The 2026 Global Peace Index shows that global peace continues to be concentrated in a relatively small group of stable countries, with Northern Europe and parts of the Asia-Pacific region dominating the top of the rankings, Vision of Humanity reports.
Iceland remains the most peaceful country in the world in 1st place. It continues to benefit from very low crime rates, strong social cohesion, and the absence of a standing military. Over the past year, improvements in safety indicators have helped keep its position firmly at the top.
In 2nd place is New Zealand, which remains the highest-ranked country in the Asia-Pacific region. It continues to score strongly across safety and security measures, with low levels of internal conflict and stable institutions.
Switzerland ranks 3rd, maintaining its long-standing position among the world’s most stable countries. It continues to perform well across all major indicators, particularly in internal security and political stability.
In 4th place, Slovenia has strengthened its position further, reflecting steady improvements in safety and security. Ireland follows in 5th place, continuing to benefit from very low levels of internal and external conflict.
Austria ranks 6th and remains one of the most stable countries in Central Europe, although small fluctuations in security-related indicators have slightly affected its position. Portugal is 7th and continues to be one of the most peaceful countries in Southern Europe, with consistent performance across all categories of the index.
Singapore holds 8th place and remains the clear leader in Southeast Asia. It continues to stand out for extremely low crime rates and strong governance, making it one of the safest urban states globally.
The Nordic countries remain strongly represented. Finland ranks 9th and continues to be one of the most stable societies in the world, with high levels of trust and strong public institutions. Denmark is in 11th place, still very close to the top ten, and remains among the safest countries globally.
Japan rounds out the top ten, reflecting continued stability in East Asia, even as defence policies and security spending gradually evolve. Malaysia ranks 12th, showing gradual improvements but still just outside the very top group.
