Least Safe EU Countries in 2025 (Global Peace Index): Risks and Travel Tips
In June, the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025 was released — an annual ranking that shows which countries are the safest and the least safe. Once again at the top: Iceland, Ireland and Austria as the most peaceful countries. But what about the other end of the list? Which EU countries are the least safe in 2025 and where should travellers be extra careful? Here is what you need to know.
Which 10 EU countries are the least safe in 2025?
According to the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025, the least safe countries in Europe include the following, starting with the least safe*:
- France
- Cyprus
- Greece
- Romania
- Poland
- Sweden
- Italy
- Norway
- United Kingdom
- Bulgaria
*This list includes only countries in the Schengen Area and the European Union. European countries outside these areas are not included.
How does the Global Peace Index measure safety?
The Global Peace Index (GPI) is an annual study by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), now in its 19th edition. It assesses peace and safety worldwide and is compiled by an international panel of peace experts and institutes. In total, 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators are evaluated across three main pillars:
Societal Safety and Security
Factors such as crime rates, political instability, violent demonstrations and trust in institutions.
Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict
Active wars, military confrontations or diplomatic tensions.
Militarisation
Measured by arms intensity, military expenditure and the ratio of military to civilian personnel.
Each indicator is scored; aggregate scores form a country’s total. The higher the score, the less safe the country is considered. Strong governance, press freedom, low corruption and robust institutions are seen as key pillars of peace. In short, the index reflects how social tensions, geopolitical crises or structural issues affect a country’s stability.
Why are some European countries among the least safe in 2025?
1. France
France leads the list of Europe’s least safe countries in 2025 — while still being the world’s most visited destination.
Ranking:
- 74th globally in GPI, behind Tanzania and ahead of Paraguay
- Safety level: “medium” (yellow)
- Year-on-year: 86th (2024)