The World's safest and unsafest countries in 2025: Why the US and UK landed on the wrong side of the list

In 2025, the global conversation around safety continues to be a crucial topic for travelers, expatriates, and policymakers alike. Recent data from the Numbeo Safety Index 2025 reveals which countries around the world are considered the safest and the most dangerous. Interestingly, the United States and the United Kingdom, traditionally viewed as stable and secure nations, have landed on the wrong side of the safety ranking, highlighting growing concerns about crime rates and public safety in these countries.



The World’s safest countries in 2025
Topping the 2025 safety ranking are several countries known for their low crime rates and robust security infrastructure. The world’s safest countries based on the Numbeo Safety Index include:

• Andorra: with a safety score of 84.7
• United Arab Emirates (UAE): 84.5
• Qatar: 84.2
• Taiwan: 82.9
• Oman: 81.7

These countries excel in maintaining public safety and personal security, making them attractive destinations for tourists and expatriates. Their success can be attributed to effective law enforcement, stable political environments, and comprehensive safety policies.



The least safe countries according to 2025 data
Conversely, the index highlights several countries grappling with serious safety challenges. The unsafest countries in 2025 include:

• Venezuela: safety score of 19.3
• Papua New Guinea: 19.7
• Haiti: 21.1
• Afghanistan: 24.9
• South Africa: 25.3

These nations face a complex mix of issues such as high crime rates, political instability, economic hardship, and social unrest, which negatively impact public safety and security perceptions.


The rank of the United States and the United Kingdom in safety
Perhaps most striking in the 2025 report is the relative positioning of the United States and the United Kingdom. Despite their developed economies and strong institutions, both countries rank lower than many expect:

• The United States is ranked 89th with a safety score of 50.8.
• The United Kingdom ranks slightly higher at 87th with a score of 51.7.

The factors that contribute to lower safety scores in the US and UK
Several factors contribute to the relatively low safety scores for the US and UK in the 2025 safety ranking:

• Rising violent crime rates in certain urban areas
• Concerns about public security, especially in densely populated cities
• Increased reports of theft, robbery, and property crime
• Challenges in community policing and social cohesion

These issues have influenced how citizens and travellers perceive safety, impacting the overall safety index score.



Why does safety ranking matter
Understanding the world’s safest and most dangerous countries is essential for multiple reasons:

• Travel planning: Tourists rely on safety rankings to make informed decisions about where to visit.
• Business decisions: International companies consider safety when investing or expanding operations.
• Public policy: Governments use safety data to improve law enforcement and social programs.
• Expatriate choices: People moving abroad seek safe environments for themselves and their families.

Understanding the Numbeo Safety Index 2025
The Numbeo Safety Index is a widely referenced measure of safety and security worldwide. It compiles user-contributed data on various factors including crime rates, perceptions of public safety, and personal security concerns. The 2025 index evaluates 146 countries, providing a comprehensive overview of global safety trends.

According to the latest report, safety scores reflect how safe residents and visitors feel in their daily lives, factoring in the likelihood of violent crime, theft, and other safety risks. This index is particularly useful for travelers and international business professionals seeking to understand where they can feel most secure.