Countries With The Lowest Crime Rate 2024: Every country on the earth is affected by crime, regardless of its size, political stance, or economics. It has an impact on nearly all countries on the planet. Some governments are putting forth every effort to eliminate crime, and as a result, crime rates in some countries have decreased.
On the other hand, several countries are taking the necessary steps to address these crimes, which can take many forms, including civil and social crime. They all, however, pose a threat to governments and citizens. As a result, all governments should take the necessary steps to ensure that crime does not take over society.
How is Crime Rate Calculated and What Factors Influence It?
The overall crime rate is computed by dividing all recorded crimes by the entire population, then multiplying the result by 100,000. (because crime rate is typically reported as X number of crimes per 100,000 people). The rate of crime varies dramatically from country to country and is influenced by a variety of factors. High levels of poverty and unemployment, for example, tend to exaggerate a country’s crime rate.
On the other hand, strict policing and harsh penalties tend to lower crime rates. There is also a strong link between age and crime, with most crimes, particularly serious crimes, perpetrated by those between the ages of 20 and 30.
Factors That Influences Crime Rates
The causes of crime, and consequently the factors that influence crime rates, have long been a matter of contention. Nobody has been able to determine which factors are the most significant and which are the least important. Surprisingly, crime rates within a single country can change over time.
a. Poverty and the state of the economy: Poverty is frequently blamed for crime. Poverty-stricken areas are frequently associated with high levels of crime. Poverty affects a large number of countries. Some of these countries have extremely high crime rates. Some areas have only a moderate level of crime.
In addition, the sorts of crime perpetrated in various low economies varied dramatically. Crime is linked to high levels of violence in some countries. In some cases, it’s only stealing, while in others, there’s a significant element of organized crime, including drugs, prostitution, and racketeering.
b. Social level of morality: Different communities appear to have varying levels of morality. While some communities cultivate a strong feeling of good and wrong, others have a quite different viewpoint. Not everyone agrees that murder and theft are morally bad. Diverse civilizations appear to have different perspectives on various crimes.
c. Social tolerance of crime: The social tolerance of crime may be a factor influencing the rate of crime. Many cultures have a high level of tolerance, with people not acting as harbingers of bad news. In other communities, even minor infractions are reported by a neighbor. There may be fear of retaliation where a powerful organized crime syndicate exists. Victims and others are terrified of retaliation if they come up.
d. Law enforcement level: A powerful police force, combined with harsh penalties for convictions, may aid in the reduction of crime. The concept that a strong deterrence will reduce crime is at the center of a long-running dispute concerning the death penalty’s effectiveness, albeit there is little evidence to back this up. For minor offenses, some countries amputate limbs. Even if crime is low in these countries, it nevertheless, it still exists.
The strength of law enforcement and the police force have played a powerful role in the stability of society. Similar to the military, police challenge coins are used to instill unity among unit members and to recognize and reward excellent work. That’s why some cities are creating their own police challenge coins program to reward the hard work of policemen and policewomen. Police stations also use these challenge coins to raise the profile of the police department and build camaraderie, which is also a symbol of identity.
e. Population’s Average Age: The age of the population and the rate of crime have a link. People in their teens, 20s, and 30s commit the majority of crimes, particularly in locations where the population is both young and transient. Violence is a young man’s crime. According to some analysts, the United States’ aging population is the key cause for the country’s lower crime rate in recent years.
Top 18 Safest Countries With The Lowest Crime Rate 2024
Below are countries with the lowest crime rates in the world;
1. Switzerland: Because it boasts one of the lowest crime rates in the world, Switzerland is considered one of the safest places to live. There are extremely few robberies or killings in Switzerland since it is divided into 26 regions with various legal authorities.
Another factor is that there are more law enforcement officials patrolling the neighborhood, making it a safer place to live eg For every 100,000 inhabitants in Switzerland, there are 216 police officers on duty, safeguarding peace, harmony, and Tranquility. The main reason for the decreased crime rate is that residents have more money, making robberies less prevalent.
Not only are crime rates low, but half of all crimes are likely to be committed by foreigners.
2. Singapore: While Japan is the silver leader in terms of low crime, Singapore is the gold winner in Asia. Efforts to combat crime have not been hampered by high population rates. Singapore has a low murder rate of 0.3 per 100,000 inhabitants, while robbery and robbery are nearly unheard of.
