Global Peace Index 2025: Iceland has once again secured its position as the most peaceful country in the world, as per the 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI), an annual ranking compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). India, meanwhile, has been awarded 115th rank out of 163 countries, showing a modest change from its earlier position. This list has covered 163 independent states and territories and represents 99.7% of the global population. This is also recorded as a long-standing trend, as Iceland has managed to bag the top spot since 2008, as per a report by The Independent.
Where does India stand?
India’s surge in the ranking indicates a modest but notable improvement in peacefulness. As per The Indian Express report, India’s GPI score is registered at 2.229, signalling a 0.58% upgradation in peace levels in comparison to last year.
Some improvements have been marked by the only region in the overall peacefulness criteria is South America. Countries like Argentina and Peru are also making remarkable gains.
The index is responsible for assessing peace across three parameters-societal security and safety, ongoing domestic or international disputes, and militarisation. Iceland has achieved the highest rankings all over three areas in 2025. The reason behind this declaration is lower crime rates, strong social trust, and the absence of an army.
Top ten countries featured in the Global Peace Index 2025
Following Iceland in the global peace rankings are Ireland, New Zealand, Finland, Austria, Switzerland, Singapore, Portugal, Denmark, and Slovenia. These countries’ names have been declared as the top ten most peaceful nations in the world. Europe, on broader terms, continues to cover the upper slot of peaceful countries.
Despite this brighter side, the overall global outlook is concerning. As per the GPI report, the world has become less peaceful on average. The reason behind this fall is growing internal conflicts, a surge in militarisation, and geopolitical divide.
On the other hand, sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East continue to remain among the least peaceful places. The bottom of the index ranking features Russia, Ukraine, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Yemen. Meanwhile, South Africa also records a notable decline in peace. The main factors behind the fall are civil unrest and suppression in countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan.