The Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025, released by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), ranks 163 countries based on their level of peacefulness. This report, published annually since 2007, uses 23 indicators like safety, conflict, and militarization to measure how peaceful a country is. In 2025, the world saw a slight decline in peacefulness, with a 0.36% drop compared to last year. Let’s dive into the key findings, including India’s ranking, the safest countries, and the least peaceful nations.
India’s Ranking in Global Peace Index 2025
India ranks 115th out of 163 countries in the Global Peace Index 2025, with a score of 2.229. This is an improvement from its 116th position in 2024, showing a 0.58% increase in peacefulness. Over the years, India has steadily climbed the ranks: it was 126th in 2023, 139th in 2020, and 141st in 2019. This progress reflects improvements in areas like crime perception, political stability, and reduced terrorist impact. However, challenges like internal unrest and cross-border tensions remain. Compared to its neighbors, India ranks ahead of Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, but South Asia is still the second least peaceful region globally.
Top 10 Most Peaceful Countries in 2025
The Global Peace Index 2025 highlights the world’s most peaceful countries, which enjoy low crime rates, stable politics, and minimal conflict. Here are the top 10 most peaceful countries:
- Iceland – Ranked 1st for the 18th year in a row, Iceland is known for its low crime rates, unarmed police, and strong community bonds.
- Ireland – With minimal internal conflicts and stable international relations, Ireland secures the 2nd spot.
- New Zealand – Known for its peaceful environment and low crime, it ranks 3rd.
- Austria – A stable political climate and low violence make Austria a top peaceful nation.
- Switzerland – High safety and minimal militarization place Switzerland in the top 5.
- Portugal – Known for low crime and peaceful international relations.
- Denmark – Strong social security and low conflict levels contribute to its ranking.
- Slovenia – A peaceful nation with minimal internal and external conflicts.
- Malaysia – Improved safety and reduced violence help Malaysia rank high.
- Canada – Known for its stable governance and low crime rates.
These countries score well due to their focus on safety, strong governance, and peaceful societies.
The Least Peaceful Countries in 2025
The Global Peace Index 2025 also lists the least peaceful countries, where conflicts, instability, and militarization are high. The 10 least peaceful countries are:
- Russia – Ranked 163rd, the least peaceful due to ongoing conflicts, especially with Ukraine.
- Ukraine – War and geopolitical tensions place Ukraine at 162nd.
- Sudan – Civil wars and instability contribute to its low ranking.
- Democratic Republic of the Congo – Ongoing conflicts and violence keep it near the bottom.
- Yemen – War and humanitarian crises make Yemen highly unpeaceful.
- Afghanistan – Persistent conflict and instability rank it low.
- Syria – Years of civil war continue to impact its peace score.
- South Sudan – Political instability and violence place it among the least peaceful.
- Israel – Regional tensions and conflicts affect its ranking.
- Mali – Internal conflicts and terrorism contribute to its low score.
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region remains the least peaceful for the 10th year, with four of these countries in the bottom 10.
Why Does India’s Ranking Matter?
India’s improved ranking to 115th in 2025 is a positive sign, but it still faces challenges. The country has made progress in reducing crime perception and improving political stability. However, issues like internal unrest, cross-border tensions, and militarization need attention. The GPI report emphasizes Positive Peace, which includes strong institutions, good governance, and social harmony, as key to long-term stability. For India, focusing on these areas can help improve its ranking further and create a safer environment for its people.
Global Peace Trends in 2025
The Global Peace Index 2025 shows a worrying trend: global peacefulness has declined for the 10th year in a row. Key findings include:
- 59 active state-based conflicts in 2024, the highest since World War II.
- 152,000 conflict-related deaths recorded in 2024, showing a rise in violence.
- A 5.4% decline in global peace since 2008, with a growing gap between the most and least peaceful countries.
- 74 countries improved their peace scores, including India, but 100 countries have seen declines over the past decade.
Rising geopolitical tensions, asymmetric warfare, and economic challenges in fragile nations are driving this decline. The report calls for global cooperation to address these issues.
How to Use This Information
For readers interested in global rankings or travel safety, the Global Peace Index 2025 offers valuable insights. If you’re planning to travel or study abroad, choosing a peaceful country like Iceland or Ireland can ensure a safer experience. For policymakers and students, understanding India’s ranking and challenges can guide efforts to improve governance, safety, and international relations. Check the full report at visionofhumanity.org for detailed data.
Conclusion
The Global Peace Index 2025 reveals a world facing growing challenges, with Iceland leading as the most peaceful country and Russia at the bottom. India’s climb to 115th shows progress, but there’s room for improvement. By focusing on safety, stability, and cooperation, India and other nations can work toward a more peaceful future. Stay informed about global trends and rankings to make better decisions for travel, studies, or policy advocacy.
Source: Institute for Economics and Peace, Global Peace Index 2025