This places the country as the second safest in the world, ranking second among the top ten countries with the lowest crime rates. Singapore has strict rules that go a long way toward making citizens law-abiding. Many offenses have severe punishments, such as whipping and other torturous punishments. The death penalty is also commonly utilized in this country.
3. Hong Kong: This country is not only famed for its lightning-fast Internet access, but it also has a reputation for having low crime rates. Hong Kong has a homicide rate of 0.2 per 100,000 residents, making it not only one of the safest cities in Asia, but also one of the safest in the world.
One of the most serious crimes you are likely to meet strolling the streets is pocket theft, theft and robbery are nearly non-existent.
4. Bahrain: Some people believe this island country was the Biblical Garden of Eden because it closely resembles the description scholars have for the great garden. This island country also has a very high enforcement force ratio. It’s one of the world’s most densely populated countries, there are 1900 police officers for every 100,000 people.
It’s no surprise that the crime rate is so low. Although there are certain incidences of petty crime, such as purse theft and pocket theft in the country’s oldest districts, violent crime is extremely rare in this country.
5. Luxembourg: This little yet fascinating country has a population of less than 600,000 people and covers an area of about 2589.9 km2. Perhaps this is why it is one of the world’s wealthiest countries per capita. In recent years, it is thought that the crime rate has been nil.
Because the structures are simple to put in place, the state’s tiny size has surely contributed to its safety. Furthermore, according to studies, Luxembourg has one of the highest average wealth levels in the world, as well as one of the highest salary rates.
6. Japan: Weapons, including firearms and swords, are heavily regulated in Japan. A citizen must go through a lengthy application process in order to own a weapon for hunting or sport. In this country, where violent crimes like purposeful murders are rare, perpetrators face harsh penalties, including the death penalty for murder.
With over 200 police officers assigned to help more than 100,000 inhabitants on a daily basis, the homicide rate has remained at 0.4 per 100,000 people.
7. Norway: One of the reasons for Norway’s lower crime rate is that it is an exceptionally chilly country with long winters. According to statistics, Norway has fewer than 30 homicides each year on average. This country also has severe firearms rules, particularly those governing hunting and sporting weapons.
Law enforcement officers also ensure that anyone with a weapon keeps it in a secure location.
8. Iceland: Iceland has simply redefined security and calm, employing only 700 police officers who are not even allowed to carry guns, as they are of no use in such a peaceful country.
9. Denmark: Because of the strict protection provided by their police force, the Danmark citizens enjoy tranquility, peace of mind, and security in their homeland.
There are about 200 cops for every 100,000 people, but there isn’t much crime to begin with. In terms of statistics, the murder rate is less than 0.1 per 100,000 people, which is one of the lowest in the world. It is not in vain that it is regarded as one of the world’s happiest countries.
10. Cyprus: Cyprus is often considered to be one of Europe’s most peaceful nations. Cyprus is a beautiful European island where residents frequently leave their doors unlocked until late at night. It also boasts a relatively low crime rate, which is one of the reasons why tourists keep coming back to the tiny country.
According to estimations, 23 people die as a result of homicide in Cyprus each year. This is a surprisingly low rate for a country with a population of more than a million people.
11. Czech Republic: Crime statistics and rates have decreased in the Czech Republic by 0.72. This nation is ranked as one of the countries with the lowest crime rate because of its social equality and low crime rates.
A fairly stable economy may be found in the Czech Republic. Approximately 1000 euros are earned on a monthly basis on average. Young professionals with a degree from a Czech university have a strong chance of landing a job that pays well. This is why the country is safe.
12. Portugal: One of the reasons Portugal is attracting so much interest from investors and expats is its low crime rate. Property values and the economy are recovering now following a significant economic downturn in 2010. Everyone may enjoy the pleasant temperature, historic cities, picturesque scenery, and some of the best beaches in the world in Europe’s westernmost nation.
It boasts among the lowest rates of crime in the entire globe. According to the 2021 Global Peace Index, Portugal is ranked fourth. As a result, it’s incredibly well-liked by expats who want to be safe abroad. Pickpocketing and muggings account for the majority of crimes in Portugal. You’ll be OK if you use caution in busy places and on public transportation, especially on trams.
