10 most peaceful countries in the world

EACH year, the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) produces a report on Global Peace Index (GPI), which among others, measures the relative position of nations' and regions' peacefulness based on various internal and external factors.

Despite various unrest occurs in all parts of the world, the study that began in 2007, and now in its eighth year ranks 162 nations according to their 'absence of violence.'

If you are concerned about safety issue when going on holiday abroad, here we list the top 10 safest countries according to GPI:

10 - Norway

Despite Norway’s modern history timeline has been tarnished by Anders Behring Breivik bombing case in 2011, that does not make Norway any less safe to be visited.

This Scandinavian country is proud for holding the world’s highest human development record. Oslo government is always concerned of the well-being of its people in many areas.

9 - Belgium

Located at the centre of Europe continent, Belgium stands as the pillar of European Union and strives as a pro-active North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) nation.

The crime rate in Belgium is very low despite being plagued by a series of political unrest between the year 2008 and 2011.

Its historical medieval legacy reflects well in its architecture where magnificent city halls and palaces co-exist with the beautiful natural landscape.

8 - Japan

Dubbed as the Land of the Rising Sun, Japan is no doubt a proud nation where culture is seen in every parts of the island nation.

Since the end of World War II, Japan has maintained low crime rate due to its strict law enforcement.

Japan managed its internal conflict so well and that has contributed to its growth for so many years, thus emerged as the world’s third largest economy.

6 - Finland

Although Finland delayed its direction towards implementing industrial system as compared to its European neighbours, it is now one of the world’s highest per capita income nations.

Finland is a top performer in numerous metrics of national performance, including education, economic competitiveness, civil liberties, quality of life, and human development.

5 - Switzerland

According to IEP, Switzerland is quite particular in maintaining its system of good governance and the survival of its culture.

Best known for its chocolates, watches and the Alps, Switzerland scores the highest in political stability as well as having low crime rate.

Upholding its neutral stand globally, Switzerland also believes in sustaining diplomatic relations with other countries.

4 - New Zealand

Located remotely in the southwest of Pacific Ocean, New Zealand boasts a great biodiversity with its unique flora and fauna.

The culture of the indigenous Maori and early British settlers is still a part of the daily practice of its population.

New Zealand is a member of the United Nations, Commonwealth of Nations, ANZUS, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, Pacific Islands Forum and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation.

3 - Austria

The origins of modern-day Austria date back to the time of the Habsburg dynasty when the vast majority of the country was a part of the Holy Roman Empire.

It went through series of socio-political hiccups before gaining its independent status in 1955. Austria has since transformed itself into becoming a prosperous country.

According to IMF, Austria is currently ranked as the 13th richest country in the world.

2 - Denmark

Denmark clinched second place in the list of the safest countries in the world. Its people do not tolerate conflict and violence as they world rather focus on working hard towards a better economic achievements.

The country enjoys high standard of living and the country ranks highly in numerous comparisons of national performance, including education, health care, protection of civil liberties, democratic governance, prosperity and human development.

1 - Iceland

The country is well-known for its glaciers and volcanoes. Despite those extreme natural elements, its people hold a plausible principle of distancing themselves from world conflicts.

Tourists love to visit Iceland for the bustling energy of cosmopolitan city or the quiet green serenity of the landscapes.

Apart from that, its capital Reykjavik promises a fun and peaceful experience for visitors.