Top 20 Countries with the Lowest Crime Rate

The top countries with the lowest crime rates in the world are Singapore, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Denmark, Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia, etc.

No matter how big, politically aligned, or prosperous a nation is, crime affects all of them. Almost every nation on the earth is impacted by it. Some countries have seen a decline in crime rates due to governments trying to eradicate crime.

Nonetheless, several nations are trying to combat these crimes, including social and civil crimes. 

This is why all governments should join the movement and take the required actions to guarantee that crime does not take over society.

We will look at 20 countries that have distinguished themselves as having the lowest crime rate in 2024. 

How Countries with Lower Crime Rates Are Rated

Rating countries with lower crime rates is done by dividing the total number of crimes reported by the entire population by 100,000; the overall crime rate is then calculated (because the number of crimes per 100,000 persons is how the crime rate is usually reported). 

Many factors impact the crime rate, which varies significantly among nations. A nation’s crime rate, for instance, is often inflated by high unemployment and poverty rates.

However, severe punishments and tight law enforcement usually decrease crime rates. There is a clear correlation between age and criminal activity, as people in their 20s and 30s commit the most significant crimes.

The factors that influence high crime rates in countries are as follows:

• Economic conditions and poverty: 

Poverty is frequently held responsible for criminal activity. High crime rates are frequently linked to impoverished areas. Numerous nations are impacted by poverty. 

There are incredibly high rates of crime in some of these nations. Only high crime rates exist in some places.

Furthermore, there are differences in the kinds of crimes perpetrated in various low-income nations. 

In certain nations, there is a correlation between high levels of violence and crime. Some instances involve only stealing, while others involve organized crime, which includes drug use, prostitution, and prostitution.

• Social Level: 

Social behaviour varies between societies. Some communities form a strong moral sense, whereas others hold entirely different beliefs. 

Everybody does not share the moral wrongness of stealing and murder. Different cultures view various crimes in different ways.

• Acceptance of crime by the public: 

The public’s acceptance of crime may influence crime rates. Most cultures are highly welcoming and don’t treat others like they’re the ones with bad news. 

In some neighbourhoods, neighbours report even minor infractions. 

When there is an organized crime group, there can be a fear of reprisals. People who have been victimized and others fear reprisals if they come forward.

• Law enforcement level:

 A potent police force and severe offender penalties can help lower crime rates. 

The long-running discussion on the efficacy of the death sentence is centred on the theory that tougher deterrence will lower crime, even though data do not sufficiently support this theory. 

Certain nations amputate hands for minor transgressions. Even though there is less crime in these nations, it nevertheless happens.

The police and law enforcement apparatus have significantly impacted the stability of society. Police challenge coins are used, like in the military, to reward and foster unity among members and to recognize and incentivize exceptional achievement. 

To recognize and honour police officers’ dedication, several cities have implemented police challenge coin programs. 

Police departments also use these challenge coins to promote the department and foster friendship, another identifying symbol.

• Average population age:

There is a relationship between crime rates and population age. Individuals in their teens, 20s, and 30s commit most crimes, particularly in young and migratory areas. 

A young person is committing a crime when they use violence. Some studies claim that the ageing population is the primary cause of the recent decline in crime in the United States.

Indications For Countries with Crime Rate

The effectiveness of a nation’s governance and the degree of law and order are indicated by its crime rate. 

Legal solid frameworks and secure economic environments are characteristics of the nations with the lowest crime rates worldwide, and they foster the expansion and prosperity of businesses.

The World Bank ranks the most accessible places to do business in six nations with some of the lowest crime rates worldwide. 

Accordingly, there is a positive association between low crime rates and business friendliness in these nations, among others, New Zealand, Singapore, and Denmark.

Robust governmental infrastructure deters criminal activity and aids in the establishment and operation of enterprises by entrepreneurs. 

These nations offer a safe refuge for investors worldwide because of their peace, stability, and low crime rates.

On the other hand, entrepreneurs frequently relocate their businesses to nations with stable crime rates due to fear of failure and financial loss from high crime rates. 

For instance, foreign investment will decline by $761 million in 2021 in Venezuela, the country with the highest crime rate in the world.

Since these businesses are based there, Singapore, which boasts the lowest crime rate in the world, has drawn over 4,500 US corporations.

Countries with the lowest crime rate

The top countries with the lowest crime rates include Singapore, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Denmark, Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia, Portugal, Austria, Sweden, Jordan, Netherlands, etc.

1. Singapore

When it comes to the lowest crime rate in Asia, Singapore is the clear winner, while Japan is ranked as the silver leader. The high population rates have helped the efforts to curb crime. 

The rate of homicide in Singapore is relatively low, coming in at 0.3 per 100,000 residents, whereas the rate of robbery and robbery is almost nonexistent.

As a result, the nation is ranked second among the top ten countries with the lowest crime rates, making it the second safest country globally. 

