The most peaceful and dangerous countries in the world 2026 - ranking

The Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) has published the Global Peace Index 2026, assessing 163 states. Iceland topped the ranking for the 19th consecutive year. Russia ranked last, 163rd, and Ukraine 160th. Israel was among the countries with the lowest level of peacefulness due to armed conflicts.

The Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) has published the Global Peace Index 2026, covering 163 states. Iceland again took first place, maintaining its leadership for the 19th consecutive year due to the absence of an army, low crime rates, and high public trust. The top ten most peaceful countries also included New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia, Ireland, Austria, Portugal, Singapore, Finland, and Japan. Russia ranked last, 163rd, due to the war against Ukraine and high militarization. Ukraine took 160th place. Israel was among the states with a low level of peacefulness due to prolonged armed conflicts. The authors note a decline in the overall level of peacefulness in the world and an increase in the number of conflicts.