Why in news?
The Institute for Economics and Peace released the Global Peace Index (GPI) for 2025, ranking 163 countries on their level of peacefulness. India was placed 115th with a score of 2.229, improving slightly from the previous year but still below many of its peers. Iceland remained the world’s most peaceful country for the 17th consecutive year.
Key findings
- Top performers: Iceland, Ireland, New Zealand, Austria and Switzerland occupy the top five positions, benefiting from low crime, stable governance and minimal external conflict.
- India’s position: India improved its score by around half a per cent, thanks to reductions in internal conflict and violent crime. However, high military expenditure, border tensions and occasional communal violence keep its ranking low.
- Least peaceful countries: Nations at the bottom of the index include Russia, Ukraine, Sudan, Syria and Afghanistan, where ongoing wars and political instability have devastated societies.
About the index
- Indicators: The GPI uses 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators grouped under three domains – ongoing domestic and international conflict, societal safety and security, and militarisation.
- Purpose: By comparing countries, the index highlights drivers of peace and helps policymakers identify areas for improvement.
Implications for India
India’s middling rank underscores the need to address structural issues such as unresolved border disputes, rising socio‑economic inequalities and communal tensions. Investing in human development, promoting justice, and fostering regional cooperation can help India move towards a more peaceful society.