Top 10 Safest Countries in the World: These 10 Countries Lead the World in Peace & Security

Top 10 Safest Countries in the World

In an increasingly interconnected world, safety remains a top priority for both travelers and residents. Whether you're planning a vacation, considering a relocation, or simply curious about global security, certain countries stand out for their exceptional safety standards.

From low crime rates and political stability to efficient emergency response systems and strong governance, these nations offer peaceful environments that prioritize the well-being of their citizens and visitors.

In this article, we take a closer look at the top 10 safest countries in the world, highlighting what makes them secure and how they maintain such high standards of safety.

10. Canada

Canada's reputation for friendliness extends to its safety record. The country's multicultural approach, inclusive policies, and strong social programs foster community cohesion.

Despite vast wilderness areas, Canada maintains excellent emergency services and disaster response capabilities.

The nation's gun control laws and community policing approaches contribute to relatively low violent crime rates compared to its southern neighbor.

• Key Safety Factors: Canada is known for its political stability, robust social programs, and low violent crime rates. Strong gun control laws, a well-funded healthcare system, and disaster preparedness contribute to its safe environment.
• Cost of Living: Canada offers a relatively high cost of living, especially in major cities like Vancouver and Toronto.
• Tourism & Activities: Explore the natural wonders of Banff National Park, the vibrant city life of Toronto, or visit the French-speaking province of Quebec for a taste of European charm.

9. Switzerland

Switzerland's neutrality, political stability, and economic prosperity contribute to its exceptional safety profile.

The country's direct democracy system gives citizens significant input into governance, fostering trust in institutions.

• Switzerland's efficient emergency services, healthcare system, and infrastructure maintenance create a secure environment despite challenging Alpine terrain.
• Key Safety Factors: Switzerland combines neutrality, political stability, and efficient emergency services. It maintains one of the highest standards of living globally, along with effective public services.
• Cost of Living: Switzerland is expensive, with high costs for housing, food, and healthcare, particularly in cities like Zurich and Geneva.
• Tourism & Activities: The Swiss Alps are a major draw for tourists, offering skiing, hiking, and breathtaking landscapes. The country’s rich cultural heritage also makes it a hub for art, music, and history.

8. Japan

Japan's remarkable safety record reflects deeply ingrained cultural values of respect, conformity, and community responsibility.

Despite being one of the world's most densely populated countries, Japan maintains extremely low crime rates.

The nation's disaster preparedness systems are world-renowned, helping mitigate risks from earthquakes, tsunamis, and typhoons.

• Key Safety Factors: Japan's safety is largely attributed to cultural values of respect and community responsibility, combined with strict law enforcement and low crime rates.
• Cost of Living: Japan offers a range of living costs, with cities like Tokyo being high-end but more affordable areas available in smaller towns.
• Tourism & Activities: Mount Fuji, traditional temples in Kyoto, and the modern urban energy of Tokyo are just a few highlights. Don’t miss the cherry blossom season in spring!

7. Singapore

Singapore's strict legal system and enforcement have created one of the world's safest urban environments.

The city-state has leveraged technology for comprehensive surveillance systems while maintaining clean streets, efficient public transportation, and excellent healthcare.

Singapore's focus on education and economic opportunity has fostered a stable society with minimal violent crime.

• Key Safety Factors: Singapore's strict laws and enforcement, coupled with advanced surveillance systems, make it one of the safest urban environments. High standards of healthcare and low corruption further contribute to its safety.
• Cost of Living: The cost of living is high, particularly in housing and transportation. However, food and daily expenses are more affordable.
• Tourism & Activities: Explore iconic landmarks like Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Sentosa Island. The city-state is a food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of Asian cuisines.

6. Austria

Austria combines cultural richness with exceptional safety measures. The country's efficient public services, clean cities, and reliable infrastructure create a secure environment for citizens and visitors alike.

Austria's strong legal system, police presence, and social safety nets prevent many of the conditions that lead to crime in other nations.

