In a world fraught with conflict, militarisation and geopolitical tension, the quest for peace is more relevant than ever. The Global Peace Index 2025 highlights that although peace has declined globally by about 0.36 % and conflict levels have reached some of the highest since World War II, some countries still shine as exemplars of calm, stability and societal harmony.
Here are the top 10 most peaceful countries in 2025 — ranked from 10th to 1st — and what makes each stand out.
10. Finland
Finland rounds out the top ten with a GPI score of approximately 1.420. Known for its transparent governance, strong social safety-nets and high levels of trust in institutions, Finland enjoys very low violent crime and minimal involvement in international conflict. Its culture of openness, equality and community support underpins its peaceful status.
9. Slovenia
With a score around 1.409, Slovenia holds the ninth spot. Nestled between the Alps and the Adriatic, this European nation benefits from peace-oriented politics, low internal conflict, and a calm society. Its natural beauty and small-scale governance contribute to a sense of safe stability.
8. Denmark
Denmark ranks eighth, with a score near 1.393. The Danish model of high social cohesion, strong welfare systems and minimal militarisation supports its peaceful status. Copenhagen’s bike-friendly streets and relaxed lifestyle reflect the wider national emphasis on harmony and equality.
7. Portugal
Portugal sits seventh with a GPI score of about 1.371. The country has established a strong record of personal safety, moderate military spending, and inclusive societal policies. For residents and visitors alike, the sense of being in a calm, welcoming environment is real.
6. Singapore
The only Asian country in the top ten, Singapore takes sixth place with a score of ≈ 1.357. Singapore’s strict governance, low crime rate, and efficient public institutions contribute to an environment where public safety is a premium. It illustrates that peace can thrive even in densely-populated, urbanised contexts.
5. Switzerland
Switzerland is ranked fifth, scoring roughly 1.294. Its tradition of neutrality, excellent governance and very low levels of internal conflict have long made it a peace benchmark. Combine that with exceptional quality of life and you have a consistent peaceful state.
4. Austria
Austria also features a score of about 1.294 (tied with Switzerland) and takes fourth place. Known for political stability, high levels of human development and a well-managed social system, Austria offers residents and visitors alike a calm environment grounded in long-standing structures of order and welfare.
3. New Zealand
New Zealand earns the bronze spot with a GPI score of ≈ 1.282. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, New Zealand stands out for its low violent crime, strong rule of law, and inclusive social culture. As an island nation, its geographic isolation helps but it is the consistent societal integrity that keeps it peaceful.
2. Ireland
Ireland ranks second with a score close to 1.260. This country’s peaceful international relations, robust legal framework and vibrant yet secure civil society contribute to its high ranking. What’s more, despite a dynamic social and economic environment, Ireland maintains strong personal safety and stability.
1. Iceland
Topping the list is Iceland — the most peaceful country in the world, scoring about 1.095 in 2025. Iceland has been at the summit of the Peace Index for years. Its extraordinary characteristics include no standing army, extremely low violent crime rates, high communal trust and a socially-cohesive environment. The result: a national mood of calm and confidence rarely matched elsewhere.
Key Takeaways & Implications
Peace is multifaceted: The GPI measures peacefulness on three dimensions — societal safety and security, ongoing domestic and international conflict, and degree of militarisation.
Lower scores = better: On the GPI, a lower numerical score indicates a more peaceful society.
Global context matters: The fact that the top countries come mostly from Europe (plus New Zealand and Singapore) reveals how governance, stability, social welfare and geography interplay to produce peace.
Use for travel & learning: For readers of your geography & world-news blog, this list can be leveraged not just for travel inspiration, but for exploring how governance, social policy and human development shape national stability.
Conclusion
The 2025 Global Peace Index offers more than just rankings—it provides a blueprint for countries aspiring to peace. Whether through institutional integrity, social inclusion, or diplomacy, these top-ranked nations showcase values worth emulating.
By learning from their strengths—and acknowledging their challenges—the global community can strive for a more peaceful and stable world.