World’s 10 Most Peaceful Countries

Achieving peace is something that many countries strive for, but few succeed. War, terrorism and violence are rampant in the world today and it can be disheartening to see so much hatred and conflict around us.

But there are still places in the world where peace is the norm and harmony prevails. In this article, we reveal which countries will be the most peaceful in the world in 2023, based on the Global Peace Index. We also look at how the 10 most peaceful countries have achieved a culture of non-violence and neutrality, and why the rest of the world should follow their example.

Japan

Almost 80 years after the end of the brutal war between the US and Japan, Japan has never looked back. Despite once being under totalitarian and fascist rule, the Japanese people have always been committed to peace and non-violent conflict resolution.

In recent years, this peaceful country has been a champion of peace and security around the world. It has worked tirelessly to resolve international disputes through diplomacy and mediation and has actively participated in UN peacekeeping missions.

Japan is a major contributor to the UN peacekeeping budget and regularly provides financial support to other countries to promote world peace.

Singapore

The Lion City remains at the top of the global peace index. For the fifth consecutive year, it has been ranked among the 10 most peaceful countries in the world. This Asian island nation has a long tradition of peace within its borders and in its international relations.

Singapore is known for its strict laws and effective governance, which help keep crime rates low, maintain order and guarantee social security. Economy and peace go hand in hand. A strong economy and high living standards and income levels contribute to a sense of overall peace and stability.

Singapore is an ethnically diverse country where Chinese, Malay, Indian and other communities live peacefully side by side. Human rights are central to Singaporean politics and the overall quality of life ensures that Singapore remains the most peaceful country in South Asia. It is also home to a large number of foreign nationals who are welcomed by the locals.

The country has a highly effective military but remains committed to the peaceful settlement of disputes wherever possible. It is an active participant in international organisations such as the UN and works hard to promote diplomacy and cooperation worldwide.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is one of the most peaceful countries in the world, with little crime and a strong sense of security. It is a peaceful nation with a long history of peaceful coexistence with its neighbors, and its people are known for their tolerance and hospitality. The Czechs are also very proud of their culture and heritage and take great care to preserve it.

With millions of foreign visitors coming to cities like Prague each year, the Czech government works hard to keep social safety and security high.

Slovenia

Slovenia has been ranked among the world’s most peaceful countries six times in the past decade. The country has a long history of tolerance and respect for different cultures and religions, which is reflected in today’s population.

The majority of Slovenes are Catholic, with a small number of Orthodox Christians and Muslims. There is also a significant Jewish community in the capital, Ljubljana. Slovenia has a high degree of religious freedom and all religious groups can practice their faith without discrimination. It would be extremely unfortunate if internal disputes over religious beliefs arose.

It is not only one of the most peaceful countries in the world, but also one of the most privileged in terms of the lowest number of displaced persons. The government is stable and democracy is strong. In recent years, Slovenia has worked hard to develop its economy, making it even more peaceful and prosperous.

Portugal

Portugal should be at the top of the list if you are looking for a peaceful place to feel at home. This European country has long ranked as one of the most peaceful countries in the world, thanks to its long history of neutrality, stable government and harmony among its citizens. The leaders of the Portuguese government put the well-being of their citizens at the top of their political agenda.

Portugal is also a member of a number of international organizations that promote peace, such as the UN and the Council of Europe.

As one of the most peaceful societies, it offers foreigners an easy path to residency through visa programs such as Portugal’s D7 visa program. With an income of 760 euros ($805) per month, you can already obtain legal residency in Portugal. The D7 visa is often called the digital nomad visa because it is easy to obtain for telecommuters.

It is a peaceful country that is heavily involved in reducing international conflict and strongly promotes world peace. This prompts many American expats to move to Portugal to start a new life and escape the growing inequality and uncertainty at home.

For those looking to invest in property abroad, the Portuguese housing market offers a lot of value for money. Average house prices in Portugal are significantly lower than in the United States and similar places in Western European countries such as France, Ireland and the United Kingdom.

Austria

The Austrian Alpine Republic is one of Europe’s oldest nations and has a long history of neutrality. In modern times, Austria has been at the forefront of European integration and was one of the first signatories to the Maastricht Treaty.

Today Austria is considered one of the most peaceful countries in the world, as political neutrality has been part of the Austrian constitution for almost 70 years. Austria is also strongly committed to global peace and international cooperation. It is a member of the United Nations and has participated in several UN peacekeeping missions.

In addition to its active role in international peacekeeping, Austria provides substantial financial support to various peace-promoting organisations, such as the International Peace Bureau and the Geneva Centre for Security Policy.

Austria has a strict citizenship policy to ensure that people who want the best for the country are granted citizenship. The Austrian citizenship by investment scheme allows foreigners to become Austrian citizens by investing capital, but they must first undergo a rigorous selection process, which is not guaranteed, and make a significant investment of at least €3 million ($3.19 million) in the country’s economy. Only then can they be granted citizenship.

Although Austrian citizenship is out of reach for many, this article lists the easiest countries to obtain a second citizenship.

Denmark

With a murder rate of just 1 per 100 000 inhabitants in 2020, Denmark is undoubtedly one of the most peaceful countries in the world. The country has a strong commitment to political and social stability and, as a member of the European Union and NATO, participates in a number of international peacekeeping missions.

In addition to its high ranking among peaceful nations, Denmark is also ranked second in the World Happiness Report 2022. Despite high income taxes, Danish citizens have very little deprivation and enjoy a high standard of living, with well-funded public services and benefits available to all.

Ireland

Ireland is a small island state off the coast of Western Europe. It is known for its lush green landscapes, friendly people and rich culture. Recent violent conflict during the Troubles almost brought the country to its knees, but since the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, Ireland has been a peaceful country.

Over the past decade it has ranked high in the world’s peaceful nations with very few violent protests, minimal civil unrest and no need for gunmen on the streets.

For investors and entrepreneurs, Ireland is one of the best places to set up a business, with low corporate taxes, access to the EU’s trading market and a robust and well-regulated business environment.

New Zealand

The isolated island state of New Zealand is considered one of the most peaceful countries in the world. New Zealand has one of the lowest crime rates of any country and a high standard of living. New Zealand also has some of the most beautiful and peaceful landscapes in the world.

Its geographical location in the most peaceful region and the absence of external threats have contributed to a more open and tolerant society. This is evidenced by the fact that the country is not only the second most peaceful country in the world, but also scores high on the 2022 Social Progress Index, particularly in terms of individual rights. New Zealand has a number of programmes to preserve indigenous culture.

Iceland

It almost goes without saying that Iceland is ranked as the most peaceful place in the world. The degree of peace in Iceland is clearly unparalleled: the country has been ranked first for 11 consecutive years.

Being the most peaceful country in the world means that Iceland exhibits some exemplary aspects in terms of world peace. First, it has a very small population – barely a fifth the size of Manhattan. As a result, the whole country has a village mentality and crime is easily exposed.

Iceland also has a very conflict-free culture – the only country on the list without an army, air force or navy. Military spending goes only to neutral forces stationed abroad on peacekeeping missions. It is also one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries, where being a member of the LGBTQ community is not frowned upon, but rather celebrated.