The Global Peace Index (GPI) is a measurement of how peaceful a country is across three primary areas: ongoing conflict, societal safety, and militarization. Analysts study crime levels, political stability, incarceration rates, and military spending to produce a numerical score. Higher scores indicate lower levels of peace.
Below is a list of the world’s top ten most dangerous countries, according to the latest GPI rankings out of 163 nations worldwide.
The World’s Most Dangerous Countries
1. Yemen (GPI 3.397, World Rank 163)
Yemen is the most dangerous country in the world. It sits at the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, historically benefiting from trade routes along the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Its economy struggles under blockades, destroyed infrastructure, and scarce resources.
Years of internal conflict and foreign interventions have shattered government control across large areas. Bombings, widespread hunger, and limited medical care contribute to a high risk for residents and outsiders.
Despite turmoil, Yemen has deep cultural roots with ancient forts and historic port cities like Aden. Many archaeological sites remain off-limits because of ongoing violence. Humanitarian personnel are among the few foreigners present, traveling under strict security protocols.
2. Sudan (GPI 3.327, World Rank 162)
Sudan straddles North and East Africa, with the Nile River running through its heart. Agriculture once thrived here, but decades of power struggles and civil wars stunted economic growth and public services.
Frequent protests, armed militia activity, and political instability make daily life unpredictable, particularly in cities like Khartoum. Infrastructure gaps hamper swift responses to crises, and tensions escalate quickly in border areas.
Some historical sites along the Nile River showcase ancient Nubian pyramids and temples. However, ongoing unrest deters most tourism. Essential visitors include aid workers and diplomats, who adopt stringent safety measures.
3. South Sudan (GPI 3.324, World Rank 161)
South Sudan became independent from Sudan in 2011, inheriting substantial oil reserves. Initial hopes for prosperity faded amid ethnic clashes and civil war. Infrastructure outside a few urban centers remains underdeveloped.
Banditry, militia raids, and intercommunal fighting put travelers at serious risk. Basic amenities like clean water and healthcare are scarce in remote areas, and roads can be impassable without armed escorts.
A handful of cultural and natural sites exist, such as swampy wetlands teeming with birdlife. However, nearly all foreign visits involve humanitarian aid or peacekeeping, with robust security support.
4. Afghanistan (GPI 3.294, World Rank 160)
Afghanistan occupies a strategic crossroads in Central Asia, marked by rugged mountains and centuries of shifting empires. Agriculture remains vital, though illicit opium production also shapes the rural economy.
Decades of war, including recent regime changes, leave large parts of the country under militant control or contested by local factions. Violence, limited policing, and sporadic terror attacks endanger both residents and visitors.
Historic sites in places like Bamiyan Valley and the ancient city of Herat hold immense cultural significance. Yet ongoing conflicts severely restrict tourism. Specialized groups and journalists sometimes visit under heavy security arrangements.
5. Ukraine (GPI 3.28, World Rank 159)
Ukraine sits in Eastern Europe, long known as Europe’s breadbasket for its vast farmlands and agricultural exports. Its cities, like Kyiv and Lviv, once drew visitors to historical architecture and cultural festivals.
A major escalation of conflict with Russia began in 2022, leading to active hostilities in multiple regions. Missiles, shelling, and troop movements make everyday life precarious in war-affected zones. International tensions remain high, with widespread displacement.
Though safer areas exist in the west, travel across the country is risky without constant monitoring of current events. Many UNESCO-listed sites and vibrant cultural traditions remain inaccessible for typical tourism during ongoing military operations.
6. Democratic Republic of the Congo (GPI 3.264, World Rank 158)
The DRC spans Central Africa, rich in minerals such as cobalt, copper, and diamonds. However, armed groups control parts of the east, battling for resources and territory. Political institutions face chronic challenges.
Kidnappings, ambushes, and violent crime often target locals and foreigners in conflict-prone areas. Humanitarian crises flare amid disease outbreaks and mass displacement. Infrastructure is extremely limited in remote provinces.
A few adventurous travelers aim to see gorillas in national parks like Virunga National Park. Such expeditions demand reputable operators and can be canceled if fighting escalates. UN peacekeepers and NGOs work under tight security conditions.
7. Russia (GPI 3.249, World Rank 157)
Russia is the world’s largest country by land area, stretching across Eastern Europe and northern Asia. Historically, energy exports and heavy industry have fueled economic might.
Recent conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, elevated international tensions. Domestic crackdowns on dissent and regional unrest in places like the North Caucasus also reduce overall safety. Travelers may face strict regulations and bureaucratic hurdles.
Russia’s cultural heritage includes grand cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg, known for museums, palaces, and cathedrals. The Siberian wilderness holds natural wonders, but current geopolitical strains make visitation more complicated.
8. Syria (GPI 3.173, World Rank 156)
Syria sits at a crucial intersection of the Middle East, historically celebrated for ancient cities like Damascus and Aleppo. Yet a civil war that began in 2011 has devastated infrastructure, housing, and essential services.
Bombings and clashes continue in some regions, and millions of Syrians remain displaced. International players and local factions make the conflict landscape highly unstable. Basic resources such as power and clean water can be scarce.
Before the war, Syria’s archaeological sites, including Palmyra, drew global interest. Much of that heritage has suffered damage or remains inaccessible. Humanitarian missions and a handful of journalists represent the bulk of foreign arrivals.
9. Israel (GPI 3.115, World Rank 155)
Israel lies in the Middle East along the Mediterranean coast. It boasts a technologically advanced economy and is known for historical sites sacred to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Long-standing regional disputes, combined with frequent political tensions in Jerusalem and elsewhere, drive security concerns. Militancy, rocket attacks, and civil unrest periodically impact both urban and border areas.
Despite these challenges, Israel hosts a robust tourism sector in calmer periods. Religious pilgrims and history enthusiasts explore places like the Old City of Jerusalem or the Dead Sea. Visitors must stay alert to shifting advisories and local developments.
10. Mali (GPI 3.095, World Rank 154)
Mali, in West Africa, once welcomed travelers to its desert festivals and famed cities like Timbuktu. Agriculture and gold mining anchor the economy.
Insurgent groups and extremist factions operate mainly in the north and central regions, carrying out attacks and kidnappings. Government forces struggle to maintain order, making road travel beyond major cities perilous.
Traditional music, historical mosques, and vibrant markets remain cultural treasures. Yet tourism is minimal due to the risk of armed conflict. Any essential travel typically demands professional security escorts and up-to-date local intelligence.
These ten nations contend with a range of issues—active conflicts, crippled economies, or weak governance—placing them at the bottom of the GPI. While each country holds cultural and historical value, ongoing strife deters most casual tourism. Anyone venturing to these areas should closely track official travel advisories, enlist local expertise, and adopt rigorous safety protocols.
