The least safe countries to live in vary slightly by index, but consistently include Afghanistan, Sudan, South Sudan, Syria, Yemen, Ukraine, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) due to conflict, instability, and humanitarian crises, with Afghanistan often cited as the least peaceful overall. Other nations like Haiti, Somalia, and Libya also rank highly for danger, while perceptions of safety can differ, placing countries like South Africa and Haiti low in public feeling safe.
The 2024 GPI indicates Iceland, Ireland, Austria, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland, Portugal, Denmark, Slovenia, Malaysia and Canada to be the most peaceful countries, while Yemen, Sudan, South Sudan, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Congo, Russia, Syria, Israel and Mali to be the least peaceful.
According to the 2025 Global Peace Index, Ireland ranks as the 2nd safest country in the world. It takes 12th place in the US News Safety Ranking. Overall, Ireland is a good choice for those looking for high safety levels, a rich traditional culture, easy access to nature, and an EU base.
1. Afghanistan: The Most Dangerous Country for 2025. Afghanistan continues to hold the position as the most dangerous country in the world. Persistent terrorism, rampant political instability, and large-scale displacement have left the nation in a state of severe unrest and a highly dangerous place.
Iceland is consistently ranked as the #1 safest country in the world by the Global Peace Index (GPI), a position it has held for over a decade due to extremely low crime, no standing army, high social cohesion, and minimal conflict, though some other reports might place Switzerland or the Netherlands first based on different survey criteria.
Crime rate by country 2025: 10 countries with the highest crime...
There is increased risk of U.S. citizens being the victim of violent or organized crime. Should a crime a occur, local law enforcement may not be able to help. Specific terrorist threats exist, or attacks have recently occurred. U.S. citizens or the spaces foreigners visit may be the target of an attack.
The top 10 most dangerous places
There have been violent incidents involving tourists at popular tourist locations. There are usually security personnel in the main tourist areas who can assist tourists. However, policing and security can be limited, so always be cautious. Avoid isolated beaches and picnic spots.
1. Memphis. Memphis has one of the highest crime rates in the country at 2,437 per 100,000 people, with assault leading the list. The city has addressed these issues through targeted policing and community engagement initiatives.
Safest towns to live and work
Newbridge had the lowest rate of recorded crime per 1,000 people in 2022, giving it the top spot as the safest place to live. Top 5 safest places to live and work: Newbridge. Cobh.
In citing Ireland as a 'most favoured country' in a comparison of western crime rates, Ted Robert Gurr in 1979 speculated in passing that 'its relatively low volume of crime may be credited to its Gaelic culture, religious traditionalism, or simply its small urban population'3.
In the 19th edition of the GPI, which ranks 163 countries and independent territories, Portugal obtained a score of 1,371 in the GPI (Global Peace Index), second only to the following countries worldwide: Iceland (1st place, maintaining its lead from 2024) Ireland (2nd place, same position as last year)
Iceland remains the most peaceful country in 2022, a position it has held since 2008. It is joined at the top of the index by New Zealand, Ireland, Denmark and Austria.
It's not safe to travel to countries under the highest "Do Not Travel" advisories, including Afghanistan, Syria, Yemen, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, South Sudan, Burma (Myanmar), Central African Republic, Iraq, North Korea, Russia, and Ukraine, due to extreme risks like terrorism, kidnapping, conflict, or political instability, according to sources like the U.S. Department of State and Australia's Smartraveller. Always check your government's latest travel advisories (like travel.state.gov) before planning any trip, as situations change rapidly.
Most Dangerous Cities Across the World
It is generally safe to walk around downtown Cape Town during the day. Touristy areas like Bo-Kaap, V&A Waterfront, Kloof Street, and Long Street are generally safe. Neighborhoods like Camps Bay and Clifton are generally safe as well. I spent a few days walking and biking around Cape Town alone and had no issues.
Irish citizens who are planning to visit South Africa for less than 90 days, do not require a visa. If you wish to visit for longer than 90 days please consult your nearest Embassy or Consulate of South Africa before travelling.
Neutral colours
These colours help you blend into the natural surroundings and avoid unwanted attention from wildlife. Whatever you do, avoid bright colours, including white, as well as dark colours like black, purple and navy blue, which can attract insects in certain regions.
In another report, Insider Monkey compiled data on crime and political instability and selected as its most dangerous countries (in descending order) Syria, Libya, Somalia, Venezuela, Honduras, Papua New Guinea, Yemen, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Central African Republic.
Iceland is consistently ranked as the #1 safest country in the world by the Global Peace Index (GPI), a position it has held for over a decade due to extremely low crime, no standing army, high social cohesion, and minimal conflict, though some other reports might place Switzerland or the Netherlands first based on different survey criteria.
In 2025, global safety remains a top concern for travelers, with the Crime Index by Country 2025 highlighting the 10 most unsafe countries in the world, including places like Haiti, Venezuela, and Afghanistan.
No, violent crime—especially involving firearms—is much less common in the UK than in the U.S. Most expats report feeling safer from violent threats in the UK. UK crime statistics are generally reliable, but it's important to consider local context and reporting differences.
Worldwide, 70% of people feel safe walking alone at night where they live. The U.S. figure of 72% is about 24th out of the 38 other wealthy OECD countries that Gallup tracked this year, Ray said. And it's similar to Canada, France and Germany.
The safest countries in the world are Iceland, Ireland, New Zealand, Austria, Switzerland, Singapore, Portugal, Denmark, Slovenia, and Finland, according to the 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI).