These are the most peaceful countries in the world

The Institute for Economics and Peace published its 13th edition of the Global Peace Index (GPI), which ranks 163 independent states and territories according to their level of peacefulness. Using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators, the report focused on the level of Societal Safety and Security; the extent of Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict; and the degree of Militarisation. New this year was an analysis of trends in Positive Peace. The good news: there was a slight uptick in global peace this year, the first ascent in five years. Key findings include Afghanistan edging out Syria as the least peaceful nation. Read on to find out the top 20 countries.

Northern lights, fjords, and Arctic skies are among Norway’s symbols of beauty and peace. Norway was recently elected to the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency because it gives high priority to international non-proliferation efforts. Verdant, safe, and branded as one the happiest places to live, Norway boasts a low crime rate and a high number of electric cars, plus it’s home to polar bears and reindeer.

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The quality of life in Sweden is very high and it tied with Belgium, also No 18. Like other Nordic countries, Sweden has universal health care, free higher education, and pensions are doled out by the government. In addition, the state delivers subsidised housing and childcare and residents of this Scandinavian county have great access to clean drinking water. A country with a big heart, this is the reason why Swedes work only six hours per day.

Belgium tied with Sweden in the 18th position in the world, gaining three places from last year. One of the smallest European countries, it is a place that practises tolerance and diplomacy. Belgium was rated No 18 in the World Happiness Report. Could peace and happiness have a little to do with chocolate, beer, and medieval rooftops?

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When one thinks of the Netherlands, peaceful images of fields of tulips, windmills, cheese markets, wooden shoes and bicycles come to mind. Its ranking of No 17 in the 163 countries may have something to do with its falling crime rate. Favouring rehabilitation over punishment, the country sees a dwindling number of convicts. Its tolerant drug policies also contribute to low crime rates.

“Malaysians prefer to live with the laws of peace despite the different religions and teachings in the country,” Former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad was quoted as saying in the Malay Mail. Unlike the Philippines, which was ranked as the least peaceful in the region, Jimmy Choo’s birthplace is a place of peace and harmony where Malays, Indians, Chinese, and various ethnic groups happily coexist. Its diverse geography features coral reefs, rugged mountains, skyscrapers and rainforests.

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Bhutan has recorded the largest improvement of any country in the top 20, rising 43 places in the last 12 years according to the study. The country is brimming with shrines devoted to the peace-loving religion of Buddhism and has laws to prohibit over-tourism, and places great value on happiness. According to the report, “Bhutan and Pakistan were amongst the 25 countries with the largest reductions in the homicide rate last year.”

Lush green forests, Baltic Islands and blue lakes dot the landscape of Finland, which is home to 40 national parks you can visit for free. Finland is committed to promoting equality-related values in society around the world and recently honoured the Human Rights Campaign by presenting them with HÄN Honours. Berry picking and hopping into one of three million saunas add to the sense of peace found in Finland. Peace is illuminated in the midnight sun and Northern lights.

According to the report, “Australia fell one place in the index due to an increase in militarisation, namely weapons imports, military expenditure, and nuclear and heavy weapons.” A country known for its natural wonders, rich Aboriginal culture, beaches, wineries, the bush and the outback, Australia boasts a low population density (3.38 people per square kilometre) and a long history of economic stability. Last year it had the largest median wealth per average adult.

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The Emerald Island boasts green landscapes, rainbows, and possibly a pot of gold for its 4.85 million residents. According to the Irish Mirror, the people who live in Ireland are, ‘kind, funny, helpful and warm.’ Peace permeates in the safe country where people enjoy a simple way of life.