The index is calculated on the basis of 23 indicators grouped into three criteria: the extent of ongoing domestic and international conflict, societal safety and security, and the degree of militarization.

It is established that the lower the GPI value, the more peaceful is considered a country. At the same time, the authors of the study do not call for making judgments against a particular state emphasizing that the GPI is for reference only: it is important to help humanity cope with the challenges that await it in the future.

9 place - Ireland

Global Peace Index: 1.393

In Ireland, the military is used mainly in UN peacekeeping missions and for defensive purposes. The crime rate in the country decreases annually, and internal social tensions weaken. Visitors are captivated by the amazing atmosphere of the Emerald Isle: its numerous historical monuments, green fields, and hospitable people.

9 place – Japan

Global Peace Index: 1.391

Japan provides its own security only with the help of the Self-Defense Forces which are funded in the amount of 1 percent of the country's GDP. The country does not have a professional army at all. Violent crimes and murders happen very rarely here. The peacekeeping activities of Japan in society are noteworthy.

The technological development of the country, the world's third economic leader, is at a very high level. The transport system is also well developed.

8 place – Singapore

Global Peace Index: 1.382

Since 1965 (since independence), the city-state of Singapore has established itself as one of the most active participants in the global community constantly cooperating with the United Nations and participating in the activities of organizations such as APEC and the WTO. In addition, it is one of the richest countries in the world.

7 place – Czech Republic

Global Peace Index: 1.381

The landlocked Czech Republic is nonetheless one of the most visited countries in Europe. Moreover, mass migration has seriously impacted this small European country making it very diverse in terms of national composition.

Thanks to effective emergency services, violence or looting is extremely rare here. Foreigners feel safe here, including in transport, as well as in numerous restaurants and bars.

6 place – Canada

Global Peace Index: 1,372

In Canada, the safety of citizens is one of the main elements of prosperity, so the crime rate is maintained low here. Only 1.15 percent of GDP is spent on the Canadian Forces funding.

Canada has one of the best education systems in the world, and over 50 percent of people have a higher education. Most of them are completely satisfied with their lives. There virtually no unemployed people.

5 place – Denmark

Global Peace Index: 1.353

Denmark is known for its progressive health care system, high literacy rates, and gender equality. The country's armed forces are fully focused on protecting its sovereignty and maintaining peace.

The rate of corruption in the country is the lowest in Europe, and the standard of living is higher than in many developed countries of the world. A sustainable economy, coupled with a high level of social welfare, has a beneficial effect on the Danish national identity.

The effectiveness of state policy can be traced in many areas, especially in the field of ecology and environmental management.

4 place – Portugal

Global Peace Index: 1.318

Portugal has preserved much of its great past and is now attracting not only by the richest historical and cultural heritage but also by an atmosphere of solitude and security amidst stunning geographic diversity.

Despite the location on the outskirts of Europe, it is a prosperous country with one of the largest GDP growths among OECD countries.

3 place – Austria

Global Peace Index: 1.274

The natural beauty of Austria is world-famous, but the country is also one of the most peace-loving ones on the planet, participating in international peacekeeping missions. The armed forces are mainly aimed at protecting the country, and only a small part of them is present in Kosovo, Lebanon, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In terms of GDP per capita, Austria is one of the richest countries in the world. The high standard of living of the overwhelming majority of Austrians is not conducive to committing crimes. However, local environmental laws are extremely strict with violators.

2 place – New Zealand

Global Peace Index: 1,192

Despite the fact that New Zealand, because of its geographical remoteness, has long remained out of sight of European civilization, in the last 700 years of its existence, it has reached the advanced level of social progress. The forces of self-defense in New Zealand solve a difficult task - the internal defense of the island state, while the defense budget only spends 1.13 percent of the country's GDP.

Thanks to a strong and independent judiciary and incorruptible police, there are few prisons in New Zealand. It also has friendly relations with neighboring countries. Those who decide to cross the Pacific Ocean and live in this country on one of its islands are provided with first-class education and a progressive health care system.

1 place – Iceland

Global Peace Index: 1,096

Iceland, receiving the lowest GPI value by 2018, is currently the most friendly and calm country in the world which is confirmed by the high level of democracy and gender equality.

The literacy rate in Iceland reaches a whopping 99 percent largely because that education in the country is absolutely free. In addition, the country is leading in the number of books published and read. The Armed Forces of Iceland, a member of NATO, numbering just over 200 people, are not a regular army. They only control the airspace and territorial waters of the country.

Russia

The Russian Federation in the ranking of the most peaceful countries of 2018 holds the 154 place - lower than all countries of the former Soviet Union, overtaking only the CAR, Congo, Libya, Yemen, Somalia, Iraq, South Sudan, Afghanistan, and Syria.

Financial crises, which occur in Russia quite often, do not contribute to the peace level of the country.