In a world that continues to deliver bad news day after day, it seems there is just no getting away from it. With violence on the streets, political upheaval around the world and societies growing seemingly more and more frustrated – and with no signs of any of this looking to cease any time soon – the question arises for those of us who want a more peaceful life for ourselves and for our families, just what can we do?
For some people around the world the answer is simply to pack up and leave, moving to pastures new and more importantly, pastures more peaceful. But how do you measure peace and how do you know just where to go?
Well, every year the Institute of Economics and Peace releases the Global Peace Index (GPI) report, in which countries are ranked on their relative level of peace decided by 22 different factors including the absence of war, relationships with neighbouring countries and levels of violent crime, among others. Each of the 162 countries which are measured are awarded a GPI score of which the lower the number, the more peaceful the country.
So which countries made the latest Top 10 then we hear you ask? The 10 most peaceful countries of 2016 are as follows…
10. Czech Republic There is no wonder that this country has such a diverse population. The Czech Republic is very popular with expats due to its low levels of crime, efficient emergency services and safe and cheap public transport systems.
9. Australia Aside from great weather, fantastic opportunities and a brilliant educational system, Australia is classed as one of the least corrupt countries in the world with people who place large levels of trust in their government.
8. Japan Technologically forward thinking and savvy with bullet trains that can hit 350 km/hr, Japan has a very low rate of violent crime and homicide. This exciting country is a top choice for expats who are seeking a safer life.
7. Canada The Canadian government has got it right when it comes to building a good nation, putting the safety of the country's citizens at its core. No wonder so many Canadians place their trust in their government, making for a less chaotic and conflict-free environment.
6. Finland A country that is known for its free education at all levels and also ranking high for gender equality, there are many reasons for which a would-be expat may want to move here. For those wanting a safer environment to raise a family, there are also very low levels of crime and violence.
5. Switzerland Apart from stunning landscapes, this picturesque country features clean cities and amazing food. Additionally, salary rates are high while crime and taxes are low, making for a nation of very happy people.
4. New Zealand Being home to the lake that has the clearest water in the world as well as featuring a hill that has the longest place name in the world, New Zealand is a safe, thriving and happy country. For expats, there is also the lure of fantastic education and advanced health-care: what more could you want?
3. Austria There is no wonder that millions of tourists flock to this beautiful European country every year with its very low levels of crime and very high standards of living. This would make a great home for a peace-yearning expat.
2. Denmark Quite possibly one of the happiest countries in the world, Denmark has high literacy rates, free education and healthcare and extremely low levels of crime and violence. This makes it a wonderful place to live and top choice for expats.
1. Iceland At the top of the list for being conflict-free and peaceful for the 6th year in a row is idyllic Iceland, which has very low rates of homicide and terrorism. Additionally, being a remote island, Iceland is able to stay out of border disputes making it the best country to be in for anyone who wishes to put peace and safety first.
