In a world where headlines are filled with wars, conflicts and political noise, there’s one country that quietly perfected the art of peace: Iceland.
According to the 2025 Global Peace Index, Iceland is once again ranked the most peaceful country in the world — for the 17th year in a row. No other nation has ever come close to such a streak.
Why Iceland?
It’s not just luck. Peace is built into Iceland’s DNA:
- No standing army – defense is managed through diplomacy and international agreements.
- Ultra-low crime rates – violent crime is practically non-existent.
- Strong social trust – Icelanders actually believe in their government and neighbors.
- Equality & welfare – education and healthcare are available for everyone.
When disputes do arise, they’re more likely to be resolved in a Reykjavík coffeehouse than in a courtroom.
Peace by Hot Springs and Harmony
While the rest of the world argues, Icelanders soak in geothermal hot springs, listen to sagas or watch the Northern Lights. Even its famous volcanoes can’t disrupt the calm.
In Iceland, “conflict” usually means deciding whether to eat skyr or lamb stew for dinner.
👉 Curious about more uniquely Nordic traditions? Explore our Best of Nordic Stories for a deeper dive into the region’s way of life.
The Nordic Context
The other Nordic countries — Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden — also score high on the Global Peace Index, often within the global top 20. But Iceland remains in a league of its own.
For nearly two decades, the island has been the global benchmark for peace — the quiet sibling at the Nordic family table who doesn’t just talk about peace, but lives it.
👉 Want to explore how Nordic culture connects across borders? Visit our Best of Nordic main page for travel inspiration.
Why It Matters Globally
The 2025 GPI also reveals that the world is becoming less peaceful overall, with 59 active conflicts currently raging worldwide. Against that backdrop, Iceland’s achievement shines even brighter — a reminder that peace isn’t just possible, it’s sustainable.
Experience Peaceful Iceland Yourself
Reading about it is one thing — but experiencing it is something else entirely. From Reykjavík’s cozy cafés to the silence of the Westfjords, Iceland is a living example of peace in practice.
✨ Ready to discover it yourself? Contact us today and we’ll design a peaceful Icelandic journey tailored to your dreams.