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The World’s Top 30 Least Peaceful Countries in 2025
In a world that yearns for peace, some nations continue to grapple with conflict, violence, and insecurity. The Global Peace Index (GPI) for 2025 has shed light on the 30 countries that are currently facing the most significant challenges to peace. Here’s a look at these nations that have been marked by turmoil and instability.
1. Russia
Russia finds itself at the top of the list due to its ongoing military actions and internal political unrest. The conflict in Ukraine has dramatically affected regional stability and peace.
2. Ukraine
Ukraine, embroiled in war since the Russian invasion in 2022, faces deep-rooted challenges as it strives to maintain its sovereignty while dealing with the humanitarian crisis that stems from the conflict.
3. Sudan
A country marked by civil war and political instability, Sudan continues to experience violence from various factions. The recent coups and internal strife have exacerbated its challenges.
4. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo)
Having faced decades of armed conflict, the DR Congo remains susceptible to violence due to the activities of various rebel groups and pervasive corruption.
5. Yemen
Yemen’s protracted civil war has resulted in one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world. The external intervention and internal divisions heighten the nation’s challenges to peace and stability.
6. Afghanistan
After decades of conflict, Afghanistan remains a nation struggling with the consequences of war, political instability, and economic hardship, which continue to undermine peace.
7. Syria
Syria has experienced more than a decade of civil war, which has left the country in ruins. Ongoing violence and the presence of foreign forces complicate any prospects for peace.
8. South Sudan
As the world’s youngest nation, South Sudan is still coping with the effects of civil war, ethnic tensions, and governance challenges that hinder its quest for peace.
9. Israel
The long-standing conflict between Israel and Palestine continues to create an environment of uncertainty, with acts of violence and political upheaval often dominating the headlines.
10. Mali
Mali faces ongoing violence from militant groups along with political instability, complicating its efforts to stabilize the nation and restore peace.
11. Myanmar
Following the military coup in 2021, Myanmar has descended into chaos, with protests, violence, and civil disobedience marking everyday life.
12. Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso is battling increasing attacks from jihadist groups, leading to a deterioration of security and instability among its communities.
13. Somalia
Somalia continues to grapple with insecurity, largely due to the al-Shabab terrorist group, which conducts attacks despite ongoing efforts to restore order.
14. Central African Republic (CAR)
The CAR has seen significant violence due to clashes between armed groups and government forces, continuing a cycle of unrest.
15. North Korea
North Korea remains isolated and militarized, with ongoing threats to regional peace, particularly concerning its nuclear program.
16. Nigeria
In Nigeria, the combination of ethnic tensions, insurgencies, and political strife presents significant barriers to achieving lasting peace.
17. Iraq
Still recovering from years of war and instability, Iraq contends with sectarian tensions and a weakened political structure.
18. Turkey
Turkey faces various challenges, including political repression, ethnic strife, and ongoing tensions related to its domestic and foreign policies.
19. Palestine
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict continues to lead to significant unrest and violence, leaving the quest for peace elusive for both parties.
20. Pakistan
With historical tensions and internal conflicts, Pakistan also faces challenges from both political instability and terrorism.
21. Niger
Niger is facing a rising tide of violence related to terrorism and political vulnerabilities, which impacts its overall stability.
22. Iran
With ongoing tensions in both domestic and international arenas, Iran remains a significant point of contention within the Middle East.
23. Haiti
Haiti struggles with political instability, gang violence, and a chronic humanitarian crisis, hampered by a lack of effective governance.
24. Colombia
Despite a peace agreement with FARC, Colombia faces ongoing issues with drug trafficking and violence that continue to threaten security.
25. Venezuela
Venezuela is experiencing severe economic instability, political unrest, and a rise in violence, further complicating its quest for peace.
26. Ethiopia
Ethiopia has seen conflict escalate in recent years, notably in the Tigray region, leading to widespread displacement and human rights violations.
27. Cameroon
Ongoing conflict in anglophone regions has resulted in violence and instability within a country that already faced many challenges.
28. Lebanon
Lebanon grapples with political paralysis, economic turmoil, and the impacts of regional conflicts, further complicating its path to peace.
29. Mexico
Violent drug cartels and organized crime have significantly increased insecurity within Mexico, posing challenges to both its citizens and governance.
30. Chad
Chad is experiencing political instability and conflict, which hampers its efforts to maintain national and regional peace.
The challenges these nations face don’t exist in isolation. Global attention and concerted efforts will be crucial to fostering dialogue and paving the way for lasting peace in these tumultuous regions. Understanding the complexities of each situation is essential for the international community to collaborate for a more peaceful world.