20 Most Peaceful Countries in the World 2026

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Do you know which are the most peaceful countries in the world? Since 2007, the Global Peace Index has been published annually by the IEP (Institute for Economics and Peace) and measures the peacefulness of nations and regions using external and internal indicators. Although it seems like the world is becoming more cruel, according to the Global Peace Index report, there are 20 countries in the world that are the most peaceful.

Most Peaceful Country in the World 2026

163 countries received an assessment of how safe it is to live in their territory. Countries are evaluated by an international group of experts – sociologists and economists. They are on the expert committee of the Institute for Economics and Peace and the Center for Conflict Studies at the University of Sydney.

They rate the so-called Global Peace Index (GPI) on a scale of 1 to 5. It considers three parameters: the level of security and safety in society, the current internal and international conflicts in which the country is involved, and the overall degree of the country’s militarization. The higher a country’s ranking, the more it is recommended, among other things, for tourists to visit.

This year, Iceland became the most peaceful country in the world, 2026, which, by the way, has held this position continuously since 2008. It’s followed by New Zealand, and Ireland closes the top three.

Top 20 Most Peaceful Countries in the World

Taking into account all indicators, we present to your attention the ranking of the most peace-loving countries in the world. So, if you are planning to emigrate but have not yet decided where, then choosing a country from this list will be the best decision.

1. Iceland

Iceland tops the list of the most peaceful countries in the world, staying out of major conflicts. Iceland seldom hits the headlines, and despite the collapse of its banks several years ago, the country remains an amazing place of spectacular natural beauty.

Despite its volcanoes and glaciers, Iceland consistently ranks at the top of the list, holding its spot for years. There are many reasons for this. Here are some of them: a low crime rate, comfortable weather conditions, clean air, and, in general, a feeling of that tiny, cozy town where everyone knows each other and treats each other kindly. All this creates a very light, positive atmosphere that everyone will feel as soon as they are here.

Read also – 10 Happiest Countries in the World 2017

The state does not participate in military conflicts and spends the least on its army. The number of prisoners per 100,000 inhabitants is 33. This is the lowest figure in Europe and the eighth result worldwide.

Tourists from all over the world come to Iceland to see its vast glaciers and active volcanoes, as well as numerous unique natural and cultural attractions in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland.

2. New Zealand

Each year since 2007, the Institute for Economics and Peace has ranked New Zealand as one of the most peaceful countries in the world. With a small percentage of its population in prison, limited military capability, strong relations with Australia, and down-to-earth hospitality, New Zealand is a wonderful country to live in.

New Zealand has been largely unaffected by the coronavirus pandemic. The state effectively copes with the economic consequences and ensures the population’s safety. But experts have noticed that weapons imports and military spending are growing in the country.

This is a country of natural beauty, diverse scenery, and quirky natives. Visitors from all over the world come to New Zealand to experience the rugged landscape, breathtaking alpine glaciers, awesome beaches, and fantastic geothermal and volcanic activity. The country is also renowned for its fine wines, and there are many grape varieties planted throughout New Zealand. So if you are a great wine lover, you should definitely visit New Zealand at least once in your life. New Zealand is a comfortable place to live. Here, no one prevents you from realizing yourself in comfortable conditions for your entire family.

More: 10 Best Places to Visit in New Zealand

3. Ireland

With its rich historical sites, stunning green pastures, and friendly people, it’s not surprising that Ireland is among the most peaceful countries in the world in 2026. Ireland is an overall fabulous country with plenty of reasons to visit! Its rich literary history, castle-topped hills, spectacular coastline, and legendary hospitality make Ireland a wonderful place to visit any time of the year.

The security situation in Ireland is relatively good, and the political conditions are stable. However, standard precautions are recommended. In case of any danger, you can call 112 or 999 or go to the nearest police station. The police in Ireland are called “An Garda Siochana”. The Irish Police are trustworthy because they will take care of your safety and do everything they can to help you.

