The Safest Countries In The World In 2023

Many people are currently looking to relocate to safer and more stable destinations. Safety and security are important when you are choosing a country to move abroad. Safety has taken on special meaning in the age of the war in Ukraine and COVID-19 pandemic. Here, you will find the safest countries in the world in 2023.

We have analysed the new edition of the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2022, which ranks 163 independent states and territories according to their level of peacefulness. It is the world’s leading measure of global peacefulness, presenting the most comprehensive data-driven analysis to-date on trends in peace, its economic value, and how to develop peaceful societies. From countries with the lowest crime rates to thriving business cultures, these are the safest countries in the world in 2023. To feel more secure, don’t forget about international health insurance when you decide to move abroad.

What are the safest countries in the world in 2023?

We’ve ranked countries by metrics such personal, health, infrastructure and environmental safety, as well as digital security. Our report presents the most comprehensive data-driven analysis to-date on trends in peace, its economic value, and how to develop peaceful societies and it is based on the Global Safety Index 2022. However, how safe you feel in a particular country and which is the safest country depends on who you ask (and can also depend on who you are). Some destinations are much safer for men than for women, for example. And there are few, if any, protections for LGBTQ rights in some countries.

Despite the war in Ukraine on Europe’s doorstep, European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) countries still dominate the Global Peace Index. In fact, the safest countries in the world in 2023 include eight countries at the very top, which are either part of the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA).

What makes a country safe in 2023?

Our index looks at factors including the freedom to live, move about and work safely, and overall quality of life, including education, environmental and digital security, and healthcare. COVID-19 management and restrictions still vary, so you need to do your own research at the time you’re planning to move.

Safety is – or should be – a key concern for expats. But how exactly can you judge whether a country is safe and secure? It’s not just about crime rates.

The Global Peace Index covers 163 countries comprising 99.7% of the world’s population, using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators from highly respected sources, and measures the state of peace across three domains:

1. the level of societal Safety and Security
2. the extent of Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict
3. and the degree of Militarisation.

In addition to discussing the findings from the 2022 GPI, the report includes an analysis of the military conflict in Ukraine. It covers likely increases in military spending, new and emerging uses of technology in the war, its impact on food prices and global shipping routes. The report also contains a deeper analysis on violent demonstrations around the world.

Is the word becoming more or less safe?

This year’s results found that the average level of global peacefulness deteriorated by 0.3%. Iceland remains the most peaceful country in the world, a position it has held since 2008. It is joined at the top of the index by New Zealand, Ireland, Denmark and Austria.

Afghanistan is the least peaceful country in the world for the fifth consecutive year, followed by Yemen, Syria, Russia and South Sudan. All of these countries have been among the ten least peaceful countries for the last three years.

Unsurprisingly, two of the five countries with the largest deteriorations in peacefulness were Russia and Ukraine, they were joined by Guinea, Burkina Faso and Haiti. All of these deteriorations were due to ongoing conflict.

Europe is the most peaceful region in the world, where seven of the ten countries most peaceful countries are located. Five of the nine regions in the world became more peaceful over the past year.

The largest improvements occurred in South Asia and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. South Asia’s result was driven by a substantial improvement in the Ongoing Conflict domain, as many countries experienced reductions in the number of deaths from internal conflicts. MENA recorded improvements across all three GPI domains, with the region’s result being driven by improvements in military expenditure, deaths from internal conflict, terrorism impact and nuclear and heavy weapons.

Predictably, the largest regional deterioration in peacefulness was Russia and Eurasia, followed by North America. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine led to a large rise in the number of conflict deaths, as well as sharp deteriorations in indicators such as refugees and IDPs, political instability and political terror. The conflict in Ukraine had immediate repercussions outside the Russia and Eurasia region, especially for the neighbouring countries relations indicator, which recorded a sharp deterioration.

What country has the lowest crime rate in the world?

Qatar has the lowest crime rate in the world, followed by the UAE, according to Numbeo statistics. According to the Global Peace Index, Iceland is the safest country in the world for the 14th year in a row. Iceland is a Nordic nation with a relatively small population of 340,000.

Venezuala has the highest crime rate.

The top ten safest countries in the world in 2023

A majority of the top 25 safest countries are European countries. Most notable are the Nordic countries of Europe. Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland are not only among Europe’s safest countries, they are among the top 25 safest countries anywhere on Earth. As such, this region is considered the safest in the world. These five Nordic countries are all in the top 10 happiest countries in the world as well. The second-most-common region in the top 25 is Asia. Both regions have a homicide rate of about 3 per 100,000 inhabitants.

