Top 175 Countries Ranked by Women’s Safety

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175 Countries Ranked by Women’s Safety in 2025

Denmark Tops the List for Women’s Safety

Denmark remains the safest country for women in 2025, with its comprehensive measures on gender equality, strong legal protections, and low crime rates contributing to its top position. The Scandinavian nation has consistently prioritized women’s security through progressive policies and active community engagement.

Switzerland and Sweden Keep Their Stronghold on the Top 3

Switzerland holds the second spot, celebrated for its robust social safety nets and strict law enforcement. Close behind is Sweden, known for its gender equality initiatives, excellent healthcare, and education systems that foster women’s safety across all age groups.

Finland and Iceland Maintain Leading Positions

Finland and Iceland, both renowned for their gender parity and high quality of life, continue to rank high. Finland’s emphasis on women’s rights and Iceland’s zero-tolerance policies toward violence against women underpin their top-tier safety standings.

Luxembourg and Norway Follow Suit

Luxembourg and Norway round out the Scandinavian dominance on the list, exemplifying integration of safety policies, societal trust, and gender inclusivity. Their efforts contribute significantly to a secure environment for women, both in urban and rural areas.

European Countries with Notable Rankings

Countries like Austria (8th), the Netherlands (9th), and New Zealand (10th) also showcase substantial efforts to improve the safety and well-being of women through legislation, education, and community programs.

United States and the United Kingdom: Improving but Still Room for Growth

The US is ranked 36th, reflecting a complex landscape of safety measures with areas needing further attention. The UK follows at 26th, with ongoing initiatives aimed at reducing violence and improving protective services for women.

Asian Countries Making Progress

Singapore (15th), Japan (23rd), and Taiwan (37th) have made significant strides in women’s safety through technological innovations, legal reforms, and public awareness campaigns. These nations are increasingly recognized for their proactive approach towards women’s security.

Middle East and North Africa: Mixed Safety Records

United Arab Emirates (22nd) shows a comparatively high ranking due to stringent laws and safety policies. Conversely, some countries in this region still face challenges related to gender-based violence, impacting their overall scores.

Latin America and the Caribbean: Safety Varies Widely

Argentina (49th), Brazil (114th), and Chile (67th) have regions with varying safety levels for women. Social reforms and grassroots movements continue to push for better protections and awareness.

Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia: Growth in Safety

South Africa (90th), Kenya, and India are working toward improved safety measures, yet socio-economic factors and cultural issues still pose significant challenges. Ongoing initiatives aim to address these concerns.

Countries with the Highest Risks to Women

At the bottom of the list, Afghanistan (175th), Yemen, and Syria face severe issues related to gender-based violence, lack of legal protections, and ongoing conflicts, making women’s safety a critical concern.

Key Factors Influencing Rankings

The Women’s Peace and Security Index (WPS) emphasizes housing security, healthcare access, freedom from violence, and economic inclusion. Countries excelling across these domains generally rank higher, emphasizing a holistic approach to women’s safety.

What’s Driving Improvement?

Emerging trends include improved legal protections against gender violence, increased access to education, economic empowerment, and the enforcement of safety laws. Countries investing in social equality tend to see notable improvements over recent years.

Challenges Remaining

Despite progress, global disparities persist. Countries with high crime rates, limited legal frameworks, or ongoing conflicts struggle to prioritize women’s safety, necessitating international cooperation and local reforms.

Image: Women walking confidently through a city street, highlighting safety and empowerment.

Image source: 2025 Women’s Safety Report.

Looking Ahead: Ensuring Global Safety for Women

The 2025 rankings underline the importance of continued policy innovation, cultural change, and international collaboration to foster safer environments worldwide. As nations strive for equality and security, the collective goal remains a world where women can live free from violence and fear.

Sources:
Women, Peace and Security Index (WPS) 2025/2026 Update
Global Safety and Security Reports, 2024-2025