Iceland has held the title of the world’s safest country since 2008, and there are plenty of reasons as to why.
The results are based on the Global Peace Index, which ranks countries in terms of safety and security against 23 indicators.
Moreover, despite being a NATO member, Iceland does not have a standing army. The small country has never participated in a full-scale war or invasion, and its constitution does not enshrine a mechanism allowing it to declare war. Instead, its defence forces include a Coast Guard, a Crisis Response Unit, a National Commissioner’s National Security, and a Special Unit of the National Police Commissioner.
There are plenty of reasons why Iceland is considered the safest country on the planet, from the quality of life to its natural environment.
Iceland is amongst the top five happiest places in the world, thanks to the country’s welfare system, education, and the heavy focus on equality. Its focus on a happy and healthy lifestyle also has a direct impact on the low crime rate.
The country experiences low levels of theft and has a murder rate of 0 to 1.5 per year, meaning that when a crime is committed, it is often covered by the media for a long time.
What also emphasises the country’s level of safety is their tradition of leaving their babies to sleep in a pram outside to strengthen their immune systems. Icelandic parents have no worries that their child could be kidnapped because it is not something that happens.
The locals take their responsibility of looking out for one another very seriously, with each region of Iceland having its own Search and Rescue team made up of Icelanders.
The FCDO, which provides travel advice for Brits, does not have many warnings besides on outdoor activities and adventure tourism.
The website states: “Hiking, mountaineering and other adventure sports have specific risks. You should: read the Safe Travel Iceland guides; leave travel plans and contact details with your hotel or on Safe Travel Iceland; take a phone with you.”
The website also has some information regarding driving conditions.
It added: “Some main routes can be gravel or dirt tracks. Roads can be narrower than you might be familiar with. Some routes, including bridges, are only a single lane with passing areas. On gravel and loose surfaces, reduce your speed.”
Iceland also provides its own safety information through its “SafeTravel” Iceland app.