According to the Global Peace Index (GPI), the 2025 ranking of the world's most peaceful countries includes familiar names like Iceland, Denmark, and Singapore. The GPI, produced by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), a non-governmental organization in Australia, ranks 163 countries and territories, representing 99.7% of the world's population, based on 23 indicators such as crime rates, conflict, terrorism, and political stability.

The report has been published annually since 2007 with the advice of international peace experts and data from the Economist Intelligence Unit, the research and analysis division of the Economist newspaper. The peace assessment is based on two sub-indices: internal peace (60% weighting) and external peace (40% weighting), using quantitative and qualitative indicators standardized on a scale of 1-5.

Below is the list of the top 10 countries in the 2025 ranking.

1. Iceland

GPI score: 1.095 - unchanged from 2024.

Iceland has maintained its position as the most peaceful country in the world for 17 consecutive years. The country scored excellently in all three areas, especially Ongoing Conflict with a perfect score of 1.000 - no involvement in domestic or international conflicts.

The famous Blue Lagoon in Iceland. Photo: Headout

The famous Blue Lagoon in Iceland. Photo: Headout

This ranking reflects Iceland's robust institutions, low crime rate, minimal militarization, and high level of social trust. Iceland also ranks first globally in Safety and Security, making it the safest country in the world in 2025. With breathtaking landscapes of meadows, volcanoes, and hot springs, Iceland is an ideal destination for those who want to settle in the safest place in the world, despite the relatively high cost of living.

2. Ireland

GPI score: 1.260 - unchanged from 2024.

Ireland continues to hold a position near the top of the GPI, with strengths in Militarization - ranked 5th globally - and improvements in Safety and Security. The improved score is due to reduced political terror and better perceptions of crime. Global neutrality, low incarceration rates, and effective democratic institutions contribute to a peaceful environment.

3. New Zealand

GPI score: 1.282 - up two places from 2024.

New Zealand is the most peaceful country in the Asia-Pacific region and third globally. The country improved in both Ongoing Conflict and Safety and Security, with an overall peace level increase of 3.1%.

New Zealand is among the safest countries in the world in 2025 thanks to its effective management of violent demonstrations and the impact of terrorism. With majestic natural beauty, family-friendly towns, and outdoor activities, New Zealand attracts settlers because of its high quality of life.

4. Austria

GPI score: 1.294 - down one place from 2024.

Austria remains one of the leading peaceful countries despite dropping one place in 2025. The country has a strong record in Safety and Security and Militarization. Its central location in Europe, stable political environment, and low levels of internal and international conflict have supported Austria's high ranking.

Vienna, the capital of Austria. Photo: Kiker Holidays

Vienna, the capital of Austria. Photo: Kiker Holidays

Vienna, the capital, has been ranked by the Economist Intelligence Unit as the most livable city in the world for several years, but this year it ranks second after Copenhagen.

5. Switzerland

GPI score: 1.294 - down one place from 2024.

Switzerland, known for its neutrality and diplomacy, continues to be among the most peaceful countries in the world. Despite dropping one place, its overall score is virtually unchanged.

Switzerland benefits from political stability, low rates of violent crime, and limited involvement in international conflicts. The country also ranks 5th globally for Safety and Security this year.

6. Singapore

GPI score: 1.357 - unchanged from 2024.

Singapore is the most peaceful country in Southeast Asia and ranks sixth globally. The country performs exceptionally well in Ongoing Conflict and Safety and Security. It is also among the safest countries in the world, reflecting its low crime rates, political stability, and effective governance. Singapore attracts both international visitors and investors due to its developed economy, despite a high cost of living.

Inside Changi Airport. Photo: WSJ

Inside Changi Airport. Photo: WSJ

7. Portugal

GPI score: 1.371 - up one place from 2024.

Portugal has gradually returned to the top 10 in recent years thanks to improved perceptions of crime and political stability. Its rise to 7th place in 2025 demonstrates consistent investment in peaceful social development and domestic security. The country attracts tourists and those seeking to relocate due to its scenic landscapes, such as the village of Camara de Lobos, and high quality of life.

8. Denmark

GPI score: 1.393 - down one place from 2024.

Denmark remains one of the leading countries in peace but dropped one place due to a slight decline in Militarization. Like many European countries, Denmark faces increasing demands for defense spending and regional security concerns.

Nyhavn, a district famous for its colorful waterfront houses in Denmark. Photo: Expedia

Nyhavn, a district famous for its colorful waterfront houses in Denmark. Photo: Expedia

Ranked 6th globally in Safety and Security, Denmark is considered to have the best quality of life in the world, with factors like cost of living, job market, and healthcare.

9. Slovenia

GPI score: 1.409 - unchanged from 2024.

Slovenia maintains its position in the top 10 due to its low rates of violent crime, minimal political instability, and limited military involvement. Ranked 6th globally in Militarization, the country is considered a hidden gem of Europe with stunning landscapes, attracting international tourists.

10. Finland

GPI score: 1.420 - up one place from 2024.

Finland returns to the top 10 thanks to improvements in perceptions of crime and reduced levels of political terror. The country ranks third globally in Safety and Security, despite facing a complex security environment in Northern Europe. Finland is also consistently ranked as the happiest country in the world, attracting foreigners seeking a high quality of life.

Hoai Anh (Business Insider, Visit of Humanity)