Guarding Society: Safety and Security Domains from Most to Least Peaceful

The Societal Safety & Security Ranking evaluates countries based on their safety and security across various domains, including crime rates, law enforcement effectiveness, and political stability. This ranking offers a comprehensive view of global societal peace and security levels.

Which countries have the highest levels of societal safety and security?

Iceland ranks first with an index score of 1.237, followed by Norway (1.266) and Japan (1.283), which are recognized for their low crime rates, strong legal systems, and high levels of personal safety. Denmark (1.295) and Singapore (1.316) also rank highly, offering safe and secure environments due to effective governance and public safety measures.

Other top-ranking countries include Slovenia (1.345), Finland (1.349), and Switzerland (1.364), which benefit from robust law enforcement, social stability, and minimal political unrest. Qatar (1.442) and Austria (1.452) also exemplify societies with strong safety and security frameworks.

What challenges do the lowest-ranked countries face in safety and security?

Afghanistan ranks last with an index score of 4.127, reflecting widespread instability, conflict, and insecurity. Other nations with high insecurity include Yemen (3.789), Syria (3.532), and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (3.747), where ongoing conflict, political turmoil, and violence severely impact societal safety.

Countries like South Sudan (3.696), Mali (3.589), and Central African Republic (3.579) face significant challenges due to weak governance, armed conflicts, and economic instability, which contribute to high crime rates and insecurity.

How does societal safety vary across global regions?

Regions such as Europe and East Asia dominate the top rankings, benefiting from strong legal systems, low crime rates, and stable political environments. Nordic countries like Iceland, Norway, and Sweden set the standard for high societal safety, while East Asian nations like Japan and Singapore also excel in maintaining secure societies.

On the other hand, regions in Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Latin America and South Asia face substantial challenges related to security. Nations like Afghanistan, Yemen, and Venezuela highlight the impact of conflict, political instability, and poverty on societal safety and security.

What factors contribute to high societal safety rankings?

Countries that rank highly in societal safety typically have strong governance, low levels of corruption, effective policing, and well-functioning judicial systems. High social cohesion, economic stability, and active community engagement also contribute to creating safer societies. Conversely, countries with low rankings often suffer from political instability, conflict, poor law enforcement, and widespread poverty.

Why is societal safety and security important for positive peace?

Societal safety and security are essential for maintaining peace and fostering a stable environment in which individuals can thrive. A secure society encourages economic development, supports social justice, and enhances the overall quality of life for its citizens. The Societal Safety & Security Ranking provides valuable insights for policymakers to address safety challenges and promote peace globally.