Latest news with #GPI
Newsweek
20 hours ago
- Politics
- Newsweek
'Most Peaceful Country' Report Lists Ukraine, Russia Last: See Who Is First
Based on factual reporting, incorporates the expertise of the journalist and may offer interpretations and conclusions. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The new Global Peace Index (GPI) report ranked countries based on their "level of peacefulness," placing Russia as the least-peaceful country and Iceland as the "most peaceful country" in the world. The 19th edition of the report from the Australia-based Institute of Economics & Peace (IEP) looked at 163 independent states and territories using 23 indicators to measure the level of societal safety and security, the extent of ongoing domestic and international conflicts, and the degree of militarization. Of the 163 countries ranked, 74 improved their placement while 87 slid from last year's ranking. The GPI found an average deterioration of peacefulness of about .36 percent, marking the sixth year in a row that overall peacefulness declined. Why It Matters The world has seen increased instability in the international security landscape, with conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East adding to global tensions. President Donald Trump hit on this issue during last year's presidential campaign and promised that upon taking office he would tackle the major conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. In the past months, Trump has pursued a number of peace deals, including one signed this month between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, ending the fight between Congo government forces and rebels allegedly backed by Rwanda. The GPI report noted that there are currently 59 active state-based conflicts, "the most since the end of WWII and three more than the prior year." What To Know The 2025 GPI found that "global peacefulness continues to decline and that many of the leading factors that precede major conflicts are higher than they have been since the end of WWII. More countries are increasing their levels of militarization against the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions, increasing conflict, the breakup of traditional alliances and rising economic uncertainty." Published earlier this month, the GPI had a relatively unchanged top 10, which Iceland topped, followed by Ireland, New Zealand, Austria, Switzerland, Singapore, Portugal, Denmark, Slovenia, and Finland. The biggest move at the top saw Canada tumbling out of the top 10 and land at tied-14th with the Netherlands, who did not move at all. The United States ranked 128th, just ahead of Ecuador, Brazil and Libya, but behind Bangladesh, South Africa, Honduras, Togo, and Kenya. Israel placed 155th, just ahead off South Sudan, Syria, and Afghanistan. Both the U.S. and Israel ranked last for the GPI "Militarization domain," which appears to have a significant weighting, while Russia and Ukraine ranked last in the "Ongoing Conflict domain." Afghanistan, Yemen, South Sudan, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan ranked last for the "Safety and Security domain." The Palestinian Territory was ranked 145, ahead of Turkey, Iraq and Nigeria and behind Colombia, Haiti, Iran, Niger and Pakistan. A woman rides a scooter past the damaged Pokrovy Presvyatoyi Bohorodytsi Church in the city of Svyatohirs'k, Donetsk region on June 26 amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. A woman rides a scooter past the damaged Pokrovy Presvyatoyi Bohorodytsi Church in the city of Svyatohirs'k, Donetsk region on June 26 amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Tetiana Dzhafarova/AFP via Getty Images What People Are Saying The authors of the 2025 Global Peace Index wrote, in part: "The world has become less peaceful over the past 17 years, with the average country score deteriorating by 5.4 per cent since the index's inception in 2008. Of the 163 countries in the GPI, 94 recorded deteriorations, while 66 recorded improvements and one recorded no change. Seventeen of the 23 GPI indicators deteriorated between 2008 and 2023, while seven improved." Later in the same report, they wrote: "Despite the overall deterioration in peacefulness globally, some indicators recorded noticeable improvement. The perceptions of criminality and homicide rate indicators both continued their long running trend of improvement. The violent demonstrations indicator also improved, although it has deteriorated for 12 of the past 17 years." "There were substantial improvements for many Safety and Security indicators, including violent demonstrations, terrorism impact and the homicide rate. Several countries in the Central and North America region recorded significant reductions in the number of homicides, although the region still has the highest average homicide rate of any region," they wrote.
