In today's world, safety and peace are paramount for the well-being of societies. Unfortunately, not all countries can offer these assurances. The Global Peace Index (GPI) provides a comprehensive measure of the peacefulness of countries worldwide, highlighting those with significant issues affecting their safety and stability. Here, we delve into the ten most dangerous countries in the world, exploring the reasons behind their high GPI scores and the challenges they face.

What is GPI?

The Global Peace Index (GPI) is a comprehensive measure that gauges the relative peacefulness of nations and regions worldwide. It evaluates countries based on various indicators, including levels of violence, conflict, incarceration rates, and military expenditure.

The GPI scores are derived from 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators from reputable sources. These indicators are divided into ongoing domestic and international conflict, societal safety and security, and militarization.

Understanding GPI scores helps policymakers, researchers, and the general public grasp the security dynamics of different regions. It provides a snapshot of where intervention may be needed to restore peace and stability.

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10 - Iraq: A Land of Persistent Conflict

Iraq has been plagued by conflict for decades, from the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s to the U.S.-led invasion in 2003. These conflicts have left deep scars on the nation's infrastructure and society.

9 - Sudan: Struggling with Internal Strife

Sudan's history is marred by civil wars, including the devastating Darfur conflict that began in 2003. Coups and authoritarian rule have characterized the country's political landscape.

8 and 7 - Somalia and Ukraine: Twin Scores, Different Struggles

Somalia has been in a state of conflict for decades, with the collapse of its central government in 1991 leading to years of anarchy. The presence of terrorist groups like Al-Shabaab exacerbates the instability.

Ukraine's recent conflict with Russia has dramatically affected its peace score. The annexation of Crimea and the ongoing war in Eastern Ukraine have led to significant loss of life and displacement.

6 - Russia: A Powerful Nation with Internal Challenges

Russia has a complex history of conflicts, from the Soviet era to the recent annexation of Crimea. Its geopolitical actions continue to impact its relations with neighboring countries.

5 - Democratic Republic of the Congo: A Hotbed of Violence

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has experienced prolonged conflict since its independence. The First and Second Congo Wars brought immense devastation to the nation.

4 - South Sudan: The Least Peaceful in Sub-Saharan Africa

South Sudan gained independence from Sudan in 2011, but internal conflict soon erupted into a brutal civil war. Ethnic tensions and political rivalries have fueled the violence

3 - Syria: A Decade of Destruction

Syria has been engulfed in a devastating civil war since 2011. The conflict began with protests against President Bashar al-Assad's regime and quickly escalated into a full-scale war involving multiple factions and foreign powers.

2 - Yemen: The Humanitarian Crisis

Yemen's civil war began in 2014 when Houthi rebels took control of the capital, Sana'a. The conflict has drawn in regional powers, leading to widespread devastation.

1 - Afghanistan: The World's Most Dangerous Country

Afghanistan has been in a state of conflict for over four decades, from the Soviet invasion in 1979 to the recent U.S. withdrawal and the resurgence of the Taliban.