In a time where good news travels slowly and bad news has wings, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on the parts of the world where peace is there but flourishes. Every year the most peaceful countries in the world are ranked by the Global Peace Index (GPI), compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace, it is based on their levels of peace using 23 indicators across three domains: societal safety and security, ongoing domestic and international conflicty militarization.
Despite all this technology and science that has pushed humanity further. Peace is something that cannot be bought or researched but rather it is cultivated. Though like any plant that blooms, it is a fragile thing and if it does not have the exact circumstances to thrive, it will die.
Here’s a closer look at the most peaceful countries in the world in 2025, based on the latest GPI rankings and trends. The rankings fluctuate a tad but we should all strive our countries be on the list.
1. Iceland
- GPI Score: 1.112
- Region: Europe
For more than a decade, Iceland has maintained its position as the most peaceful country on Earth. It’s quite a feat considering it has no standing army to defend itself. With low crime rates, and strong social cohesion, Iceland remains a model of tranquility. That being said its geographic isolation with it being far from anywhere and anyone else also helps insulate it from international disputes.
2. Denmark
- GPI Score: 1.306
- Region: Europe
The first mainland European country on the list. Denmark combines a high standard of living with strong democratic institutions and minimal levels of crime and violence. Despite being a NATO member, its low military expenditure and proactive diplomacy earn it top marks for peace. Denmark also lays claim to Greenland which has recently been a point of contention with the United States though this has been going on for years.
3. Ireland
- GPI Score: 1.312
- Region: Europe
Once marked by Civil Wars, terrorism, and abusive foreign oversight, Ireland has transformed into one of the world’s most stable and peaceful nations. Its commitment to neutrality in global conflicts and its role in peacekeeping contribute to its high ranking. Although the island of Ireland is still not united one way or another through the republic of Ireland or northern Ireland, it is safe to say that a peaceful resolution will one day prevail.
4. New Zealand
- GPI Score: 1.313
- Region: Oceania
New Zealand is widely respected for its strong institutions, low levels of corruption, and harmonious society. Despite its small size, it plays an outsized role in global humanitarian and peacekeeping efforts. Despite being an island, it is one of the more powerful players when it comes to agriculture. Australia and New Zealand military are often times combined into ANZAC and have been in many conflicts together.
5. Austria
- GPI Score: 1.316
- Region: Europe
Austria continues to enjoy peace thanks to its historical neutrality, strong governance, and low crime rates despite its, y’know, extensive history of a part of Austria-Hungary. Its strategic position in central Europe makes it a stable hub in the region. Seems like a sleepy country but one with a major past and a rich history.
6. Singapore
- GPI Score: 1.332
- Region: Asia
While not the only Asian country that was colonized (that honor belongs to Thailand) it is the most peaceful country in Asia. Singapore achieves high marks for internal stability, efficient governance, and exceptionally low crime. Despite its relatively strong military, the country’s focus on diplomacy and order keeps it near the top of the list. Not only that but Singapore is one of the smallest countries in the world just outside the top ten. Not bad for the island nation.
7. Portugal
- GPI Score: 1.333
- Region: Europe
Once under dictatorship, Portugal has emerged as a paragon of peace and democracy. It boasts strong safety metrics, low crime rates, and an absence of internal or external conflicts. With only two major countries in the Iberian Peninsula, Spain and Portugal have good ties and can one day hopefully join one of the most peaceful countries.
8. Slovenia
- GPI Score: 1.334
- Region: Europe
Slovenia blends natural beauty with a calm and well-functioning society. It has low military involvement and ranks well for societal safety and political stability. It borders Austria so there is not really a surprise that they would share the same reputation. The area does have rich festivals though.
9. Switzerland
- GPI Score: 1.339
- Region: Europe
Famous for its neutrality and strong democratic institutions, Switzerland has long maintained a peaceful stance both domestically and internationally, even while maintaining a well-organized defense system. Known for Swiss bank accounts and being neutral for many great wars though not always. Swiss mercenaries were once renowned for their prowess and loyalty. The Swiss Guard protects the Pope to this day as an unwavering standing army.
10. Czech Republic
- GPI Score: 1.370
- Region: Europe
Closing out the top 10, the Czech Republic continues to uphold peace through sound governance, low conflict involvement, and societal cohesion. Once Czechoslovakia, the two countries split in what was known as the Velvet Divorce. One of the few times countries agreed to become their own independent nations without any hostile aggression from either.
Why Peace Matters
These rankings highlight that peace is not just the absence of war, but the presence of safety, political stability, and social trust. The most peaceful countries often have strong institutions, good education, low inequality, and a deep cultural value for dialogue and restraint.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Global Peace Index reveals a world where peace is still possible — but also fragile. European nations dominate the top spots, with a few notable entries from Asia and Oceania. These countries remind us that peace is something to be actively cultivated, defended, and celebrated.
Let’s hope their example inspires the rest of the world.
