Good news from Southeast Asia. In the latest edition of the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), Singapore and Malaysia have successfully made it into the top ten most peaceful countries in the world.

Since its inception in 2007, the Global Peace Index (GPI) has been published annually to provide a better understanding of the global peace landscape.

The latest edition, GPI 2024, analyzes the level of peace in 163 countries and regions, representing nearly all of the world's population. The GPI methodology is based on a comprehensive assessment of 23 indicators across three main dimensions: societal security, conflict intensity, and levels of militarization.

Singapore

Singapore, a perennial top performer on the Global Peace Index, secured 5th place globally in 2024. Its significant improvement in the Peace Index, bucking the global trend, is an interesting subject for study.

An analysis of historical data shows that Singapore has seen a significant rise in its ranking since 2008, when it was ranked 22nd. According to the findings of the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), significant improvements in rankings are usually the result of comprehensive improvements in various areas, while declines in rankings are often due to specific factors.

Although Singapore has excelled in indicators of societal security and political stability, its level of militarization remains a limiting factor in achieving a higher ranking.

Singapore's reliance on the maritime sector as the backbone of its economy requires it to devote significant resources to building adequate defense capabilities, including the provision of security personnel and the acquisition of advanced weapon systems.

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Malaysia

Malaysia has achieved an impressive feat by ranking third in the Asia-Pacific region and tenth in the world in the Global Peace Index. This achievement reflects Malaysia's success in maintaining domestic stability and fostering harmonious international relations.

The nine-place leap in one year, along with Malaysia's entry into the top ten for the first time, demonstrates the country's commitment to creating a peaceful and conducive environment for its citizens. Since the inception of the Index in 2008, Malaysia's position has risen dramatically from 32nd place.

Malaysia's rich ethnic and cultural diversity, consisting of Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous communities, has been successfully integrated through government policies that promote tolerance and inclusiveness. This inclusive environment has fostered a sense of unity and reduced the potential for social conflict. In addition, low crime rates and stable economic growth have contributed to a safe and peaceful atmosphere.

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Global Overview: Years of Peace Decline

Overall, the Global Peace Index has declined by 0.56% this year. These data indicate that the trend of declining peace has continued for 12 consecutive years since 2008, with a total decline of 4.5%.

The results of the research confirm the global decline in peace, with the number of countries experiencing setbacks continuing to rise - 97 countries recorded a decline, while only 65 countries showed an improvement.

Globally, Western Europe continues to strengthen its position as the region most conducive to world peace, with seven countries in the top ten most peaceful countries. After Western Europe, Asia-Pacific remains the second most peaceful region, although its overall score declined by 0.1%.

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List of the ten most peaceful countries in 2024:

1. Iceland
2. Ireland
3. Austria
4. New Zealand
5. Singapore
6. Switzerland
7. Portugal
8. Denmark
9. Slovenia
10. Malaysia