Top 10 safest European countries in 2023

Interconnected World for Safety

In an increasingly interconnected world, the allure of new horizons is more compelling than ever. Whether for leisure, work, or a fresh start, travelling or relocating to a foreign country is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. One of the paramount factors influencing this choice is the aspect of safety and security.

Safety is not just about the absence of crime or conflict, it’s about the assurance of a stable environment where one can thrive and explore without constant worry.

Safety and security are not just about personal well-being, but they also contribute to the overall experience of the journey. They allow us to immerse ourselves in a new place’s culture, traditions, and lifestyle without the nagging concern of potential threats. Safety provides the peace of mind that makes the unfamiliar feel at home in a great destination.

In the following article, we will delve into the top 10 safest countries in Europe, offering insights into what makes each a haven for travellers and residents alike. We have used the Global Peace Index as referencing the data below.

Europe’s Long-Standing Safety Record

With its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes, Europe hosts many safe countries and has long been a magnet for travellers and expatriates alike. But in recent years, there’s been a growing interest in this continent for another reason, its reputation for safety and stability based on the Global Peace Index. European countries consistently rank high in global safety indexes thanks to their robust legal systems, low rates of crime, and high living standards.

This reputation has only enhanced the appeal of the most peaceful region, whether for a short vacation, a study program, or a permanent move. The Global Peace Index is a highly regarded index for determining a country’s level of safety.

Criteria for Evaluation

When assessing a country’s safety, many factors come into play. It’s not just about the absence of crime or conflict but a holistic view of the conditions contributing to a secure and stable environment. The Global Peace Index, developed by the Institute for Economics & Peace, provides a comprehensive framework for such an evaluation.

The Global Peace Index considers a wide range of indicators to measure the relative position of the safest countries in Europe. There are three indicators or levels of domains: Societal Safety and Security, the extent of Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict, and the degree of Militarisation.

Societal safety and security factors, like petty theft to violent crime. Social welfare is a critical element, as it reflects the government’s ability to manage the state and provide essential services effectively.

Countries with high political stability tend to have lower violence and social unrest levels in larger cities.

Quality of healthcare is another vital criterion for the safest countries in Europe.

A robust healthcare system ensures the population’s well-being and contributes to the country’s resilience in the face of health crises.

Natural disaster resilience is an important criterion to take into account. Determining risk based on natural disasters involves assessing a country’s preparedness and capacity to recover from natural disasters.

Finally, countries with low levels of terrorism threats are safer destinations. Determining the risk level involves the absence of attacks and the country’s efforts in counter-terrorism and de-radicalisation.

What are the safest countries in Europe?

Although most countries in Europe are safe, the top 10 safest countries in Europe are:

Is it Safe to Live in Eastern Europe?

Living in Eastern Europe, specifically in countries like Moldova, Lithuania, Estonia, and Latvia, offers a unique blend of rich history, diverse cultures, and evolving economies. These countries, once part of the Soviet Union, have undergone significant transformations since gaining independence and is a largely peaceful region.

There are not any major safety concerns for living in the Eastern areas of the European Union. The Nato protected area has not seen any political acts of violence or war-related issues with the conflict in Ukraine and Russia.

Economically, they are emerging markets with growing technology, manufacturing, and services sectors. However, they also face political instability, economic disparities, and ongoing reforms in some parts of Eastern Europe.

The quality of life varies across these countries, with Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia being part of the European Union and having higher living standards than Moldova and Belarus. Domestically in Moldova, the primary safety concern is the unresolved conflict over the Transnistria region, which has led to political instability and occasional flare-ups of violence.

The situation is further complicated by Russian troops in the region, which Moldova considers an occupation force. At present Moldova is still a safe country but carry normal precautions and be aware of the warning signs.

The biggest risk and safety issue in the European country of Belarus is the political unrest following the disputed 2020 presidential election. The government’s crackdown on protests and suppression of opposition voices have led to a tense and volatile environment, with concerns about human rights abuses and potential escalation of violence.

Safest Country in Europe to Visit

The safest country to visit as a tourist is Iceland. Iceland, often called the “Land of Fire and Ice”, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, exciting activities, and many tourist areas making it a must-visit destination for many tourists.

Iceland is home to some of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes. From the geothermal Blue Lagoon, the majestic Gullfoss waterfall, and the Geysir geothermal area to the breathtaking Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, there’s no shortage of natural wonders to explore.

For the adventurous, Iceland offers activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, snorkelling between tectonic plates in Silfra, and exploring volcanic landscapes.

The culture is vibrant, with strong storytelling, music, and cuisine tradition. Visitors can learn about the country’s Viking history, explore its charming towns, and try traditional foods like Skyr and fermented shark.

Which Eastern European Countries Are Safe to Visit?

Eastern Europe’s safety varies by country. While some Eastern European countries have higher peace index scores, others are impacted by geopolitical tensions, such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

It’s important to note that the situation can change rapidly, and checking the latest travel advisories and news updates is always recommended before planning a trip. Eastern European Union countries such as Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and Romania are all safe to visit. Slightly further south, Turkey can be measured for both Europe and Asia. It has a high number of registered criminal offenses but is not an unsafe country overall.

Further east, there is an increased caution in Belarus and can be a dangerous country. As for the Russia-Ukraine situation, it has indeed caused concerns in the region and beyond. Ukraine is the most dangerous country in Europe. The conflict has led to heightened tensions and occasional flare-ups of violence, particularly in the disputed areas of Eastern Ukraine.

As always, safety can be subjective and depends on various factors, including the specific locations within a country, the current political climate, and individual comfort levels. Therefore, tourists and visitors must stay informed about the current situation and take necessary precautions when planning travel. This is all to ensure to make Europe safer.