Many indicators of well-being here are even higher than in European countries. For example, Ireland has better living conditions and higher environmental quality. As a result, its people are healthier and subjectively feel happier than most Western Europeans. The Irish are generally satisfied with their lives, especially in recent times. The pace and rhythm of life here are completely different. It’s calm, measured, and relaxed. Nobody is in a hurry. People try not to accumulate stress: they work to a minimum, and in the evenings they go to pubs and restaurants. There they meet with friends and neighbors, discuss current events and the latest news, and share plans and impressions.

More: 10 Most Beautiful Places in the World

4. Denmark

Denmark is the fourth most peaceful country on Earth because it’s a really safe place to live. Even while Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, was under occupation by the Nazis during World War II, it still did not fight. Democracy, social equality, and a friendly atmosphere within the country make Denmark one of the most peaceful countries in the world.

Denmark is one of the best countries in the world for quality of life, where the state actively supports its population through various social benefits. According to the UN report, Denmark also ranks third in terms of population happiness. Also, the country is considered the best place for developing international business and life with children.

The point is that people living in Denmark prefer to focus on economic matters rather than engage in various armed conflicts. Danish people are very friendly, open, and helpful. Personally, I have been to Copenhagen twice, and I wish I lived in this wonderful city. I’m pretty sure that those who have been to Denmark at least once could say the same.

More: 4 Great Tourist Attractions in Denmark

5. Austria

Austria is a small, landlocked Central European country that has earned a place on the list of the world’s most peaceful countries for its stance in international politics. Since World War I, the breakup of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and World War II, Austria has been content to embrace a life of peace and serenity.

Austria has a lot to offer, from the high-quality environment and rich cultural heritage to the vivid impressions of the country and its people. With a rich cultural offering, superb landscapes, and a dynamic, innovative economy, Austria is widely regarded as a cultural nation, holiday destination, and business partner.

Austria has all this and much more: the wealthiest culture, classic architecture and branded stores, the highest-quality environment, absolute security, and a high standard of living. Not surprisingly, Austria is considered one of the most peaceful countries.

Many people claim that Austria is a great country to live in, and I agree. After all, with its world-famous resorts in the breathtaking Alps and magnificent cultural centers like Vienna, it’s not surprising to see Austria on this list.

6. Portugal

You might be surprised to know that Portugal is one of the most peaceful countries in the world, but it is true. The country has been a member of the EU for roughly 27 years, participating in the European Monetary System and using the single European currency. According to the World Bank, Portugal is the world’s 43rd largest economy and has one of the highest GDP growth rates among OECD countries.

The country has low crime rates, excellent living standards, and a stable government. In addition, the country has a high level of medicine and education. Plus, fascinating sandy beaches, golden plains, and impressive mountains, a millennial heritage, and vibrant cities make Portugal one of the most popular countries among people who want to move to warmer climes.

In terms of security, Portugal ranks second among European countries. The Global Peace Index confirms this. The locals are friendly and law-abiding citizens. The people of Portugal have a great attitude towards guests and immigrants and are always ready to help.

7. Slovenia

A beautiful European country, Slovenia, is another peaceful country in 2026. The country received its lowest marks for funding for United Nations peacekeeping missions, the number of police and security officers, the level of perceived criminality in society, the number of organized internal conflicts, violent protests, and the number of internal and external wars fought.

This one of the most peaceful countries in the world is reasonably safe. The country has a low crime rate; according to statistics, 90% of crimes involve theft. The likelihood of terrorist attacks on its territory tends to be zero. Therefore, it is not scary to be on the streets of Slovenian cities at any time of the day. Slovenia is also considered one of the best countries to retire in.

I agree with the Global Peace Index and believe that Slovenia deserves its place on the list of the world’s most peaceful countries. Moreover, Slovenia is a fantastic travel destination with wonderful cities like Maribor and Ljubljana, teeming with a unique culture.

