The 5 most secure countries in the world for 2025

In a year marked by conflict, five countries continue to rank among the most peaceful in the world. Residents reveal how policies and culture shape everyday life and create a sense of calm.

In 2025, peace may seem like a rare good. Global conflicts are escalating, border security is enhanced and commercial tensions continue to increase. According to the World Peace (GPI) Index of 2025, the number of conflicts has reached the highest level from World War II. Three to break out this year. Many countries are “responding” to increased militarization.

However, despite gloomy statistics, some nations continue to prioritize peace. The World Peace Index, drawn up by the Institute of Economics and Peace, watches 23 factors, from external conflicts and military spending to security and protection measures, such as terrorism and homicides. Countries at the top of the index have remained stable for almost two decades, proving the security that peaceful policies can offer in the long run, a BBC said.

It presents five of the safest countries in the world, through testimonies of residents explaining how these policies shape their daily lives – and what their sense of security and tranquility offers.

Iceland

Having first place since 2008, Iceland remains the most peaceful country in the world, with top performance in all three areas: security and protection, ongoing conflicts and militarization. This year it even improved 2%, expanding the gap from the second country on the list.

For locals, this sense of security is an integral part of everyday life. “While harsh weather, especially in winter, may not always create a sense of security, the community does it.”said Inga Rós Antoníusdóttir, who was born in Iceland and is the Director -General of Intrepid Travel North Europe. “You can walk alone at night without worrying, you will see babies sleeping quietly in trolleys outside cafes and shops, while their parents enjoy their meal or do their jobs, and local police have no weapons.”

Inga attributes to the gender equality policies of the country, one of the most advanced in the world, the fact that women feel safe. “Equal opportunities and powerful social systems create a fairer and safe society for everyone”he said.

It is recommended that visitors experience this internal tranquility by participating in the daily habits of the locals. “Go for swimming in a geothermal pool and chat with strangers in the jacuzzi. Hike to a mountain, whether it’s an afternoon ascension to Mount Esja, just outside Reykjavik, or a long day hiking in the highlands »he said.

Ireland

Although marked by clashes during the 20th century, today’s Ireland continues to put peace on the top priority. It received particularly high ratings to reduce its militarization from year to year and was ranked as one of the countries with the least continuing internal and international conflicts. It was also ranked in the first 10 places in social security and protection, with low levels for crime and violence.

This feeling is common to all the inhabitants of the country. “The deep sense of community and friendliness makes you feel welcome and comfortable, whether you are in a small town or in a big city,” said Jack Fitzsimons, a Kildar resident and experienced experience in Kilkea Castle. He believes that strong social support systems and the emphasis on community well -being also reduce inequalities and tensions. “Here people take care of each other”, added. “It’s the kind of place where you can ask for help from an unknown and he will do everything to help you.”

At the global level, the country maintains military neutrality (which prevents it from being an official member of NATO, one of just four European states) and prefers diplomacy to resolve conflicts. Inside, the country prioritizes the preservation of its landscapes and cultural monuments and ensures that travelers always feel welcome, the BBC stresses. “It still strikes me how surprised the visitors are about how friendly the Irish are. For us, it’s just part of our culture as we have an innate sense of hospitality to visitors from abroad. “said Fitzsimons.

The relaxed nature of Ireland also creates a sense of calm. “You’re never far from a castle, a quiet ride in the woods or a traditional musical meeting in a warm pub”said Fitzsimons. “Life here rolls at a more relaxed pace and people continue to appreciate the discussion and storytelling. This human connection is truly special. “

New Zealand

This year New Zealand went up two seats and took third place, thanks to improvements in security and protection, as well as a reduction in terrorism impacts.

As an island country in the Pacific, the geographical location of New Zealand offers it natural protection against external conflicts, as well as its internal policies offer residents a sense of peace. “New Zealand’s laws on weapons are one of the most rigorous in the world, which contributes perfectly to a sense of security.”said Mischa Mannix-Opie, a customer experience director of the Greener Pastures relocation company, who has lived all her life in New Zealand. It notes that it is a place where children go to school, people leave their doors unlocked and drivers stop to help if a vehicle has spoiled on the roadside. “There is a general confidence in others and the systems around you, which creates a real sense of community in everyday life.”

In addition to the powerful social safety net and access to universal health care, New Zealanders appreciate their connection to nature, whether it is a beach walk, a hiking in the woods or a glass of wine under the stars, says Mannix-Opie. Community sense also means many festivals and events for all ages, with a focus on families -friendly environments. Although many visitors come to the landscape, it is often the sense of security and its belonging to the community that leaves a long -term positive impression.

“Apart from postcards -like landscapes, New Zealand is real deep. People are authentic, Maori’s culture is rich and always present, and the slowest pace of life can really change your perspective. “said Mannix-Opie. “A customer told me that, although New Zealand is beautiful, it is our people who are our power.”

Austria

Austria has fallen into one position this year and took fourth place, but it is still high in all areas. Like Ireland, Austria adopts a constitutionally guaranteed policy of neutrality, which forbids it from participating in military alliances such as NATO. This allows the country to focus its attention and resources on internal issues.

The first 10 countries in the world peace index 2025

1. Iceland
2. Ireland
3. New Zealand
4. Austria
5. Switzerland
6. Singapore
7. Portugal
8. Denmark
9. Slovenia
10. Finland

“Austria’s ten -year neutrality policy means that the country is investing in its citizens instead of conflicts.”said Armin Pfurtscheller, owner of Spa-Hotel Jagdhof. “A powerful social safety net, world -class health care and excellent education promote stability and trust”. He lives in Neustift in the Stubai Valley, where, he says, people wander along the Ruetz river at midnight, houses are unlocked and bicycles remain without chains outside the coffee. “Security is not just a statistics, it is the way you perceive life.”

Pfurtscheller also observes this sense of comfort for visitors coming to the valley, the BBC says. “After a few days, their shoulders relax, the stress disappears and sleep as when they were children.”he said. “They begin to observe the sound of the river, the way the light changes in the mountains and its simple joy to breathe deeply. This is the greatest sense of security that this place offers: the certainty that you are free here to be just yourself. “

Singapore

Maintaining sixth place, the Singapore city is the only Asian country in the top ten (Japan and Malaysia occupy 12th and 13th place, respectively). It ranks particularly high in terms of security and protection, even if it maintains one of the highest levels of military spending per resident in the world.

The absence of continuing conflicts and internal security create a strong sense of security for most residents. “I walk late at night and I’m not afraid. Walking toward my house is not stressful or worrying as in most major cities. “said resident Xinrun Han. “There is 100% comfort and mutual trust in the system, which creates a calm, well -cared environment.”

While Singapore’s conservative stance on the protection of LGBT+ restricts some freedoms, with marriage between people of the same sex remaining forbidden, social progress is visible through events such as the developing Pink Dot proud festival. Many have said that they have felt safer at this year’s rally compared to previous decades, as younger residents are trying to more expanded.

Han recommends that visitors enjoy the freedoms that accompany security, such as walking along the river at 02:00, to eat something from a nightclub on the road or visiting the park after dusk. “Everything looks very free, whether you’re a resident or just a visitor.”