To foster law-abiding behavior among its populace, Singapore has enacted stringent regulations. 

Numerous offences carry severe punishments, including the use of whipping and other forms of cruel acts. The application of the death penalty is another widespread practice in this country.

2. Finland

The crime rate in Finland is relatively low, similar to that of other nations in the Scandinavian region. 

In 2021, the local authorities in Finland stated that over 483,000 crimes were committed, with theft, fraud, and traffic offences being the most common. 

3. Iceland

Iceland is one of the countries with one of the lowest criminal activity rates. The city has only 640 police officers despite a population of approximately 347,000. 

This is because the crime rate generally is low across the country. Even though there were only five homicides reported in the year 2020, the country is generally considered to be a safe environment. 

However, crimes of sexual violence are frequently reported. For instance, during the year 2020, there were 143 instances of sexual violence for every 100,000 people registered in the country.

4. Norway

Several factors contribute to Norway’s lower crime rate, including the country’s freezing climate and lengthy winters. 

In Norway, the annual average number of homicides is less than thirty, as indicated by national data. Furthermore, this nation has stringent firearms regulations, notably those about hunting and sports weapons.

It is also the responsibility of law enforcement personnel to guarantee that anyone who possesses a firearm stores it in a safe place.

5. Denmark

The 2021 Global Peace Index places Denmark in the fourth position out of 163 countries, with a score of 1.296, which indicates that the country has a high level of peace, and we rank it in the top 5 on this blog. 

Robbery is the most common type of criminal activity in this country, with a total homicide rate of 55 per 100,000 people being reported. 

The United States News and World Report puts Denmark as the sixth most open country for business, and it is ranked first on the list of European countries for ease of doing business. 

This is because Denmark is generally a safe country.

6. Canada

Canada excels in internal harmony, low crime rates, and political stability, ranking prominent on the list of safest countries on the Global Peace Index.

Not only does Canada have a population that is well-known for its kindness, but it also has a healthy employment market, widely available healthcare, and efficient government. 

A Gallup poll conducted in 2018 found that Canadians have a high degree of confidence in their country’s safety, as demonstrated by an 84% confidence rating. This is compared to the United States, which has a substantially higher crime rate.

7. New Zealand

The Gross National Income (GNI) per capita in New Zealand in 2021 was $45,440, making it a high-income country.

As a result, the country’s high degree of social and security systems provides favourable chances for international tourists, commercial enterprises, and financial investment. 

In a recent announcement, Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT) stated that it intends to construct a data centre in New Zealand with an investment of 180 million dollars.

8. Switzerland 

Switzerland has a reputation for being one of the safest locations to live because it has one of the lowest crime rates in the entire globe. 

Since Switzerland is separated into 26 areas, each of which has its own set of legal authorities, a deficient number of robberies and murders occur in the country.

Another aspect contributing to the neighbourhood’s increased safety is the increased number of law enforcement officers monitoring the area. 216 police personnel are on duty in Switzerland, ensuring peace, harmony, and tranquillity for every 100,000 living there. 

Residents have more money, which results in a lower incidence of robberies, which is the primary explanation for the fall in the crime rate.

It is estimated that foreigners are responsible for fifty per cent of all crimes committed, even though crime rates are meagre.

9. Slovenia

Slovenia is a country in Central Europe with a crime score of 4.29. In the year 2020, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) reported that the country’s homicide rate was 0.5 per 100,000 people. 

This is a hopeful result when compared to the global homicide rate of 5.8 per 100,000 people. Car theft, human trafficking, drug trafficking, and money laundering are some of the most common types of organized crime that are committed in Slovenia.

10. Portugal 

The low crime rate in Portugal is one of the reasons why the country is attracted to such a large number of investors and expats. 

After a dramatic economic collapse in 2010, the economy and property values are starting to rebound. 

In Europe’s westernmost nation, the temperature is excellent, the cities are old, the scenery is attractive, and the beaches are among the best in the world.

Among all the countries in the world, it has one of the lowest crime rates. Portugal is number four on the International Peace Index for the year 2021. 

For this reason, it is prevalent among expats concerned about their safety while living overseas. 

As a whole, the bulk of crimes that occur in Portugal are muggings and pickpocketing. If you exercise caution in crowded areas and ride on public transit, mainly trams, you won’t have any problems.

It is common for muggings to occur outside certain spots in large cities. To minimize your vulnerability to any potential danger, it is vital to learn in advance which areas you should avoid. 

When it comes to more severe crimes, Portugal is relatively safe, and there is barely any movement related to gangs that can be observed. Portugal is also a country that has a low level of terrorist threat. 

11. Austria 

Austria has a low rate of criminal activity, making it one of the safest countries in the world. To maintain a low crime rate, the nation possesses a robust police force and an efficient court system. 