More: 10 Reasons Slovenia Should Be Your Next Destination

8. Czech Republic

A relatively new country, the Czech Republic, formed after the division of Czechoslovakia, has focused mainly on building a strong capitalist economy and creating a stable climate for investment. In 2009, the Human Development Index (HDI) ranked the Czech Republic as a country of ‘Very High Human Development.’ Primarily renowned for its magnificent capital city, Prague, and breathtaking natural beauty, the Czech Republic draws many tourists from all over the world.

The Czech Republic is rightly included on the list of the most peaceful countries for several reasons. It has good indicators, for example, due to low rates of homicides and other violent crimes, or the relative difficulty of accessing guns. The low level of political pressure on the population and the sense of security also contribute to the country’s calm.

The Czech Republic is a safe country to live in. This is evidenced by both official statistics and the experiences of many tourists. Therefore, you can very well return home at 11 pm along a dark street without fear of something happening to you.

In addition, the Czech Republic has good environmental conditions for living. The exceptions are its industrial areas: the cities of Most and Ostrava. The Czechs are actively interested in ecological issues, sorting garbage, and instilling “environmentally friendly” habits in children, starting from kindergarten. Moreover, you can also get a decent European education and find a well-paid job, as there is a high concentration of high-paying vacancies.

More: 9 Best Places to Study Abroad

9. Singapore

One of the world’s leading commercial hubs, Singapore, closes the list of the top 20 most peaceful countries in the world 2026. With its low crime rate, the country boasts a vibrant history, safe urban areas, friendly and welcoming people, and astonishing ornamental landscapes.

The Lion City has always been a popular tourist destination, and now it is becoming the place where people want to live and thrive. Some remarkable tourist attractions include Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Flyer, Chinatown, and Singapore Zoo.

Singapore pays close attention to security. As a result, the general order on the streets, even in the most remote areas of the city, is very high and is maintained by law enforcement agencies. The law is also very strictly enforced here.

Today, it is one of the richest countries in the world, with a developed, prosperous market economy characterized by a favorable business environment, low levels of corruption, and a stable tax policy. Life in Singapore mainly attracts lovers of exotic and oriental flavors. According to the World Economic Forum’s Quality of Life Index, Singapore has the highest standard of living in Asia and ranks 11th globally.

More: 15 Most Beautiful Places to Enjoy Solitude

10. Japan

One of the most culturally enchanting countries, Japan has the third-largest economy in the world. Since World War II, Japan has been very peaceful, with little internal conflict and low crime rates. The country establishes an internal security force to maintain peace. Japan is a peaceful and breathtakingly beautiful country worth visiting.

Living in Japan today is associated with well-being, access to modern gadgets and technologies in all areas of life, and immersion in a unique culture. The Country of the Rising Sun provides its inhabitants with well-developed healthcare, a high level of legal protection, and quality education. All this is based on the soil of a stable economy and financial system.

Tourists from all over the world come to see Japanese prosperity, and some decide to move to one of the most peaceful countries.

11. Switzerland

According to IEP, the Swiss maintain a well-functioning government and an open political culture. Illustrating the quality of government, Switzerland is among the world’s most peaceful countries, with low levels of violent crime.

Although Switzerland is known for its neutrality in regional, international, and global political issues, it maintains strong diplomatic relations with many countries worldwide. In addition, Switzerland has a low crime rate and minimal risk of strikes, as well as of political violence or the threat of terrorism.

There are practically no harmful industries that poison the air with greenhouse emissions. Therefore, according to Yale University, the state is in the top 3 most environmentally friendly.

Switzerland is a prosperous nation with excellent relations with most of its neighbors and other jurisdictions. The neutrality of Switzerland is at the heart of this prosperity, allowing it to serve as a negotiating venue and a refuge in times of crisis.

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12. Canada

Having one of the best standards of living in the world, Canada is also one of the most peaceful countries on Earth. It has a population of approximately 33 million people, yet it is the second-largest country in the world by area.

