Safety is one of the first factors travelers consider when they are going for a holiday overseas, and is what people mull over when they consider immigrating. Everyone wants to be assured that they will be safe and secure for their vacation or relocation in a new country.
The crime rate provides insights into the level of safety and security locals and tourists enjoy in a particular country. Another reliable way of knowing that a country is safe is by checking the 2018 Legatum Prosperity Index.
This annual index shows how 149 countries have moved toward or away from a higher standard of living or prosperity. Nine pillars are considered to evaluate the ranking of each country, and one of these key pillars is safety and security.
Using this key pillar, the seven safest countries in the world are:
1. Norway
- Aside from ranking number one overall in the 2018 Prosperity Index, Norway ranks highest in terms of safety and security.
- The citizens of Norway feel safe and secure on a personal and national level. With its great track record, travelers also flock here since this is one of the few countries they are sure they can be out of harm’s’ way for their holiday.
- In terms of crime rate, the country has one of the lowest in Western Europe and even in the world.
2. Japan
- The safest country in Asia, Japan ranks second in the world in terms of safety and security.
- The crime rate in Japan is relatively low. Because of this, locals feel safe day and night, inside and outside their homes. They are also satisfied with the safety and security of their living infrastructures and the surrounding environment.
- Japan is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Although this is mainly due to its numerous tourist attractions, many travelers choose to have their holiday here since theft and other types of crime hardly take place.
3. Singapore
- Ranking 21st in the latest Prosperity Index, Singapore also scores high on personal safety and national security. Incidences of homicide and theft are low in this country.
- Singapore also has one of the biggest populations of foreign workers in Asia. As such, the high level of safety and security that the country is experiencing now is a sentiment shared by both locals and immigrants.
- There is also a low incidence of crimes against tourists in this country.
4. Hong Kong
- Ranking fourth on the safety and security pillar, the people of Hong Kong have enjoyed years of protection from violence and other forms of vicious crimes.
- Although non-violent crimes do occur in Hong Kong, they are infrequent. Additionally, the country’s modern policing system has helped greatly in deterring and solving crimes.
- With these two factors, Hong Kong maintains its status as one of the safest countries for locals, immigrants, and tourists.
5. Ireland
- The second European country to rank high on safety and security, Ireland remains one of the best places in the world for national security and personal safety.
- In addition, residents feel safe and secure in their daily lives. They are satisfied with their housing and food supply. Lastly, they are content with the quality of their living environment and infrastructure.
- Low-level crimes happen from time to time in certain areas of Ireland. However, this has not reduced the influx of immigrants and tourists from different parts of the world.
6. Malta
- Ranking sixth on the safety and security pillar, Malta has one of the lowest incidences of violent and non-violent crimes in Europe. Because of this, citizens enjoy a high sense of safety and security all year round.
- Malta is also a popular tourist destination. The country’s low crime rate, warm climate, recreational areas, and famous landmarks make it one of the most sought-after holiday spots in Europe.
7. Netherlands
- Aside from having the reputation of being one of the most beautiful countries in the world, the Netherlands enjoys low crime rates as well. Moreover, crime stats continue to decline annually.
- One of the reasons behind the continuous decline of the crime rate in the Netherlands is its low levels of poverty. The Netherlands ranks ninth on the Prosperity Index. Because of this, the quality of living standards in this country is high.
- With the locals satisfied and happy, not many people turn to crime for whatever reason. This has kept the Netherlands firmly able to maintain its position as one of the safest countries in the world.
- With the data the Legatum Institute has gathered on the standards of safety and security of all participating countries, it is worthwhile taking note of them as you make your travel or immigration plans.