1/ Iceland is the safest country in the world

In recent years, Iceland has become an attractive option for expats. It has rich culture, amazing natural beauty and is surprisingly accessible and comfortable. Pollution is low, life expectancy is high, and there is very little crime. The police are unarmed. The legal system prioritises rehabilitation over punishment, and you may well see babies left in prams outside restaurants while their parents enjoy a quiet meal.

Public health

Taxes fund Iceland’s universal healthcare system. The country has no private hospitals, although doctors can see patients privately.

Infrastructure

With a sophisticated telecoms network and good airport connections, Iceland ranks top for basic infrastructure in the IMD World Competitiveness Report. Some of Iceland’s rural roads have poor surfaces and driving can be tricky, especially when the weather is bad. Most people have cars and public transport is quite basic.

Personal safety

Iceland has a very low level of crime, especially violent crime, making it one of the safest countries in the world.

Digital security

Iceland has a good track record of dealing with cyber security issues, setting up a government task force back in 2013 to lay a foundation for strong, reliable systems.

Environmental security

Air pollution in Iceland is much lower than the OECD average and nearly all homes have energy from renewable sources. The country ranks at the top for environmental quality, according to the OECD’s Better Life Index.

2/ New Zealand is one of the safest countries in the world

From stunning landscapes, made even more famous by the Lord of the Rings, to sophisticated cities and a laid-back approach to life, New Zealand has long been a target for those wishing to relocate abroad. A big draw for lovers of the outdoors, it also offers world-class culture in its cities, and has a safety record which relies on strong public healthcare and education, and a surprising lack of the dangerous flora and fauna found in neighbouring Australia.

Public health

New Zealand benefits from excellent public and private healthcare. Residents receive free or subsidised care, while the private sector, accessed through private medical insurance offers faster care and supports non-residents. There are three emergency medical care services.

Infrastructure

New Zealand is remote and mountainous, but public transport is well established, including bus, rail and inter-island ferry services. The distances between destinations mean most New Zealanders travel by car and the roads are well maintained. The highest number of accidents occur during extreme sports activities.

Personal safety

The crime rate in New Zealand is lower than in many other countries, with fewer incidents of violence and theft. Walking or cycling is quite safe, but as usual, it’s important to be careful, especially at night. The New Zealand police are considered friendly and trustworthy.

Digital security

New Zealand ranks well globally in terms of average download speeds, well ahead of Australia. The Government participates in discussions on cyber security with other countries at the United Nations, in regional forums and at multi-stakeholder forums like the Internet Governance Forum. New Zealand is also contributing to building international cyber security capability, especially in the Pacific.

Environmental security

New Zealanders are vocal in their concerns about the environment and believe that everyone should take responsibility. Reducing waste is rated as the second most important challenge facing New Zealand over the next 20 years, behind reducing poverty. Citizens lobby their government for more action on reducing emissions and improving water quality. In August 2022, New Zealand released its first national plan to prepare for the floods, fires and rising seas it expects due to climate change in future.

3/ Ireland is on the list of the safest countries in the world in 2023

Newly in the top ten (up from 11th in the last Global Peace Index ranking), Ireland continues to benefit as memories of political unrest recede. It enjoys a very low serious crime rate, is militarily neutral, and has a strong economy. It is certainly a beautiful place to live, with stunning rural landscapes, beautiful historical sites, rich literary and artistic history, friendly local communities and a sophisticated city culture. From a safety point of view, it’s worth being aware that the weather and the dramatic landscape can prove challenging.

Public health

Ireland offers high-quality, universal healthcare. Additionally, the government provides medical cards to those with lower incomes. There’s also a drug payment scheme which caps monthly spending on prescription drugs. However, there are choices in terms of service delivery points and levels of care, so looking into private health insurance is advisable.

Infrastructure

Ireland’s cities and larger towns offer very different experiences from some of the more rural areas. While urban communities are served by safe, modern and efficient transport networks, more remote areas may not have public transport to the same standard, although personal safety is not considered an issue. Electricity is the main source of energy in Ireland, but some rural communities also rely on oil heating.

Personal safety

Other than the usual precautions about carrying valuables and staying vigilant there is no reason to believe you are unsafe in Ireland. The crime rate is low, as is the threat of terrorism or cultural violence. The number of road deaths is roughly parallel to that in the UK, but it’s worth noting the rugged landscape and sometimes extreme weather in the country can be challenging.

Digital security

Six of the top 10 cyber security companies are located in Ireland. Dublin is Europe’s largest data hosting cluster, and represents a significant talent pool, research centre and focal point for the whole digital security industry. National Broadband Ireland connects rural communities to high-speed fibre under the National Broadband Plan.