This state is traditionally ahead of the United States, ranking among the most peaceful states. The choice is clear if you are looking for the best place to live in North America with safety in mind. Canada scores highly on several dimensions related to conflict involvement, crime rates, and political stability.

This peaceful country is known for its friendliness toward expats and the population’s love of outdoor living, thanks to the abundance of forests and green spaces in its settlements. As a result, the quality of the environment here is decent, and the life expectancy of Canadians is above average. With clean and safe cities, spectacular scenery, and extremely friendly people, Canada is a wonderful and peaceful country to live in.

More: 7 Most Popular Tourist Attractions in Canada

13. Hungary

Hungary is known for its friendly people, who are always ready to help tourists experience its unique beauty. Hungary attracts over a million tourists from around the world with its breathtaking, lush forests, spectacular landscapes, serene lakes, unusual museums, castles, palaces, and fabulous cathedrals.

Castle Hill, Matthias Church, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Vajdahunyad Castle, Margaret Island, Miniversum, Gresham Palace, Music Fountain, and Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden are among the most visited places in Hungary.

According to the 2026 Global Peace Index report, Hungary is one of the most peaceful countries in the world. Although the country had some problems in the past, it’s rather peaceful to visit and live in nowadays.

There are several factors that make Hungary one of the most peaceful countries in 2026. Higher salaries, lower food prices than the Russian average, and goods of much better quality. The environmental situation is one of the best in Europe. The local population’s attitude towards visitors is quite loyal, which is essential for migrants. Hiking, biking, camping, and backpacking are popular summer activities, while skiing is a perfect winter option.

14. Finland

Finland is considered one of the most peaceful and livable countries, which is not renowned for its combative nature. In 2015, it was ranked the world’s most stable country in the Failed States Index, first in the Press Freedom Index and the World Human Capital Index, and second in the Global Gender Gap Report.

The inhabitants of the country have the lowest risk of stress and nervous diseases, since Finland ranks highest on the happiness index. The number of citizens who feel happy has been the highest in the world over the past four years.

When speaking about Finland, I want to talk about its education. Finland places education at the heart of literally everything. As a result, Finland’s education system is ranked fifth best in the world.

Finland has a high standard of living, security, a lack of corruption and bureaucracy, an excellent environment, an impeccable ecology, and social protection systems. In addition, Finnish society is very tolerant of immigrants. All this gives the right to call Finland one of the world’s most peaceful countries in 2026.

15. Croatia

Croatia is a unique country that harmoniously combines European, Eastern, and Slavic cultures. This is one of the safest countries in the European Union, with a reasonably high standard of living that is steadily improving. Loyal prices in Croatia annually attract thousands of foreigners who want to buy real estate and move there to live permanently.

This peaceful country always attracts tourists from all over the world. The mild climate, the fantastic beauty of nature, the purest mountain air, and the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea make rest and life in Croatia one of the best. This country is considered one of the cleanest places in the world.

Over the past three years, Croatia has been recognized as one of the safest countries in the world. The crime rate is low, and one could argue that there is no crime. Due to all these factors, Croatia is one of the most peaceful countries 2026.

16. Germany

Despite its disastrous past (we all remember World War II), Germany is a peaceful country these days, according to GPI. Once you visit any city in Germany, you will definitely feel that sense of peace.

This is one of the most peaceful countries, maintaining diplomatic relations with almost 200 countries. It is a member of all-important multilateral organizations and informal international coordination groups, such as the Group of Seven (G7) and the Group of Twenty (G20).

Well-paid jobs, a clean environment, huge abilities for leisure and cultural options, and finally, a developed transport infrastructure; all these characteristics are suitable for most German cities. Moreover, Germany has a relatively low crime rate and well-developed investigative bodies with an international network. As a result, Germany is one of the safest countries in the world.

Millions of tourists visit Germany every year. Locals are very amicable and welcoming, the culture is uniquely diverse, and the cuisine is excellent. Consider visiting it at Christmas to discover many awesome Christmas markets and fairy-tale towns.

