A beautiful country has been named the safest in the world for 18 years in a row. Iceland has topped the Institute for Economics and Peace’s (IEP) Global Peace Index ranking for 18 years in a row.
To establish its ranking, the IEP used 23 indicators divided into three main categories: safety, domestic and international conflicts, and the degree of militarisation. Iceland has record-low crime rates, one of the lowest in the world, as well as one of Europe’s lowest murder rates and minimal corruption. It also rates highly on LGBTQ+ and gender equality, as one of the world’s safest places to travel as a woman. Iceland is rated one of the world’s happiest countries, coming third in the most recent ranking, just behind Finland and Denmark. The country also has an “enviable education and welfare system”, and ranks among the best nations in terms of jobs and earnings and subjective sense of well-being. For Icelandic residents, safety is an integral part of their daily lives. Inga Rós Antoníusdóttir, born in Iceland and managing director of the travel agency Intrepid Travel North Europe, told the BBC: “Although difficult weather conditions, especially in winter, do not always create a sense of safety, the community does.”
She continued: “You can walk alone at night with almost no worries; you see babies sleeping peacefully in their prams outside a café or shop while their parents enjoy a meal or go shopping; the local police do not carry weapons.”
Western and Central Europe remains the most peaceful region in the world, hosting eight of the 10 most peaceful countries globally, including Iceland
Ireland ranks second. Although marked by armed conflict throughout the 20th century, the IEP says it stands out for its efforts in terms of demilitarisation. Today, it is ranked among the countries with the fewest ongoing internal and international conflicts.
Jack Fitzsimons, a resident of County Kildare and director of activities at Kilkea Medieval Castle, told the BBC: "A deep sense of community and friendship makes you feel welcome and relaxed, whether you're in a small town or a big city. Here, people look out for each other. It's the kind of place where you can ask a stranger for help, and they will do everything they can to help you."
The first country outside Europe - New Zealand - completes the podium, two places higher than last year. The IEP has highlighted improvements in terms of risk and safety. Internal policies have also progressed, giving New Zealanders a sense of peace and confidence.
It should be noted that the top 10 is mainly made up of European countries. Behind New Zealand are Austria, Switzerland, Singapore, Portugal, Denmark, Slovenia and Finland.
