sites and ensures that all travelers always feel welcome. "I am still amazed at how surprised guests are by how friendly the Irish are. For us, it's part of our fabric, as we have an innate sense of hospitality towards visitors from abroad," said Fitzsimons.
New Zealand: The Country Where People Are a Superpower
This year, New Zealand has climbed two spots, reaching third place, due to improvements in safety and security, as well as a smaller number of demonstrations and terrorism impact.
Being a Pacific island nation, New Zealand's geography provides natural protection against external conflicts, but its domestic policies also give residents a sense of peace.
"New Zealand's gun laws are among the strictest in the world, which absolutely contributes to the sense of safety," said Mischa Mannix-Opie, a long-time New Zealander and Customer Experience Director at Greener Pastures relocation firm.
She adds that it is a place where children walk to school, people leave their doors unlocked, and drivers will stop to help if a vehicle breaks down on the side of the road. "There is a general trust in others and the systems around you, which creates a true sense of community in daily life," she explains.
Beyond the strong social safety net and universal access to healthcare, New Zealanders value their connection to nature, whether it's beach walks, wilderness hikes, or a glass of wine under the stars, says Mannix-Opie.
The sense of community also means plenty of festivals and events for all ages, with a focus on family-friendly environments. While many visitors come for the landscapes, often it is the sense of safety and community belonging that leaves a lasting impression.
"Beyond the postcard landscapes, New Zealand has real depth. People are authentic, Maori culture is rich and pervasive, and the slower pace of life can truly change your perspective," said Mannix-Opie. "A client told me that, although New Zealand is beautiful, our people are our superpower."
Austria: 100% Comfort and Mutual Trust in Systems
Austria has dropped one spot in the ranking this year, landing in fourth place, but continues to excel in all criteria. Like Ireland, Austria adopts a neutrality policy mandated by the Constitution, preventing it from joining military alliances such as NATO. This allows it to focus attention and resources internally.
"Austria's long-standing neutrality policy means the nation invests in its people rather than conflicts. A strong social safety net, world-class healthcare, and excellent education promote stability and trust," said Armin Pfurtscheller, owner of SPA-Hotel Jagdhof.
He lives in Neustift, in the Stubai Valley, where he says people walk along the Ruetz river at midnight, houses are left unlocked, and bicycles are left unchained in front of cafes. "Safety is not just a statistic but how life feels," he emphasizes.
Pfurtscheller also notices this sense of ease among guests who come to stay in the valley. "After a few days, their shoulders drop, the stress disappears, and they sleep like in childhood," he said. "They start to notice the noise of the river, the way the light changes on the mountains, and the simple joy of taking a deep breath. This is the greatest sense of security this place offers: the certainty that here you are free to just be."
Singapore: Walk Late at Night Without Fear
The city-state of Singapore maintains its sixth position, being the only Asian country in the top 10 (Japan and Malaysia rank 12th and 13th, respectively).
Singapore ranks very high in terms of safety and security, even though it maintains one of the highest levels of military spending per capita in the world, surpassed only by North Korea and Qatar.
The absence of ongoing conflicts and internal security leads to a strong sense of safety for most residents. "I walk late at night and I'm not afraid. Walking home is not overwhelming or anxiety-inducing, as it is in most big cities," said resident Xinrun Han. "There is 100% comfort and mutual trust in the system, creating a calm, caring, and peaceful environment," she adds.
Although Singapore's conservative stance on LGBT+ rights limits some freedoms, such as same-sex marriage still being illegal, social progress is visible through events like the growing Pink Dot festival. Many have reported feeling safer at this year's edition than in past decades, as young people push for broader acceptance.
Han recommends visitors to enjoy the freedoms that come with safety, such as strolling along the river at 02:00 in the morning, when they can buy food from a street vendor, or visiting the park after dark: "Everything feels very liberating, whether you are a resident or a visitor."
Top 10 Safest Countries
- Finland
- Iceland
- Ireland
- New Zealand
- Austria
- Switzerland
- Singapore
- Portugal
- Denmark
- Slovenia
Source: Global Peace Index
T.D.