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Politics
- Associated Press
Dr. K. A. Paul, the World's Most Popular Evangelist and Nobel Peace Prize Nominee has called for the Impeachment of Trump and Netanyahu for War Crimes
The following is an open letter from Dr. K.A. Paul, a world-renowned evangelist and politician. He is the founder of the US-based organizations Global Peace Initiative (GPI) and Gospel to the Unreached Millions (GUM) and has operated orphanages, including Charity City in Hyderabad. NEW YORK, June 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- My dear friend in the Media and fellow citizens of the world, after much prayer I am coming before you. I just heard prime minister Netanyahu's speech which is most boastful and foolish speech ever given by any world leader, though I have met and counselled 155 of the 197. In his speech like a Savior as if he has accomplished a great mission by killing 3 Iranian chiefs dozens of scientists and experts, while starving a million poor people in Gaza to death. Is it not against God's law to kill? against the United Nations charter to wage a war against another country? For a powerful video message President Trump said last week that Tulsi Gabbard the Director of US intelligence is wrong about Iran not having the nuclear weapons but why did he did not fire her? Was not legendary Secretary of State Colin Powell used in 2002 by then US President George W. Bush to lie about Iraq weapons of mass destruction? So who is correct here? US intelligence or Trump or Netanyahu? as per the Washington Post Trump lied or misled 30573 times in 4 years. Netanyahu an ICC convicted war criminal acting like Hitler for which the 60% of the Israelis are not supporting his policies . Trump committed an impeachable offense as per the US Constitution to take the US to war without Congress approval therefore he will be the first in US history to be impeached for third time. While bombing Iran mistreating world leaders like Zelensky behaving like a baby for the Nobel Peace Prize. Let us pray for all 56 wars to be stopped and trillions of dollars not to be wasted killing millions of lives. All media reporters please share this message until we reach all the Peace lovers of the World. Blessed are the Peace Makers and cursed are the War Mongers. About Dr Paul: Please click the link below to read the Norway News story that explains in detail his global peace and humanitarian work around the world. Since 1981, he has travelled to 155 countries, conducted 2200 peace rallies, rescued 310 thousand orphans and street children, and counselled 155 world leaders. He has been credited for stopping several wars including Liberia in 2003 and the India and Pakistan war in 2002. His mission had been reported by many news media including AP, Reuters, BBC, CNN, Fox, NBC, CBS, and MSNBC. For more information call or text 3468126546 Email: [email protected] View original content: SOURCE Global Peace Initiative
Business Insider
2 days ago
- Politics
- Business Insider
African countries involved in five or more external conflicts
Countries such as the United States, Russia, Iran, and France posted some of the highest scores on this indicator. In total, 44 countries saw their scores worsen in this area, with four of the ten steepest declines occurring in sub-Saharan Africa. Business Insider Africa presents the African countries involved in five or more external conflicts in 2024. The list is courtesy of Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) In total, 44 countries saw their scores worsen in this area, with four of the ten steepest declines occurring in sub-Saharan Africa. If the world feels a little tenser, a little more uncertain lately, you're not imagining things. The 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI) confirms that global peacefulness has declined yet again, marking the sixth straight year of backsliding and the 13th time in the last 17 years. Despite this trend, the Safety and Security domain was the only one of the GPI's three core indicators to register an improvement. A total of 95 countries saw gains in this domain, compared to 67 that recorded a decline. Improvements were largely driven by better public perceptions of criminality, lower scores on the political terror scale, and a reduction in violent demonstrations. Notably, the global homicide rate has reached its lowest point since the index was first introduced. However, the most significant deterioration came from the External Conflicts Fought indicator. This measure worsened notably due to the growing involvement of foreign actors in domestic conflicts worldwide. Countries such as the United States, Russia, Iran, and France posted some of the highest scores on this indicator. In total, 44 countries saw their scores worsen in this area, with four of the ten steepest declines occurring in sub-Saharan Africa. As of 2025, 98 countries have been at least partially involved in external conflicts over the past five years, a sharp increase from just 59 in 2008. In many instances, these involvements included supporting incumbent governments in battles against rebel groups or terrorist organisations. The findings show a concerning trend, while some aspects of safety are improving domestically, international conflict and foreign interventions continue to destabilize global peace. Below are the African countries involved in five or more external conflicts: Rank Country UN Involvement African Union Involvement Other Total 1 Cameroon 4 2 6 2 Burundi 3 3 6 3 Burkina Faso 3 2 5 4 Nigeria 2 3 5 5 Tanzania 4 1 5 6 Rwanda 4 1 5 7 Ghana 2 3 5 8 Niger 3 2 5
Business Insider
3 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
10 least peaceful African countries in 2025, according to latest ranking