More: 7 Most Popular Christmas Markets in Germany

17. Norway

Many people don’t expect Norway to appear on the list of the most peaceful countries in the world. Perhaps this is because of Anders Behring Breivik, a mass murderer who hit the country’s pride hard.

Sure, it was an extraordinary incident, but according to the Global Peace Index, Norway is now one of the world’s most peaceful countries and a friendly and safe place to live in. Furthermore, Norway is the country with the highest level of human development in the globe. Plus, the government of Oslo always places peace at the forefront of the country’s priorities.

Norway has been holding the lead for several years now. Affordable housing, very low inflation (near zero), and the absence of unemployment provide a high standard of living here. In Norway, net income after all taxes and adjusted for family needs is $32,000 a year, a figure higher than the OECD. In Norway, all income from national wealth, particularly oil, is divided among the population, so even the smallest Norwegian has his own bank account, which is replenished monthly. All this creates a favorable social “background” for this peaceful country.

18. Belgium

Belgium is one of the best and most peaceful places to live in Europe and on Earth. It is a small but very prosperous and peaceful European state with a developed economy and a high standard of living. In addition, Belgium is a country with a stable democracy, minimal corruption, and fair courts.

Situated in the heart of Europe, this small country holds a special place. Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is home to the European Union and NATO. That is why it is an important international political center where many global problems are discussed and solved.

Belgium is also considered one of the most peaceful countries in 2026. It boasts medieval cities, beautiful town halls, majestic castles, and captivating natural beauty. Homicide and imprisonment rates are low in this country, even though Belgium did experience a crisis within its government over the 2008-2011 period.

The life of foreigners in Belgium is quite comfortable and attractive. This is because here, unlike many European powers, migrants are treated very tolerantly. Plus democratic prices, the opportunity to get a decent education, and a well-developed economy. In addition, the sphere of social assistance works very well here, and many segments of the population are provided with certain benefits.

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19. Bhutan

Bhutan is a unique country that seems to live in two parallel worlds. The culture of Bhutan has its roots in antiquity and has hardly changed over the centuries of complete isolation, but at the same time, many of the laws adopted in the state are so progressive that they are ahead of the laws of the most developed European countries. There is practically no corruption in Bhutan. And it is one of the safest countries in the world, with a meager crime rate.

According to the 2026 Global Peace Index, Bhutan is also among the 20 most peaceful countries on Earth. The report uses 22 indicators to measure internal peace, including the number of police per 100,000 people, levels of perceived criminality, the level of organized crime, and external peace indicators that include military expenditure as a percentage of gross domestic product and nuclear and heavy weapons capabilities.

So I think Bhutanese people are peace-loving and they are well cultured. Plus, Bhutan boasts plenty of spectacular attractions for everyone. So you do not want to leave this place of harmony and tranquility.

20. Sweden

Sweden is one of the most beautiful Scandinavian countries in the far north of Europe. Although Sweden is one of the biggest weapon exporters in Europe, the country has a low level of robberies. Sweden is considered one of the most prosperous European countries with a high standard of living and social standards, developed democratic institutions, beautiful nature, and happy people.

According to the Global Peace Index, Sweden is one of the world’s most peaceful countries, despite being among the world’s top arms exporters. Besides, Sweden has not been to war and has not participated in any combats for the whole 2 centuries.

A large, developed, stable economy with strong innovative potential opens up good prospects for starting your own business in Sweden and building a prosperous professional career. In the Doing Business agency annual ranking, the Kingdom of Sweden ranks 10th out of 190 countries worldwide.

Excellent ecology, cleanliness on the streets, excellent infrastructure, and high-quality medicine contribute to this peaceful country being called the best place to relax and move.

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So, it is a great advantage to live in a peaceful country, and if you are lucky enough to live in one of the 20 countries, you should be proud of it! What do you think of this list? What can you add to it? Please share your thoughts in the comments, and thanks for reading.