The rise in the number of exports made by small and medium-sized businesses is primarily responsible for the expansion of trade that is taking place in this region. 

Online shopping platforms, such as Amazon, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), are expected to generate more than $550 million in revenue for these companies in the year 2021

12. Sweden

According to the OECD Better Life Index, Sweden boasts an impressive score of 8.6 out of 10 for its level of safety. 

In Sweden, the incidence of organized crime is growing in the run-up to the general election, even though the country is typically peaceful. 

Under its robust economic statistics, it is often regarded as one of the most successful corporations in the entire globe. 

The Swedish government’s industrial strategy is now ecologically friendly and uses energy sources that do not include fossil fuels.

13. Jordan

A low incidence of violent crime characterizes Jordan’s rural areas. 

Interethnic strife or terrorist acts in neighbouring countries, such as Iraq and Syria, can occasionally be the cause of violent incidents. Jordan has a gross national income of 121 billion dollars, making it a prosperous country from an economic standpoint.

14. Netherlands

With a crime score of 4.69, the Netherlands is ranked 18th out of 193 nations. This indicates that the country is resilient against criminal activity. 

Because of this, it is ranked eleventh on the list of countries that are open for business compiled by US News. 

The foundation for this degree is the favourable fiscal environment, straightforward rules, and absence of corruption, security, and transparent government processes.

15. Hungary

Record of Criminal Activity in Hungary: 2.95 Among the top twenty countries with the lowest crime rates, according to a recent discovery

Given that Hungary has a low crime rate and a high ranking on the Human Development Index, it should come as no surprise that the country can attract a significant amount of money from all over the world.

As part of an investment of around $2.2 billion, the BMW Group announced in November 2022 that they would establish a cutting-edge battery assembly plant in Hungary. 

An eight-billion-dollar investment was announced by Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited, a Chinese business that manufactures batteries, in August 2022.

It has been discovered that Japan has a crime index of 2.97, making it one of the top 20 countries with the lowest crime rates.

16. Japan

Japan received a score of 9.2 out of 10 from the International Justice Commission for its structure and safety. 

In addition to having the third largest economy in the world, Japan is also regarded as one of the safest countries to reside in. 

Despite the sluggish economy, it is also a very appealing city from an investment point of view. 

Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ: GOOG) intends to invest 690 million dollars in the community by 2024. 

Additionally, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) has made significant investments in Japan, with some of those investments reaching more than $100 billion as of December 2022.

17. Malta

According to a discovery, Malta’s crime score is 2.98. Under the safety and security criteria developed by the World Justice Project, Malta scored 0.92 out of a possible 1, placing it seventh out of 140 countries worldwide. 

The Maltese government has offered tax exemptions and low rates for establishing and retaining businesses to encourage firms’ growth and capital investment.

18. Egypt

According to a recent discovery, Egypt ranks on the list of the top countries with the lowest crime rates.

It is generally agreed that Egypt is more secure than the United States and the United Kingdom. 

The United States of America and the United Kingdom are ranked lower in terms of security than Egypt, according to a survey conducted by Gallup Law and Order in 2018. 

Egypt can continue to successfully attract substantial sums of cash from businesses worldwide due to its high GDP, low crime rate, and strong investor confidence. 

With signing a deal with the Egyptian government in the final month of 2022, 29 of the most prominent firms worldwide were granted permission to build their headquarters in Egypt.

A total of approximately one billion dollars will be contributed to the nation’s economy by these businesses, including Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT) and Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN).

19. Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan’s criminal record is 3.04 times lower than the average for the top 20 countries with the lowest crime rates in the world.

The resistance score of Uzbekistan against organized crime is 3.79, and the country is located in central Asia and has a low income. 

Even though the nation has been informed of the cause of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, its recovery has increased its gross domestic product to $80.3 billion in 2022.

Amazon allows retailers to conduct business online in Uzbekistan to access the country’s supplier rights.

20. Tajikistan

According to a discovery, Tajikistan’s criminal record is 3.06, making it one of the top 20 countries with the lowest crime rates worldwide.

In the year 2020, the level of murder and homicide in Tajikistan was recorded at 0.91, which represents a decrease of 44.3% compared to the previous decade.

The United States Department of State considers the climate in this country as “unprecedented” in terms of security, particularly in the border region with Afghanistan. 

This is even though that country has one of the lowest crime rates in the world. 

By the end of 2024, the World Bank anticipates that Tajikistan’s economy will have grown by 4.2%, which should affect the elimination of poverty. Tajikistan is a country that is undergoing economic transformation.

Conclusion

This blog post walked you through the 20 countries whose crime statistics show how effective their government is at maintaining law and order. 

Consequently, nations with the lowest crime rates tend to have more robust legal systems and more secure economies, both of which are conducive to the expansion and success of businesses. 

If you have any questions or would like to share this piece to help educate others, please do so. We hope you have gained some new knowledge from reading this.