Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025

According to the 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI), the number of state-based conflicts has reached its highest level since World War-II, with three more breaking out this year alone. Many countries are responding with increased militarisation. Yet despite those grim statistics, some nations continue to prioritise peace.

Key Highlights

• Produced by: Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP).
• Tracks:23 indicators across 3 domains –
  1. Safety & Security (terrorism, crime, homicide, refugees)
  2. Ongoing Conflict (internal & external conflicts, deaths from conflict)
  3. Militarisation (military expenditure, arms imports, armed personnel)

Findings 2025

• Global conflicts: State-based conflicts at highest since WWII; 3 more conflicts erupted this year.
• Many nations responding with increased militarisation.

Top Performers

1. Iceland – Most peaceful since 2008; leads across all three domains.
2. Ireland – Military neutrality, preference for diplomacy; not a NATO member (one of only 4 European non-NATO countries).
3. New Zealand – Improved safety/security; fewer demonstrations & terrorism impacts.
4. Austria – High ranking but slipped one place; constitutionally mandated neutrality, not part of NATO.

India’s Position

• Rank 115 (2025)
• Reflects challenges in internal security, cross-border conflicts, and militarisation.