It’s no secret that some countries are more peaceful than others. People living in certain countries, such as European countries, tend to be happier than those in other continents. Factors like geographical locations, international conflicts, and laws contribute to creating these most peaceful countries of the world.
But what exactly makes a country peaceful? The Global Peace Index (GPI) measures peacefulness according to the country’s absence of violence. That said, a country is peaceful by being non-violent, having equal rights, and having a trustworthy justice system. Besides, the peacefulness of a nation also depends on its international relationships with other countries. And the less military presence a country has, the more peaceful it is.
The quality of life residents have is important too. A high-quality education, an extensive job market, and free healthcare are some of the things the most peaceful countries have in common. The better opportunities citizens have, the happier they are. And as a result, they live their lives peacefully. So, if you’re wondering which is the most peaceful country in Europe or which country is most peaceful in the world, we have you covered. Let’s find out the 11 most peaceful countries of the world!
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Singapore
11
Singapore, the most peaceful country in Asia, offers one of the highest quality of life in the world. The nation has low crime rates as well as reliable law enforcement. So, if you’ve always wanted to visit the Asian continent, Singapore is your best option. Needless to say, staying at the best hotels in Singapore is like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Singapore is full of parks, forests, and nature reserves that provide a peaceful ambient. In this country, you can also enjoy fun and safe nightlife. Perfect for those traveling alone!
The Asian country is also a great place to move into and raise a family. It has one of the best healthcare systems and offers world-class education. Even better, Singapore has a very user-friendly commuting system. From well-designed roads to accessible transportation fees, traveling across the country while checking your things-to-do-in-Singapore list here is super easy. All of these aspects make Singapore one of the most peaceful countries of the world.
Canada
10
Next on the list is Canada. This North American nation has recently become one of the most peaceful countries of the world. Canadian people are friendly and heartwarming. But besides having amicable locals, the country is also famous for adopting non-violent measures in conflict resolution. They also have a reliable police force. And because of this, Canada’s crime rates decrease more each year.
Canada is also known for its diversity and inclusion. It’s a country full of indigenous people that ensures equal rights for everyone, no matter their cultural backgrounds. In fact, Canadians have a positive attitude towards immigrants. Whether you want to visit or move into Canada, you’ll have a warm experience there. As a result, it’s also one of the 11 Most Visited Countries in the world.
As the most peaceful country in North America, Canada owes its success to gun laws. Obtaining a firearm in the country is extremely difficult. Therefore, its citizens have a more peaceful approach when it comes to resolving issues.
Czech Republic
9
If you’re looking for the most peaceful countries of the world to study abroad in, Czech Republic is your best option. This small country located in Eastern Europe has one of the safest environments for international students.
It’s a great country to visit too. The Czech Republic has one of the most beautiful medieval cities in the world, Prague. And it’s also home to 14 UNESCO world heritage sites. Enjoy a safe vacation visiting each one of them! While you’re here, we recommend staying at one of the best hotels in Prague.
Lastly, for those considering moving into the Czech Republic, there are some things you should know. First, it’s a country with an inexpensive yet effective health insurance system. On top of that, it has a growing job market requiring professionals in all areas. Regardless of your travel intentions, the Czech Republic is a great option!
Ireland
8
Also known as the Emerald Isle, Ireland is a lovely island offering a peaceful ambient. Ireland also has one of the prettiest landscapes too. Cities like Dublin and Cork, some of Ireland’s most beautiful places, have everything you need for a high quality of life.
But what makes Ireland one of the most peaceful countries of the world? First of all, guns are illegal in the country. Unless you have a farm, there’s no way a citizen can legally own a firearm. Therefore, there’s an almost non-existent crime rate and less police presence. Secondly, public transportation is very cheap. Whether renting a car or using a city bus, transportation fees won’t be an issue.
However, what we love the most about Ireland is its laid-back lifestyle. Irish people love to gather together at pubs and parks. Besides that, full-time workers receive, by law, 20 days of annual leave. Without a doubt, it’s one of the most peaceful countries in world history to live in and visit. Stop by at one of the best hotels in Dublin when you’re here!
Switzerland
7
Switzerland is all about peace and neutrality. Mostly known for its Swiss neutrality principle, the country is not only peaceful but conflict-free. They avoid conflict so much that they haven’t participated in a foreign war since 1815. So, if you’ve ever wondered which country is most peaceful in the world and is also conflict-free, Switzerland is the answer.
Despite having a diverse society, Switzerland maintains its peaceful ambient among all ethnic groups. You might wonder, how do they achieve it? Simple: geographical division. The country has both land and political boundaries that divide each group. Whether it’s another language or religion, Switzerland respects each and every one of them. So, if you’re considering immigrating there, let this encourage you to do it. If you’re just visiting, do take a look at our list of best hotels in Zurich.
Swiss people also have a very high quality of life, which contributes to the peacefulness of the country. Switzerland is above average when it comes to housing, healthcare, and safety. It even has a lower tax rate!
Austria
6
Have you ever wondered which is the most peaceful country in Western Europe? If yes, we got the answer: Austria. For the past couple of years, Austria has been on the list of the most peaceful countries of the world. This country maintains high levels of peace and happiness among its citizens. And despite having some protests since 2017, Austria’s peaceful ambient remains unchanged.