• Key Safety Factors: Austria’s strong legal system, well-trained police forces, and public services make it a very safe destination. The country also boasts low crime rates and a high standard of living.
• Cost of Living: Vienna, Austria’s capital, has a relatively high cost of living, but smaller towns are more affordable.
• Tourism & Activities: Visit Vienna for its imperial palaces and world-class museums, or explore the scenic Austrian Alps for skiing and hiking.

5. Slovenia

Often overlooked in discussions of global safety, Slovenia boasts extraordinarily low crime rates and high environmental standards.

This small European nation benefits from political stability, excellent education systems, and pristine natural environments.

Slovenia's strategic location at the crossroads of European cultures has fostered tolerance and diversity.

• Key Safety Factors: Slovenia is politically stable, with low crime rates and a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. The country’s efficient healthcare and low corruption levels contribute to its safety.
• Cost of Living: Slovenia is more affordable compared to Western European countries, making it an attractive option for expats.
• Tourism & Activities: Visit Lake Bled, explore the underground caves of Postojna, or hike in the Julian Alps. Slovenia’s beautiful natural environment is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

4. Portugal

Portugal has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, evolving from political turbulence to become one of Europe's safest nations.

The country's progressive drug policies, focusing on treatment rather than criminalization, have significantly reduced drug-related crime.

Portugal's welcoming attitude toward immigrants and refugees has fostered social harmony rather than tension.

• Key Safety Factors: Portugal is known for its low crime rates and progressive drug policies, which focus on treatment over criminalization. It also has one of the lowest levels of political violence in Europe.
• Cost of Living: Portugal is relatively affordable, especially when compared to other Western European countries. Lisbon and Porto are the most expensive cities, but smaller towns offer a more budget-friendly lifestyle.
• Tourism & Activities: Portugal offers beautiful beaches, historic cities like Lisbon and Porto, and picturesque landscapes like the Douro Valley.

3. Denmark

Denmark's safety stems from its robust social welfare programs, high trust in government, and low corruption levels.

The Danish concept of "hygge" (contentment and well-being) reflects in society through low income inequality and strong community bonds.

The country's excellent healthcare system, bike-friendly infrastructure, and emphasis on work-life balance further enhance overall security.

• Key Safety Factors: Denmark’s strong social welfare programs, high levels of trust in government, and low corruption contribute to its safety. The Danish society places a high value on equality and community.
• Cost of Living: Copenhagen can be expensive, but smaller cities like Aarhus or Odense are more affordable.
• Tourism & Activities: Explore Copenhagen’s royal palaces, the scenic coastlines, or the Viking heritage sites. Denmark is also known for its bicycle-friendly cities.

2. New Zealand

New Zealand combines breathtaking natural landscapes with exceptional safety standards.

The country's progressive governance, respect for indigenous rights, and strong environmental protections create a stable society with low crime rates.

New Zealand's effective disaster preparedness systems also help mitigate risks from natural events like earthquakes and volcanic activity.

• Key Safety Factors: New Zealand has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, with a strong focus on environmental conservation and respect for indigenous Maori rights.
• Cost of Living: The cost of living is relatively high, particularly in cities like Auckland, but affordable in smaller towns.
• Tourism & Activities: New Zealand offers incredible outdoor activities, from exploring Hobbiton to hiking in Fiordland National Park. Its stunning landscapes are a paradise for adventure seekers.

1. Iceland

Iceland consistently tops global safety rankings with remarkably low crime rates and virtually no violent crime.

The country's strong social welfare system, gender equality, and high standard of living contribute to its peaceful society.

Iceland's isolated geographic position also minimizes external security threats, while its well-trained police force maintains safety without carrying firearms during routine duties.

• Key Safety Factors: Iceland has one of the lowest crime rates globally, with a strong emphasis on community policing and gender equality. Its isolated geographic location reduces external security threats.
• Cost of Living: Iceland is one of the more expensive countries in terms of living costs, but the country offers high-quality healthcare and public services.
• Tourism & Activities: Iceland is famous for its stunning natural beauty, including geysers, waterfalls, glaciers, and the Northern Lights. It’s a must-see destination for nature lovers.

Global Peace Index (GPI) 2024-2025