Global Peace Index (GPI) 2026: Top 10 Safest and Most Peaceful Countries in the World, India Ranked 127th

Recently, the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2026 released by the Institute for Economics and Peace once again declared Iceland as the safest and most peaceful country in the world. This marks the 19th consecutive year that Iceland has secured the top position in this prestigious index.

The 2026 edition of the Global Peace Index is particularly significant as it represents the 20th edition of the index and evaluates 163 countries, covering approximately 99.7% of the world's population.

According to the report, despite rising geopolitical tensions, wars, and internal conflicts, several countries have maintained high standards of peace, security, and social stability.

What is the Global Peace Index (GPI) ?

The Global Peace Index is an annual report that measures the peacefulness of countries around the world. The index ranks nations based on 23 indicators.

These indicators are grouped into three major categories:

1. Societal Safety and Security

• Crime rate
• Homicide rate
• Impact of terrorism
• Public perception of safety

2. Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict

• Internal conflicts
• External conflicts
• Conflict-related deaths

3. Militarization

• Military expenditure
• Size of armed forces
• Arms imports and exports

A lower GPI score indicates a higher level of peace and security.

Key Highlights of Global Peace Index 2026

• Global peace has deteriorated for the 12th consecutive year.
• The peace situation worsened in 99 countries compared to the previous year.
• There are currently 61 active state-based conflicts worldwide, the highest level since World War II.
• Iceland remains the most peaceful country for the 19th consecutive year.
• Russia is ranked as the least peaceful country in the world.
• Among all regions, South Asia recorded the largest decline in peace.

Analysis of the Top 5 Safest Countries

1. Iceland

• Iceland has remained the world's most peaceful country since 2008. The country has no standing army, an extremely low crime rate, and strong democratic institutions.

Key Features

• No standing army
• Extremely low crime rate
• High social trust
• Political stability
• Strong democratic governance

2. New Zealand

• New Zealand secured the second position in 2026. It is known for transparent governance, low corruption, and low levels of violent crime.

Key Strengths

• Strong democracy
• Low corruption
• Peaceful foreign policy
• Social harmony

3. Switzerland

• Switzerland is consistently ranked among the safest countries due to its long-standing policy of neutrality.

Key Features

• Political neutrality
• Strong judicial system
• High standard of living
• Low crime rate

4. Slovenia

• Slovenia continues to be one of the most peaceful countries in Europe. Political stability and robust social welfare policies contribute significantly to its ranking.

Key Features

• Low crime rate
• Effective governance
• Strong social security system
• Economic stability

5. Ireland

• Ireland has maintained its position among the top five due to effective governance, low militarization, and economic stability.

Key Features

• Low military expenditure
• Political stability
• Strong economy
• Safe social environment

How Does the GPI Measure Safety ?

• The Global Peace Index evaluates a country's safety and peacefulness through multiple indicators.

Major Indicators

• Homicide rate
• Violent crime
• Political instability
• Impact of terrorism
• Military expenditure
• Access to weapons
• Prison population
• Conflict-related deaths

India's Position in the Global Peace Index 2026

India ranked 127th out of 163 countries in the Global Peace Index 2026, with an overall score of 2.409.

India's ranking declined by three places compared to the previous year.

Key Factors Affecting India's Ranking

• Internal security challenges
• Regional tensions in South Asia
• Communal and ethnic conflicts
• Border security concerns
• Growing geopolitical instability in neighboring regions

However, India remains one of the world's fastest-growing major economies, and efforts are ongoing to strengthen internal security and social stability.

Note : Bhutan remains the most peaceful country in South Asia.

South Asia Rankings in GPI 2026

Top 10 Safest and Most Peaceful Countries in 2026