France ranks only 99th out of 163 countries in the 2026 Global Peace Index. This annual ranking assesses the level of peace, security, and stability of states based on 23 indicators. In this edition, France finds itself between Tanzania, ranked just ahead, and Gabon, placed just behind.
This ranking places France far behind the top-ranked countries in Western Europe. The ranking takes into account several areas, including safety and security, ongoing conflicts, and militarization. Crime, internal tensions, exposure to violence, political stability, and the level of involvement in conflicts are all factors in the overall assessment.
Iceland remains the safest country in the world
Iceland retains its top spot in the world rankings for the 19th consecutive year. It is followed by New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia, and Ireland. At the other end of the rankings, Russia appears as the least peaceful country, behind Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ukraine, and Israel.
The report also highlights a global deterioration in peace. The average level of peace declined by 0,7% in one year, marking the twelfth consecutive year of decline. Over the past eighteen years, fifteen have seen a decrease in the level of global peace.
A serious signal for the country's image
For France, this 99th place ranking sends a serious message. The country remains a diplomatic, military, economic, and tourism powerhouse, but its position in this index reflects a diminished perception of internal security and stability. The ranking does not only measure the risk of war; it also incorporates social tensions, violence, public unrest, and indicators related to everyday security.
This position contrasts sharply with that of many higher-ranked European neighbors. France thus appears significantly behind in a ranking where Western and Central Europe nevertheless remains the most peaceful region in the world. The result highlights a discrepancy between the country's international influence and its level of peace as measured by the index.