Environmental security

In 2021, Ireland signed the legally binding Climate Action Act into its law and set out a framework for achieving international and EU climate targets, including a path to net-zero emissions by 2050, and a 51% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.

Ireland’s government, and many energy and climate commentators, produce open and detailed reports on the country’s progress in these areas.

4/ Denmark is one of the safest places in the world

This Scandinavian country is generally considered one of the safest countries in the world. It has a low crime rate and there’s almost no risk of natural disaster. It benefits from continued economic stability, and a strong sense of common responsibility for social welfare. Denmark consistently ranks high in terms of liveability and happiness, and Copenhagen, the Danish capital, is number 1 in the Economist’s Safe Cities Index for 2022.

Public health

According to the OECD, people enjoy good access to high-quality healthcare in Denmark, with the country spending over the EU average on healthcare – 10.1% of GDP. Check out our latest ranking of countries with the best healthcare system.

Infrastructure

Denmark has a highly advanced infrastructure, and claims to offer the most reliable electricity in Europe. Copenhagen’s airport ranks at number 3 in the European Consumer Airport Index. Public transport is of a very high standard.

Personal safety

Crime levels in Denmark are low, and driving standards are high, making it one of the safest countries in the world.

Digital security

Broadband is available almost everywhere in the country. The government is currently strengthening digital security with its Cyber and Information Security Strategy.

Environmental security

Denmark aims to recycle 70% of all its waste by 2024. It has invested in greener public transport, and Copenhagen has its own climate adaptation plan.

5/ Austria is one of the safest countries in the world

Picturesque historical villages, modern cities, bustling waterways and traditions of classical music, theatre, and gastronomy, all attract expats to Austria. The cost of living is high for a reason; healthcare and education standards are high, and Austria has consistently been one of the safest countries in the world to live in.

Public health

Austria’s healthcare system is ranked in the top 5 by the World Health Organization . Public health insurance in Austria is mandatory if you’re in paid employment, self-employed, claiming unemployment benefits, a pensioner or a dependent. When you start a job, school, or university in Austria, you will be automatically covered. Residents also have the choice of additional private health insurance, which covers extras like flexible visiting hours, private hospital rooms and your choice of doctor.

Infrastructure

The Austrian energy sector is very diverse, including liquid fuels, natural gas, hydropower, other renewable resources, and coal. Nuclear power was legally banned in 1978. Renewable resources are increasing, and the electricity market was opened up in the early 2000s.

After decades of being a monopoly, the telecoms industry is now very highly developed and competitive, though expensive.

Austria has an excellent transport and communication network. The country’s strategic location and relative political neutrality have made it an ideal host for international summits, and communications and transport hubs, which depend on rail, roads and inland waterways.

Personal safety

Austria has a very low crime rate, and you can travel about safely with no more than normal precautions. Some social unrest has led to demonstrations, but these are few and far between and there have been no major acts of terrorism. Road deaths are around double those in the UK, so care should be taken when driving on unfamiliar or mountainous roads. However, the country does offer a great variety of extreme sports and adventure activities, and if you want to take part while in Austria, you should ensure you have the right healthcare insurance.

Digital security

The cybersecurity market is one of the fastest growing ICT subsectors in Austria, propelled by a rise in cyber breaches, and vulnerabilities revealed during remote working in the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, there is very high risk awareness and continuous investment in cybersecurity by government institutions and the larger Austrian businesses.

The local home telecoms market is well-stocked with companies vying for business, from a range of providers.

Environmental security

Austria aims to position Vienna as a platform for international energy diplomacy. Several Vienna-based organisations are working to accelerate electricity access and increase the share of renewable and affordable energy.

A global network hosted in Vienna aims to create an enabling environment for renewable energy and energy efficiency. It will focus on working in partnership with participating states as well as other regional actors to generate long-term national and regional ownership.

6/ Portugal is one of the safest places in the world in 2023

Portugal is the oldest country in the Iberian Peninsula. Its medieval castles, stunning cities and golden beaches combine luxury with natural beauty to deliver some of the most beautiful sights in the world. Friendly locals and an attractive climate make it an ideal destination for families, and retirees as well as those seeking a safe and inspiring place to live and work.

Public health

The standard of healthcare in Portugal is high. Foreign nationals who are classed as residents will usually be eligible for subsidized state healthcare, which incorporates both public and private services. Non-residents and temporary visitors need to buy private health insurance.

