Every year, the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) publishes the Global Peace Index (GPI). Countries are given a peace score, which is calculated and based on data regarding militarization, ongoing conflicts, safety, and security.
The GPI score is issued annually and you are about to discover the countries ranked as the most peaceful in the world as we head into 2024. This post provides the top 30 countries rated as peaceful, and will explore a bit about the top five countries.
The World’s Top 5 Most Peaceful Countries
#1 Iceland: Ranked #1 for the world, Iceland is considered the most peaceful country in the world. They received the lowest rating of the 195 countries that make up our planet.
Known for it’s rugged countryside and beautiful terrain, this Nordic island nation has a super low crime rate and is the only NATO member without an army. They do have a small Coast Guard which maintains the country’s line of defense.
Like most of the Nordic countries, Iceland is also considered to be one of the happiest places to live on earth, taking the #3 spot for 2023.
#2 Denmark: Denmark also has a lot to brag about. Ranked as the 2nd most peaceful country on earth, they also took the #2 spot for happiest country!
This Scandinavian country is well known for it’s lively cities and bucolic landscapes. There are a few reasons for Denmark’s sweep of these two top rankings:
- They have a superb infrastructure
- Their welfare system is top-notch
- They have a healthy and successful economy
These three factors make Denmark a country with an exceptional quality of life.
#3 Ireland: Ranking third on the GPI score list, Ireland is one of most peaceful countries in the world. Considered to be one of the friendliest countries, it is also well-respected around the world.
Known for its verdant green countryside, as well as the rich and ancient cultural traditions, this European nation ranks #14 for happiness too. Maybe it’s all the singing and dancing at the pubs.
#4 New Zealand: Number four in the Global Peace Index, New Zealand is known for its lush green landscapes featured in the Lord of the Rings movies. Also outstanding is the vibrant culture and friendly locals.
This island nation near Australia in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, has a very effective government which makes it a great place to live. Maybe that’s why New Zealand is the 10th happiest country on the planet.
#5 Austria: Austria is the not only known as the home of the famous composer Mozart, but also for some of the finest pastry in the world. This Central European country is ranked #5 on the GP index.
Nestled in the Alps, people flock to this popular tourist destination, visiting opulent castles and palaces. In addition, the country enjoys a high standard of living due to its very low crime rate.
The Top 30 Most Peaceful Countries
Below, you’ll see the full list of the top 30 countries on the Global Peace Index, as determined by Institute for Economics and Peace. One thing worth noting is that 21 of the 30 most peaceful countries on this impressive list are European.
- Iceland
- Denmark
- Ireland
- New Zealand
- Austria
- Singapore
- Portugal
- Slovenia
- Japan
- Switzerland
- Canada
- Czechia
- Finland northern
- Croatia
- Germany
- Netherlands
- Bhutan
- Hungary
- Malaysia
- Belgium
- Qatar
- Australia
- Mauritius
- Norway
- Estonia
- Slovakia
- Latvia
- Sweden
- Poland
- Bulgaria
Let’s hope someday soon, the United States will be added to the list of esteemed peaceful nations.