World’s 10 most peaceful countries in 2025. Where does India stand?
Iceland
Ranked number one globally on the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025. The country boasts near-zero crime, no standing army, high gender equality and trusted law enforcement, and has been leading the list since 2008 by a wide margin.
Ireland
The second place on the list has been secured by Ireland with political stability, low militarisation, and strong civil liberties. Some reasons for its popularity are reduced defence burden, high societal trust and peaceful governance.
New Zealand
New Zealand is not just the third most peaceful country globally but also the safest in the Asia-Pacific. It is noted for minimal internal conflict, stringent gun controls, peaceful social climate, robust legal system, and natural disaster readiness.
Austria
Constitutionally neutral with strong social services, low crime, and democratic consensus, Austria has secured the fourth position on the list. The high ‘positive peace’ attributes make it a top-five peaceful country.
Switzerland
Known for neutrality, social cohesion, low crime, and secure banking, Switzerland has secured the fifth position on the list from last year’s fourth. Minimal international conflict involvement and high human development levels work in its favour.
Singapore
The only Asian country in the top 10, Singapore, is ranked sixth globally. It is recognised for its strict law enforcement, political stability, low crime rates, and efficient governance.
Portugal
This country’s rise in the ranks is due to its social cohesion, low crime rates, and stable political environment, making it a safe and secure nation.
Denmark
Denmark is on the list due to its minimal violence, high equality, extensive welfare and transparent governance. Although there has been a slight increase in military spending, it remains comparatively very peaceful.
Slovenia
Low armed services, high social trust, a safe environment, and stable politics are some of the reasons Slovenia is on ninth position. It is often the overlooked ‘hidden gem’ in European peace rankings.
Finland
The tenth country on the list of most peaceful countries in the world is Finland, with its high societal safety, minimal internal conflict, strong legal systems, and general respect for human rights.
India
India is ranked at 115, a step up from the previous year. It has shown improvements in militarisation and relations with neighbours, but concerns remain over internal conflicts and social safety.