Infrastructure

In 2021, Portugal announced a huge investment in public infrastructure including a high-speed rail link between its two largest cities, Lisbon and Porto, to be completed in 2030. Other sectors which will be supported by the programme are transport and energy, and the expansion of deepwater ports to support Portugal’s extensive international trade.

Personal safety

The flow of tourists and an often-hidden level of poverty combine to make petty theft an issue in Portugal, especially in the cities and the predominantly tourist destinations. However other than this, it’s a pretty safe place to be. It’s best to be vigilant on public transport, but more of the country is well served by trains, buses and roads. On a natural level, the Mediterranean seas round Portugal claim many lives each year and there is a likelihood of forest fires in drier seasons.

Digital security

By the end of June 2020, 95.2% of all Portuguese households and 93.6% of rural households had fixed broadband coverage. However, according to a recent report, Portugal ranks second in the world for the percentage of single users affected by spam and phishing. According to the figures, almost one in four of the population was the target of a computer attack last year.

On a larger scale, there is evidence that action is being taken. Energy, communications and transport players have been required by law to report incidents and risks associated with computer attacks to the National Cybersecurity Center since 2018, but it was only last year that the regulation was published, defining obligations in terms of cybersecurity certification.

Environmental security

At the end of 2021, Portugal was reported to have exceeded pollution limits in all environmental categories, such as greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. However, despite the country’s economic and political challenges, it is still committed to improving the environment. The OECD’s Environmental Performance Review of Portugal highlights Portugal’s environmental achievements and makes recommendations for further improvement, including that more be done to make environmental and economic policies mutually supportive.

As part of its 2021 investment commitment, €13 billion has also been directed towards clean energy projects, largely centred around hydrogen production.

7/ Slovenia is one of the safest countries in the world

Previously one of the 6 republics in the former Yugoslavia, Slovenia retains historical ties to Western Europe, whilst being transformed into a modern state. The country is very welcoming towards expatriates, blending rustic architecture and sophisticated culture, and providing a pleasant living environment amidst snow-capped mountains, beautiful rivers and a heavenly coastline.

Public health

As part of the EU, Slovenia offers healthcare services on a par with other European countries, dispensed through public as well as private healthcare service providers. All businesses and employees contribute to the public healthcare system by paying taxes, and specialists may charge an additional fee for some of their services. Expats from outside the EU must purchase private health insurance for themselves and their dependent family members, and proof will be required to get a visa.

Infrastructure

Slovenia’s transport infrastructure is well developed, with a high level of government investment. There are good-quality roads and expressways, a railway, which is being upgraded, and well-maintained air and sea ports.

The country exceeds the EU average in overall fixed broadband take-up. 5G technology is already available for wider use across the country. Costs are low, with flat rate access available for residential and business users.

Personal safety

Slovenia is largely protected by its geographical location from most of the world’s areas of conflict or unrest. It’s one of the cleanest countries in Europe, with a low risk of natural disasters. Though not completely non-existent, crime rates are very low in Slovenia, children can be seen playing in the street and – while it is not to be recommended – locals are known to leave their cars or homes unlocked.

Digital security

There is a growing level of interest in cyber security and tech development in Slovenia, which has a history of learning programming at an early age. This also contributes to a high level of awareness of cyber risk.

Environmental security

Slovenia is one of the most water-rich European countries in Europe. The country’s electric power transmission network is well connected to the European network. The country is ranked 14th in the World Energy Trilemma Index which measures energy security, energy equity and environmental sustainability.

8/ The Czech Republic is one of the safest countries in the world

The landscape of the Czech Republic boasts national parks, stunning small towns and medieval fairy tale castles. The capital city, Prague, enjoys a thriving social and cultural scene, and is surrounded by mountains and forests offering the full range of winter and summer activities. Much has been done to create a vibrant, safe and modern country in the wake of its years as part of the former Czechoslovakia.

Public health

Healthcare is generally good and relatively inexpensive with many services available free or for a small fee.

Infrastructure

The Czech Republic is working on modernising its communications infrastructure. Access by providers is open and competitive.

The Republic inherited an extensive public transport network of bus and train routes from Czechoslovakia, which reaches even the most remote locations. Public transport is cheap and clean, and significant investment has been made in roads and expressways.

Most electricity is generated by fossil fuels (76%) While a portion of this production comes from coal, oil is imported from Russia. Nuclear power contributes 20% of electricity production.

Personal safety

Although the Czech republic is one of the safest countries in the world, some public protests against the war in Ukraine may cause localised strife. Petty theft, especially in tourist areas remains the main problem, and there is some corruption involving bogus plain clothes policemen. Trams in town and city centres have been known to cause accidents.

