In a world that often feels chaotic, some nations stand out as oases of calm, places where you could stroll home late at night without worrying too much.
These safest countries share several commonalities: high levels of wealth, robust social welfare systems, excellent education, effective criminal justice systems, and governments capable of maintaining healthy relationships with their citizens.
Meanwhile, the Global Peace Index 2024 ranks 163 countries, covering 99.7% of the world’s population, based on 23 qualitative and quantitative factors. These include perceived criminality, military expenditure, internal conflicts, and political instability.
Unlike most unsafe countries to live in, according to the 2025 data from the Institute for Economics & Peace, via the Global Peace Index, here are ten of the safest countries on Earth:
1. Iceland
For over a decade, Iceland has held the crown as the world’s most peaceful spot, and in 2025, that still holds. With virtually no violent crime, no standing army, and an overall vibe of societal trust, people go about their business without the paranoia many of us know too well.
It helps that Icelanders enjoy high standards of living, universal healthcare access, and a general sense of social equality. So, it is not just safe, it is peaceful in every sense of the word.
2. Ireland
Ireland slides into second place because of its stable institutions, relatively low crime, and a police force that has done well at keeping order.
Even though some minor crimes have ticked up recently, overall danger from internal conflict or violent crime remains low, making it a place where you can walk around without constantly looking over your shoulder.
3. Austria
Austria makes the list, thanks to a robust judicial system, low levels of violent crime, and a well-managed economy that keeps social unrest to a minimum.
Violent incidents are rare, and even urban centers, with their occasional petty crime, remain significantly safer than many other places in the world.
4. New Zealand
With its low population density and tight-knit communities, New Zealand offers a sense of calm that’s pretty rare these days.
Crime rates are low, and people, locals, and expats alike often note how safe it feels to walk around, even at odd hours.
Plus, a reliable healthcare system and stable governance add to the overall sense of security.
5. Singapore
Singapore now cracks the top five, and it is easy to see why. The tight laws, vigilant enforcement, and a diligent police presence keep even minor crimes like pickpocketing rare.
The city-state scores extremely high in societal safety and security, and its ongoing stability, both socially and economically, makes it a haven for travelers and expats alike.
6. Switzerland
Switzerland’s reputation for peace and neutrality goes beyond cliché; it shows up in low violent-crime rates, excellent public services, and one of the world’s highest life expectancies.
Even in major cities like Zurich or Geneva, many locals say they feel safe walking alone at night: a statement people living in high-crime cities rarely utter.
7. Portugal
Portugal has been climbing up peace rankings over the past few years, and in 2025, it is firmly among the top ten.
The homicide rate is low, involvement in international conflicts is minimal, and the social systems. Healthcare to social welfare are stable enough to reduce social pressures that often lead to unrest.
8. Denmark
Denmark remains a stable, peaceful place where trust in the community and government helps keep life smooth. Crime is rare, homicide is almost non-existent, and many people report feeling safe at all hours.
Their welfare system and social safety nets add to the overall backdrop of calm and security.
9. Slovenia
Slovenia may not always make headlines across the media, but tucked away in Central Europe, it offers a quiet, stable environment. It ranks high primarily because of low crime, minimal conflict, and a well-functioning social structure.
For travelers or those looking for a peaceful base in Europe, Slovenia quietly checks a lot of boxes.
10. Finland
At the tenth safest country in the world is Finland, a country where social trust, strong governance, and effective institutions converge to make everyday life feel calm.
Though no place is absolutely perfect, Finland’s combination of safety, social stability, and quality of life makes it a standout in 2025.
These countries are considered safe because of their strong institutions, good governance, and low corruption, and factors that keep societal tension in check. Low levels of violent crime and minimal internal conflict: whether it’s petty theft or large-scale unrest, these places keep both under control.
Also, social welfare systems, accessible healthcare, economic stability, and social cohesion reduce stressors that often lead to crime. Cultural attitudes toward safety, enforcement, and community are all blending to build societies where people look out for each other.