The Global Peace Index reveals that the world has become less peaceful over the past 15 years, with a 0.42 percent decline in peace in 2023 alone. The gap between the least and most peaceful countries is widening, with the least peaceful countries experiencing a 12.1 percent decline and the most peaceful and safest countries in the world enjoying a 4.3 percent improvement between 2008 and 2022.
Safety and security are crucial for businesses. Countries with low crime rates, like New Zealand, Singapore, and Denmark, also rank highly for ease of doing business. Singapore, for instance, has achieved remarkable safety and economic growth since its independence, boasting a business-friendly environment and a competitive economy.
American tourists, a significant contributor to global travel and tourism, always seek safe destinations. Companies like Chubb Limited (NYSE) are working to make travel safer. Chubb, a leader in the travel insurance market, is developing a ‘Studio Developer Portal’ to leverage the smart tourism trend, offering partners access to digital insurance products and services.
Unfortunately, rising military spending worldwide suggests that world peace may continue to deteriorate. A 2023 report by Markets and Markets estimates the global defense market is now worth over $2 trillion, with a projected growth rate of 4.9% annually from 2024 to 2028. New military technologies, modernization programs, and increasing security threats drive this growth.
Rising military expenditures suggest further peace deterioration, but fortunately, some countries remain very safe. Our list of the world’s 30 safest countries in 2024 highlights these nations.
30 Safest Countries in the world in 2024
Safety is a paramount concern for many people when choosing a place to live or visit. In 2024, several countries will stand out for their exceptional safety records.
Here’s a detailed look at the 30 safest countries in the world this year, based on various factors including crime rates, political stability, and the 2024 Global Peace Index.
1. Iceland
In 2024, Iceland will top the list as the world’s safest country. With a small population and low crime rates, it remains a haven of peace. Iceland also ranked first on the 2023 Global Peace Index, highlighting its commitment to maintaining tranquility.
2. Denmark
Denmark is the second-safest country globally, ranking just behind Iceland. It scores exceptionally well on the 2023 Global Peace Index, particularly in areas such as political stability and low levels of violent crime.
3. Austria
Austria boasts very low crime rates, making it a secure place to live and visit. It ranks high on the Global Peace Index, with minimal internal conflicts and political instability.
4. New Zealand
New Zealand ranks fourth on the list, known for its stable government and strong community values. Reliable law enforcement and low crime rates underpin the country’s safety.
5. Singapore
Singapore is renowned for its strict laws and efficient policing, making it one of the safest places in the world. It ranks sixth on the 2023 Global Peace Index, reflecting its robust security measures and low crime rates.
6. Switzerland
Switzerland, with its low crime rates and stable political environment, ranks sixth among the safest countries. Although petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, violent crime is rare.
7. Slovenia
Slovenia is another safe destination with very low crime rates, particularly violent crime. It ranks eighth on the Global Peace Index, showing a strong commitment to peace and security.
8. Canada
Canada’s low crime rates, strict gun control laws, and efficient law enforcement will make it the eighth safest country in 2024. Its stable political environment also contributes to its high safety ranking.
9. Czech Republic
The Czech Republic offers safe communities with low crime rates and difficult access to weapons. The capital, Prague, is renowned for its safety and beauty.
10. Ireland
Ireland is among the top three countries on the Global Peace Index. It has a stable political environment and effective law enforcement, although visitors should be cautious of petty crimes in tourist areas.
11. Finland
Finland consistently ranks high on safety indices, with low crime rates and a peaceful environment. It scores well on the Global Peace Index’s various safety composites.
12. Germany
Germany is known for its safety, scoring high on the Global Peace Index with low levels of political terror and internal conflicts.
13. Japan
Japan remains one of the safest countries in 2024, with low crime rates and minimal terrorism incidents. It ranks ninth on the Global Peace Index.
14. Croatia
The 2023 Global Peace Index ranks Croatia 14th, emphasizing its low levels of internal conflict and overall safety.
15. Australia
Australia’s strong economy and low poverty levels contribute to its low crime rates. It ranks 22nd on the Global Peace Index, emphasizing its safe environment.
16. Hungary
Hungary, with a strong economy and low crime rates, ranks 18th on the Global Peace Index. Visitors should be cautious on the roads, as safety can vary by region.
17. Qatar
Qatar’s high ranking on the Global Peace Index and low levels of violent crime and internal conflicts highlight its safety.
18. Norway
Norway is known for its comprehensive social security system and low crime rates, making it one of the safest countries in the world.
19. Poland
Poland has one of the lowest crime rates in Europe and has shown a strong commitment to peacekeeping, enhancing its safety reputation.
20. Estonia
Estonia ranks 25th on the Global Peace Index with a stable environment and low crime rates, although visitors should remain vigilant.
21. Sweden
Sweden scores well on the Global Peace Index for political stability and low crime rates, making it a safe destination.
22. Mauritius
Mauritius has a low crime rate but is prone to natural threats like cyclones. Visitors should exercise caution while driving.
23. Bulgaria
Bulgaria is generally safe for tourists, despite its reputation for organized crime. It has low scores for terrorist activity and internal conflicts.
24. Latvia
Latvia’s strong social services contribute to its low crime rates, although petty crimes can occur in tourist areas.
25. Slovakia
The US Department of State classifies Slovakia as a low-threat location with very few violent crimes.
26. Netherlands
The Netherlands’ well-developed social services help keep crime rates low. Internal stability scores well on the Global Peace Index.
27. Bhutan
Bhutan has low violent crime rates, but it is located in an active seismic zone, posing a risk of earthquakes.
28. Belgium
Belgium’s stable sociopolitical environment and low violent crime rates make it one of the safest countries, despite past terrorist attacks.
29. Malaysia
Malaysia is generally safe for travelers, with a hospitable local population and low crime rates.
30. Portugal
Portugal is known for its low crime rates and stable environment. It ranks seventh on the Global Peace Index, reflecting its peaceful nature.
These 30 countries offer a combination of low crime rates, political stability, and effective law enforcement, making them the safest places in the world in 2024. Whether you are looking to travel or relocate, these countries provide a secure environment for their residents and visitors alike.