Digital security

Cyber-security has been on the minds of Czech politicians since 2011, when a national authority responsible for cyber-security was set up. Activity was increased in 2014, when the Czech Republic signed the Act on Cyber-Security.

Environmental security

The Czech Republic has prioritised environmental protection and security issues. It continues to work at reducing emissions and is committed to continuing its battle against air and water pollution, poor waste management, and needless destruction of nature. However, there are some challenges, including opposition to nuclear power from activists and neighbouring countries.

9/ Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world

Singapore has long been a desirable destination for people from all over the world, traditionally those working in trade and finance. In more recent years, its reputation as a safe, friendly, and efficient country has led expats of many kinds, including families and retirees to settle down to enjoy its warm, comfortable climate, friendly locals, and high standard of living.

Crime is clamped down on hard in Singapore, and firearms are strictly controlled. The city state comes third in the Safe Cities Index. Check out our full guide on moving to and living in Singapore as an expat.

Public health

Healthcare in Singapore consistently ranks among the best in the world. It offers a universal system, as well as private healthcare. Life expectancy in Singapore is among the longest in the world.

Infrastructure

Singapore Changi, one of the busiest airports in south east Asia, is also rated as one of the world’s best. Singapore also has a world-leading port and telecommunications.

Personal safety

Its very low crime rate is one of Singapore’s attractions. In fact, it’s one of the safest cities in the world. Violent crime, in particular, is rare and guns are strictly controlled.

Digital security

Singapore comes second in the Safest Cities digital security ranking, but scams are far from unknown. This country is also famous for hosting a vast number of digital nomads.

Environmental security

Singapore’s Green Plan 2030 sets out its agenda on sustainable development. Among its targets are to plant 1 million new trees and reduce waste sent to landfill by 30% in 2030.

10/ Japan is one of the safest countries in the world

Ranked the second-safest country in Asia in the Global Peace Index, and with Tokyo ranked 5th safest city in the Economist index, Japan has a reputation for being a secure country to live in and visit.

Public health

Japan has the longest life expectancy in the OECD as well as low rates of obesity and below-average alcohol consumption and smoking. The country has a universal healthcare system, where patients pay 30% of the cost of medical care, and the government 70%.

Infrastructure

As well as its sophisticated road and airport network, Japan is well known for its cutting-edge, high-speed trains, including the Shinkansen (bullet train) network.

Personal safety

The crime rate in Japan is low, and crimes targeting foreigners are uncommon, according to security organisation OSAC, making it one of the safest countries in the world.

Digital security

Cyber security in Japan was strengthened in the run up to the Tokyo Olympics, but cyber-crime is still an issue.

Environmental security

Japan is taking steps towards becoming carbon neutral in 2050. These include investing in next-generation solar panels, hydrogen fuel and electric vehicles.

The effect of war in Ukraine on the world’s safest countries

A world in which many nations have begun to recover from the shock of the COVID-19 pandemic has changed in February 2022. Many of the ramifications of the lockdowns remain, including supply chain disruptions and delays, product shortages, higher energy and food prices. The war in Ukraine has already triggered fundamental changes in defence postures and policies, supply chains, and food security:

1. Inflation has risen around the world, reaching 8% per year in the USA and 7% in Europe early in 2022. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine will likely result in further inflation.
2. Military spending has doubled since 1980 to nearly $2 trillion, however as a percentage of GDP it has fallen from four per cent to two per cent.
3. China announced an increase in military spending – a 7.1% rise in 2022 relative to the previous year (to US$229 billion). However, this does not appear to be directly related to the outbreak of war in Europe, but rather to international and regional geopolitics.
4. Social media is changing the way intelligence is gathered, for example Ukrainians are using Meta to crowd source data on Russian troop movements. Intelligence is also shared instantaneously, raw and with little analysis.
5. The war and the international sanctions placed on Russia have put additional pressure on food prices, as both Russia and Ukraine are large exporters of agricultural commodities. The two countries also export natural gas – an important component in the production of fertiliser.

The war has underlined the importance of technology in shaping the conduct of conflict, the social media revolution, artificial intelligence, and the greater affordability of drones have changed warfare. Information is fluid and content-driven, as it is meant to be broadly shared in a raw, uncensored format.

The effect of COVID-19 on the world’s safest countries

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on safety and peace across the world, leading to both increases and decreases across the whole spectrum of violence and conflict.

While most countries recorded a fall in interpersonal violence owing to the pandemic, the level of violent crime and homicide did surge in a few countries, most notably the United States.

FAQ for the safest countries in the world in 2023

Wherever you move, go with total peace of mind

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