Sudan ranks as the least peaceful country in Africa and the third least peaceful globally. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the average peacefulness also declined by 0.17% over the past year. Business Insider Africa presents the 10 least peaceful African countries in 2025, according to latest ranking. The list is courtesy of Global Peace Index. Sudan ranks as the least peaceful country in Africa and the third least peaceful globally. The 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI) reveals that the world has become less peaceful for the 13th time in the past 17 years, with the average level of global peacefulness declining by 0.36% over the last year. This marks the sixth consecutive year of deteriorating global peace. Although global attention has largely centred on the ongoing wars in Gaza and Ukraine, the conflict remains widespread. 78 countries saw a decline in peacefulness between the 2024 and 2025 editions of the GPI. A key contributor to this trend was a rise in external conflicts, with 46 countries experiencing more such conflicts than in the previous year. The Militarisation domain also worsened, with 86 countries recording deteriorations. Notably, global military spending rose, with average military expenditure as a percentage of GDP reaching its highest level since 2010, increasing by 2.5% over the past year. This marks a reversal from a decade-long trend of decreasing militarisation, driven by rising geopolitical tensions and escalating conflicts. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region remains the least peaceful in the world for the tenth straight year, recording a slight decline in peacefulness of 0.17%. Four of the ten least peaceful countries globally are located in this region. Sudan ranks as the least peaceful country in MENA and the third least peaceful globally, following a 0.54% decline in its peace score. This deterioration was largely due to worsening conditions in indicators such as nuclear and heavy weapons, displaced populations, and internal conflicts. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the average peacefulness also declined by 0.17% over the past year. While half of the countries in the region showed improvements, the other half experienced setbacks. The region is home to three of the world's ten least peaceful countries, showing persistent challenges to stability. Below are the 10 least peaceful African countries in 2025, according to latest ranking: Rank Country Score Global rank 1 Sudan 3.323 161st 2 Democratic Republic of the Congo 3.292 160th 3 South Sudan 3.117 156th 4 Mali 3.061 154th 5 Burkina Faso 3.016 152nd 6 Somalia 2.983 151st 7 Central African Republic 2.912 150th 8 Nigeria 2.869 148th 9 Niger 2.759 143rd 10 Ethiopia 2.688 138th
India.com
3 days ago
- India.com
From Iceland To Singapore: 10 Most Peaceful Countries You Need To Explore In 2025
photoDetails english 2922383 Updated:Jun 26, 2025, 11:48 AM IST 1 / 13 In a world full of chaos, conflict, and uncertainty, peace has become more valuable than ever. Some nations stand out not just for their scenic beauty or economic strength, but for their stable societies, low crime rates, political neutrality, and commitment to harmony. These countries have become symbols of safety, well-being, and content living. What Makes a Country Peaceful? 2 / 13 Peace isn't just the absence of war—it's the presence of justice, safety, and sustainability. The Global Peace Index (GPI), compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace, ranks countries based on various indicators like internal conflicts, crime rates, political stability, and military involvement. The countries below consistently rank high in these aspects, making them ideal destinations for peaceful living or travel. Top 10 Most Peaceful Countries on Earth. Iceland 3 / 13 Why it's peaceful: For over a decade, Iceland has topped the Global Peace Index. With no standing army, low crime, strong gender equality, and a high standard of living, it's a model of modern peace and balance. New Zealand 4 / 13 Why it's peaceful: A stable political environment, low crime rate, and a deep connection with nature make New Zealand a sanctuary. The Māori culture and respect for indigenous heritage add to its cultural peace. Ireland 5 / 13 Why it's peaceful: Ireland enjoys strong democratic institutions, low violence, and a cooperative society. Despite past conflicts, modern Ireland has emerged as one of Europe's calmest nations. Denmark 6 / 13 Why it's peaceful: Denmark is known for its progressive policies, welfare support, and minimal corruption. The people here enjoy a high level of trust and equality—key elements of lasting peace. Austria 7 / 13 Why it's peaceful: Nestled in the Alps, Austria offers political neutrality, strong legal systems, and low levels of violence. Its cultural richness coexists with a deep sense of public order. Portugal 8 / 13 Why it's peaceful: Portugal is often praised for its hospitality, low cost of living, and safe cities. With minimal international conflict and social unrest, it's a magnet for peaceful living and travel. Slovenia 9 / 13 Why it's peaceful: This small European gem boasts stunning landscapes, a green mindset, and very low crime. Slovenia is often called one of the cleanest and calmest places to live in the world. Czech Republic 10 / 13 Why it's peaceful: With modern infrastructure, peaceful protests, and low violent crime, the Czech Republic scores high on civic freedom and public safety—especially in cities like Prague. Singapore 11 / 13 Why it's peaceful: Strict laws, disciplined governance, and high public trust make Singapore one of the safest countries in Asia. It's a hub of cultural harmony and peaceful coexistence. Switzerland 12 / 13 Why it's peaceful: Famous for its political neutrality, Switzerland offers unmatched safety, excellent public services, and a calm way of life. It's a favorite for those seeking a blend of natural and social peace. 13 / 13 Peaceful countries set an example for the rest of the world in how to build inclusive, secure, and sustainable societies. They attract global citizens looking for quality of life, stress-free travel, and future stability. Whether you're planning to move abroad or just need a break from the noise, these destinations are worth considering.
