When planning a trip, you don't just have to think about climate conditions and places of interest. More and more people are also asking themselves about the safety of a destination. This is why the Institute for Economics & Peace (IEP) publishes its Global Peace Index every year. In this index, it evaluates a total of 163 independent countries and territories on the basis of the state of their peace. For the assessment, they use factors such as political stability, the crime rate, economic stability, social harmony, the level of militarization, the sense of community within the country, effective law enforcement and the probability of natural disasters. As always, European countries dominate the top spots this year. But what are the 10 safest countries outside Europe in 2024?

10: Qatar

Change on previous year/total: ↓ 9

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The many different facets that go into the evaluation of the Global Peace Index make for astonishing results. For example, Qatar is "only" the 10th safest country outside Europe, although tourists have absolutely nothing to fear here. The crime rate is particularly low, there are no open conflicts in the country and the risk of natural disasters is also low.

9: Kuwait

Change compared to previous year/total: ↑ 1

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Kuwait can lay claim to 9th place. It's an absolutely safe country for travelers. Provided, of course, that you follow the rules. This applies especially to women. Here, too, every effort is made to ensure that the crime rate remains low.

8: Mauritius

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Relaxing under tall palm trees on a white beach, snorkeling, enjoying delicious Creole cuisine: on Mauritius you can live this holiday dream without a care in the world. The greatest danger is probably being hit by a coconut. And the probability is relatively low.

7: Bhutan

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The happiest country in the world is also one of the safest countries outside Europe. In the overall ranking, including European countries, Bhutan reaches 21st place. Virtually no natural disasters, peaceful coexistence and virtually no crime also make the country very attractive for travelers. In addition, some new luxury hotels have opened their doors in Bhutan in recent years, including the Six Senses Bhutan.

6: Australia

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Values such as freedom, respect, fairness and equality are anchored in the Australian soul. Australians are considered to be particularly relaxed for a reason. Of course, Australia's nature and wildlife may not always be kind to you - think poisonous jellyfish, spiders and crocodiles - but it always makes up for it with a little thrill in between. For example with the Great Barrier Reef or some of the best waves for surfing.

5: Japan

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The constitution of Japan prohibits warfare and military forces. Instead, the country relies on diplomacy and international law. Within the country, crime rates are very low and religious conflicts are also rare. There's harmonious coexistence and a strong sense of community.

4: Canada

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The friendliness of Canadians is legendary. It's also noticeable in everyday interactions. The political situation as well as the independent jurisdiction, the emphasis on personal rights and economic stability ensure that both residents and tourists in Canada only have to worry about the odd grizzly bear.

3: Malaysia

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At first glance, it may seem surprising that Malaysia is so far ahead in the ranking of the safest countries outside Europe. In the overall ranking, the country is in 10th place. One reason for this is the tolerant attitude of the population towards one another. This makes life in the country and visiting as a tourist relaxed and peaceful. Many different communities live together in the country. Muhibbah is seen as a unifying force. The Arabic word stands for love or well-being.

2: Singapore

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From a global perspective, the religious diversity prevailing in Singapore is unique. The country has an exemplary high tolerance towards all religions. However, barely a third of the population describes itself as religious. Since its declaration of independence in 1965, the idea that diversity is a foundation of the country has prevailed in Singapore. Pluralism is seen as a success factor here.

1: New zealand

Change on previous year/total: ↓ 1

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New Zealand is not only a beautiful country, but also a leader in the Global Peace Index 2024. The Kiwis are ranked 4th overall behind Iceland, Ireland and Austria. There are virtually no international conflicts, very low crime rates and an effective government. Militarization is also very low. Travelers and locals can simply enjoy the relaxed life in New Zealand.