In large cities, muggings typically don’t happen outside of specific locations. Find out where you should stay away from in advance to reduce your exposure to any potential threat. Portugal is fairly safe when it comes to more serious crimes, and there is hardly any gang-related activity to note. Also, there is little threat of terrorism in Portugal. Portugal is one of the safest nations in the world, to sum up.
13. Malta: Malta is one of the most popular cities in Europe for expats because of its 300 sunny days a year and advantageous tax system. The island is swamped with tourists and is known for its historic sites and astonishingly clean waters.
It’s helpful to know that English is one of the official languages in this country if you don’t have a burning desire to learn a new tongue. One of the safest places is Malta. Petty crimes like pickpocketing are uncommon in comparison to serious crimes.
But Malta does experience some crime, just like the rest of the world. Studies show that there is a larger chance of a minor crime occurring in a bar or restaurant. Your possessions should always be nearby. Since the license plates in this area begin with the initial K, rented vehicles are simple to spot. Keep in mind that your automobile can be targeted if you leave any valuables on show.
Terrorist attacks have never occurred in Malta. Malta is unlikely to become a target, despite the fact that the island is relatively close to North Africa and the Middle East.
14. New Zealand: According to public opinion, New Zealand is one of the world’s most tranquil countries. Without a doubt, this country is among the safest in the world. Respect is the cornerstone of this society. Drinking while intoxicated is simply not acceptable, and bars usually always ID customers. Like the hobbits from The Lord of the Rings, which was filmed here, the majority of people want a quiet life without misadventures.
In most international conflicts, New Zealand has a low profile and is not regarded as a location where terrorism is likely to take place. Violence in crime is scarce. There aren’t many break-ins and fewer chances of kidnapping in New Zealand. In some regions of large cities, muggers may occasionally strike, but those “risk areas” are simple to avoid.
There is a tiny chance that you will be pickpocketed if you are in Auckland, for instance, where the majority of visitors are likely to be. To ensure your safety, though, a little common sense and caution should be plenty. One of the lowest rates of crime in the world is in New Zealand.
15. Slovenia: Slovenia is a clean country with large, pristine highland regions. Long unnoticed, it has only recently begun to draw interest from all over the world, largely due to the breathtaking beauty but also in part because cheap international travel. Another one of the safest countries in the world, with stunning scenery.
The crime rate in violet has been declining recently. The highest risk is posed by small-time crime, just like in many of the other nations on this list. In tourist areas, there is a risk of pickpockets and bag snatchers. You should be alright if you use caution because they’re still rather uncommon.
You should spend the most of your time outside when visiting Slovenia. In the summer, you can swim in the Adriatic Sea at one of the many kilometres of sand and rock beaches. Skiing and mountain hikes are prominent winter activities.
16. Austria: Austria is one of the lowest crime country in the world, with an intentional homicide rate of 0.61 per 100,000 people. There are 8.795 million people living in the nation. It’s one of the lowest rates in the entire world. Austria is a friendly country and welcomes visitors. Austrians nevertheless tend to live more private lifestyles.
Making friends with locals may be difficult if one does not interact with them frequently, such as at work or at leisure activities. Robbery, assault, and auto theft rates are among the lowest in the developed world, and violent crimes are seldom.
17. Ireland: Nestled in Europe, Ireland stands out as one of the safest countries globally. Incidents of violent crimes and kidnappings are exceptionally rare. While Dublin faces some pickpocketing concerns typical of major European cities, Ireland prioritizes its workforce, boasting a well-funded public healthcare system.
Although Ireland has faced domestic terrorism in the past, it is no longer a prevalent target, given its commitment to a peaceful international order. Strict gun control measures contribute to the overall safety of living in Ireland, with minimal risk of opportunistic crimes.
18. Canada: Holding a prominent spot on the Global Peace Index’s list of safest countries, Canada excels in internal harmony, low crime rates, and political stability.
With robust employment opportunities, accessible healthcare, and effective governance, Canada also boasts a populace renowned for its friendliness. Compared to the United States, Canada maintains a significantly lower crime rate, garnering high levels of safety perception among its citizens, as indicated by an 84% confidence rating in a 2018 Gallup poll.
Conclusion
The countries with the lowest crime rates share some characteristics, such as their levels of prosperity, social welfare, and education. Furthermore, these countries have effective criminal justice systems and governments that have strong bonds with their citizenry.