Austria is one of the best places to live in Europe. Featuring a convenient location in Western Europe, Austria has everything to live an abundant, happy life. It has low crime rates, cheap housing, and an excellent public transportation system. Plus, it’s also nearby several countries such as Italy, Germany, and the Czech Republic, which is the most peaceful country in Eastern Europe.
Austria is also a great place to visit and vacation. You can visit beautiful historical cities, such as Vienna and Salzburg. Or enjoy a wide variety of winter sports in Innsbruck – find the best hotels in Innsbruck here. Whether you want to come for a few days or years, Austria is a safe, peaceful place to be.
Slovenia
5
Slovenia has been considered a peaceful country for several years now. The country boasts a stable economy, excellent healthcare, and beautiful landscapes. From mountains and forests to lakes and the sea, Slovenia has the best landscape. This country is so great that each year more than 18,000 people move there. Just in 2020, 36,110 foreign citizens moved into the country! Without a doubt, it’s part of the most peaceful countries in world history.
On top of that, students also love the country’s peacefulness. Besides having world-class education, it also offers affordable housing and tuition fees. So, if you’re considering studying abroad, Slovenia is one of your best options.
This country’s location contributes to its peace-loving environment too. Its convenient position in Southern Europe gives its citizens quick and easy access to nearby countries. However, what makes Slovenia one of the most peaceful countries of the world is its safety. In fact, it’s known as one of the safest countries to live in the world. So, if you ever wanted to know which country is most peaceful in the world and is also the safest, Slovenia is your answer. Perhaps it’s time to plan your visit and book your hotel in Ljubljana.
Portugal
4
Beautiful Portugal is not only a peaceful country but one of the safest. In fact, it’s considered the safest country in the Schengen Area. Portugal is a very non-violent country with a low militarization level and an overall reliable government. Those wondering which country is most peaceful in the world while also being one of the safest should come to Portugal.
This country is also known as one of the most visited countries in the world. Tourists love the safety it offers when vacationing, especially those who travel alone. Its peaceful ambient also makes it the perfect travel destination for families and newlyweds. As if that weren’t enough, Portuguese people have a friendly attitude towards immigrants. Therefore, Portugal receives the title of one of the most peaceful countries in world tourism.
However, Portugal has not always been this peaceful. This is the result of the government’s necessary steps towards the country’s benefit over the past few years. As a result, Portugal has reduced crime statistics and became one of the most peaceful countries of the world.
Denmark
3
For those wondering which country is most peaceful in the world for travelers, Denmark is the answer. As you’d expect, the nation has very low violence and crime rates compared to other European countries. However, what makes it stand out is his almost non-existent risk for natural disasters. You can visit the country at any time of the year!
Besides being one of the most peaceful countries of the world, it’s also one of the safest. From abroad students to refugees, thousands of people immigrate each year to Denmark. Therefore, the country is highly diverse and offers opportunities for everyone.
The country’s also known for its excellent work-life balance. The Danish lifestyle is one of the happiest on earth. Danish people can enjoy everything without compromising their future. The country offers free, high-quality education for almost everyone and has an extensive job market. Without a doubt, Denmark is a peace-loving country.
New Zealand
2
Also known as one of the most unrestricted places globally, New Zealand is truly an excellent nation. New Zealand’s peacefulness is mainly due to the country’s democracy and respect for human rights. On top of that, it’s known as one of the best countries regarding equal gender pay. Therefore, its citizens tend to be more satisfied and happier. So, if you want to know which is the most peaceful country when it comes to equality, New Zealand is your best option.
The country’s location also contributes to its peaceful ambient and lifestyle. New Zealand doesn’t border any country, which results in less international conflict. In other words, they can avoid war as much as they want to.
New Zealand’s climate is something its citizens love too. During the summertime, the temperature goes hot but is still bearable. And during winter, it’s cold enough but not freezing. Whether you’re planning to visit short or long term, this peaceful country is a great choice.
Iceland
1
Ranking number one on this list, Iceland is the happiest and most peaceful country you can visit. The main reason Iceland is so peaceful is because of its gun laws. As a matter of fact, police forces don’t carry any firearms. Why? They simply don’t need it. Higher entities like the Icelandic SWAT do own them, though. Also, no one needs a bodyguard, not even the president or any other government personnel. Iceland is part of the most peaceful countries in world affairs as they’ve never participated in wars or conflicts.
More factors contribute to its peacefulness. First of all, Iceland’s landscape is beautiful, and its air quality is one of the best on earth. On top of that, the country is free of mosquitoes, snakes, bugs, and any type of poisonous animal. Therefore, tourists can walk freely throughout Iceland’s mountains, forests, and highlands. Go check out our list of the best hotels in Reykjavik, which offer fantastic views of these natural beauties.
Iceland is also known for equality. The country offers equal pay for everyone. Besides, same-sex marriage is legal, as well as same-sex adoption. And you can practice any religion you want. In Iceland, everyone wins, and as a result, it’s the most peaceful country in the world.
Things you should know about these most peaceful countries of the world
- According to the Global Peace Index (GPI), global peacefulness has decreased due to the global pandemic.
- Since the GPI launched 13 years ago, Iceland has been the most peaceful country continuously every year.
- Certain countries have been part of the top ten most peaceful countries for several years now. Some of them are Austria, Iceland, and Slovenia.
- If you like this list, you might want to check our list of the safest cities in the world.
