In June 2024, the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) released the 18th edition of the Global Peace Index (GPI), presenting the current ranking of the world's safest countries. This index evaluates 163 independent states and territories, covering 99.7% of the global population, using 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators developed by the IEP in 2007. These indicators are reviewed annually to measure peacefulness. Europe continues to be the most peaceful region globally, boasting 7 of the 10 most peaceful countries, including the top 3. Notably, Portugal is ranked 7th in the GPI, making it one of Europe’s safest countries and one of the safest in the world.
Portugal Has Been Among the Top 10 Safest Countries in the World Since 2015
Portugal has consistently ranked in the top 10 of the Global Peace Index (GPI) since 2015, when it achieved the 8th position. Notably, it reached the 2nd position in 2017, driven by low levels of violent crime and political instability. In 2024, Portugal is ranked as the 7th safest country in the world, an impressive feat considering the global decline in peace.
Europe remains the safest region in the world in 2024, hosting seven of the top 10 safest countries. The GPI, an annual report, assesses the relative peacefulness of nations and regions by examining three core aspects: societal safety and security, the extent of domestic and international conflict, and the degree of militarisation.
This comprehensive evaluation includes factors such as crime rates, incidences of terrorist acts and violent demonstrations, relations with neighbouring countries, political stability, and the proportion of the refugee population. A total of 23 indicators measure the absence of violence or fear of violence, which are scanned annually to ensure the GPI remains a reliable and trustworthy global ranking. This methodology enables the Institute for Economics and Peace to assess a country’s harmony or discord and determine the safest places to live.
With Europe’s outstanding position as the safest region globally, does Portugal rank among the countries with the lowest crime rates?
Continue reading and find out more about the safest countries in the world below.
Top Safest Country in the World
1. Iceland
Iceland continues to top the Global Peace Index, maintaining its undisputed position. Known for its high quality of life, this Nordic country boasts a rich Viking history and exotic landscapes, including volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and lava fields. In 2024, Iceland stays the most peaceful country in the world, a position it has held since 2008.
2. Ireland
Ireland, often called the “Emerald Isle” for its stunning green landscapes, has a millennial history marked by medieval castles. In 2024, it retains its title as the second safest country in the world according to the Global Peace Index.
3. Austria
Austria, located in Central Europe by the Eastern Alps, is a federation of nine states, including the capital Vienna. Famous for its musical history, medieval castles, palaces, and cathedrals, Austria is also a top destination for winter sports. In 2024, Austria reached third place on the Global Peace Index, an incredible achievement.
4. New Zealand
New Zealand, an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, consists of two main islands and over 700 smaller ones. It remains the only Oceanic country among the top safest countries in the world. In 2024, New Zealand dropped from third to fourth place, primarily due to changes in the militarization aspect rather than an increase in violent occurrences.
5. Singapore
Singapore ranks fifth and is one of the two Asian countries in the top ten, along with Malaysia at number ten. This city-state is highly multicultural, with four official languages. In 2024, Singapore rose from eighth to fifth place, reflecting its commitment to improving societal security.
6. Switzerland
Switzerland surprised everyone in 2024 by moving up from ninth to sixth place in the GPI ranking. Known for its neutrality, the country has remained unaffected by past European conflicts. With a strong economy boosted by banking operations, Switzerland offers its citizens a high quality of life.
7. Portugal
Portugal, located on the Iberian Peninsula next to Spain, is bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, which played a crucial role during the Age of Discovery. Known for its rich history, culture, and sunny weather, Portugal maintained its seventh position in 2024, the same as in 2023, demonstrating its stability and commitment to peace.
Why is Portugal one of the Safest Countries in the World?
Despite holding the seventh position in 2024, Portugal is extremely safe. It consistently ranks among the safest countries in the world, with little variation in the Index. In 2017, Portugal reached its highest rank ever, standing in second position. The Global Peace Index has classified Europe as the Safest Region in the World, despite recent and ongoing world events. As a member of the European Union, Portugal adheres to high standards of security and safety.
Portugal emphasises a healthy relationship between its police forces and local communities, which improves efforts against criminal activities. The country also focuses on crime prevention, starting early with school programs on safety and active campaigns against criminality. Portugal’s modest size and population make it easier to maintain peace in a smaller territory.
In recent years, Portugal has experienced a tourism boom, making it a key economic driver, representing 20% of the Portuguese GDP in 2024. This has led to increased efforts to foster and promote safety. While normal precautions should always be taken when visiting or moving to Portugal, violent crime remains at an all-time low and continues to decline. Petty theft and domestic violence are the main criminal occurrences.
Portugal is a Safe Haven for Families
When moving abroad with your family, the main priority is to ensure everyone will be safe, healthy, and happy. Many key factors influence this decision, but you won’t regret moving to Portugal. The country truly proves to be a haven where your family can thrive on all levels.
The cost of living is crucial, especially with a family, as extra expenses such as healthcare, education, clothing, transportation, and school supplies add up. Compared to other countries ranked higher on the Global Peace Index, Portugal is by far the most affordable.
It's not just the cost of living that makes Portugal appealing. Unlike other European countries like Iceland, Ireland, Denmark, and Austria, known for their long, harsh winters, Portugal is famous for its sunny weather. As one of the sunniest countries in Europe, Portugal enjoys mild winters and comfortable summers, with fantastic beaches perfect for creating lasting memories.
Furthermore, the lifestyle in Portugal is naturally relaxed and oriented toward family, friends, and social hangouts. The Portuguese culture supports this with strong family-friendly policies. Education is a high priority, with significant government investment in the public system and many international schools available. Portugal also boasts some of the best universities in Europe for tertiary education.
Though all these factors are crucial, the best part about Portugal is its harmony of essential societal aspects with high levels of security. The country registers a high level of public safety, with most crimes related to property and domestic violence. It’s truly possible to have it all when ensuring your family's safety, and Portugal is the perfect place for it.
Portugal is a Safe and Low-Risk Destination for Investments
While investments always carry out risks, these are mitigated when applied in Portugal. The country is both politically stable and economically strong, having the EURO as its official currency and being part of the European Union.
For over a decade, Portugal also operated the most successful Golden Visa program in Europe, which produced more than 6 billion EURO over a decade, revealing the country’s ability to captivate and safely manage foreign investment. In October 2023, the option to directly purchase Real Estate to qualify for the Portugal Golden Visa was discontinued, though the country still represents an excellent investment opportunity, especially with the Portugal D2 Visa, a Residency by Investment programme suitable for non-Europeans seeking Portuguese residency.
The Portugal D2 Visa is the best Golden Visa alternative, enabling investors to become residents in 3 months and citizens after 5 years, serving as the perfect launching pad for EU Citizenship. Ever since its inception, Portugal Homes quickly became a key player in the Golden Visa market, emphasising Portugal’s levels of stability to international investors as a selling point for minimal-risk investments with great returns. This has led Portugal Homes to handle vast amounts of capital securely and efficiently, all the while guiding hundreds of investors toward Residency in the European Union.
Portugal Homes is set to continue leading the residency by investment programmes in Portugal with its exclusive D2 Visa solutions, including Mátria Co-Space €280,000 package investment option. Contact Portugal Homes specialists and learn everything about the Portugal D2 Visa. Fill out our query forms and one of our representatives will reach out as soon as possible.
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