September 2025 The Global Peace Index 2025 has been released, ranking 163 nations according to their levels of peace and stability. The report, compiled annually by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), assesses countries based on indicators of safety, security, conflict and militarisation.
The World’s Most Peaceful Countries (2025)
This year’s index once again crowned Iceland as the most peaceful country in the world, continuing its long streak at the top of the rankings. It has consistently held this position since the index was first introduced in 2007.
The top five most peaceful countries in 2025 are:
- Iceland
- Ireland
- New Zealand
- Austria
- Switzerland
The World’s Least Peaceful Countries (2025)
At the other end of the spectrum, countries experiencing high levels of conflict and instability were ranked lowest.
The bottom five least peaceful countries in 2025 are:
- Russia (ranked lowest for the first time since the index began)
- Ukraine
- Sudan
- Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
- Yemen
Notable Rankings
- Canada: 14th
- United Kingdom: 30th
- China: 98th
- South Africa: 124th
- United States: 128th (four places below South Africa)
- North Korea: 149th
Why the Index Matters
The Global Peace Index measures peace using 23 indicators, grouped into three key areas:
- Ongoing domestic and international conflict
- Societal safety and security
- Militarisation
The 2025 results show a mixed global picture: while some regions are becoming more stable, ongoing wars and geopolitical tensions have pushed other nations lower on the list.
Conclusion
The Global Peace Index 2025 highlights how unevenly peace is distributed across the world. While nations such as Iceland, Ireland and New Zealand continue to lead with stability and safety, others face significant challenges due to conflict and insecurity.
Where does your country rank?
Source / Accreditation
- Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) – Global Peace Index 2025 (Vision of Humanity)
