Where in Europe can you feel safe in 2025? Find out which countries are considered the most dangerous in Europe in 2025. The Global Peace Index (GPI) ranking shows where the level of violence, conflict and instability is highest, as well as what factors affect security in different regions of the continent

Europe is traditionally perceived as the safest continent in the world. However, even here there are countries where the risks for life, travel or investment are much higher than average. According to the World Population Review resource, which evaluates countries according to the Global Peace Index (GPI), in 2025 the five most dangerous countries in Europe include Ukraine, Russia, Belarus, Cyprus and France.

The GPI takes into account more than 20 indicators, including the level of violence, conflict, political stability, the presence of military operations and the level of crime. The higher the GPI score, the less safe the country is considered.

We will tell you about the level of risk and the degree of security in different countries of Europe in this article.

When planning a trip abroad, be sure to take care of a travel insurance policy that will protect you from unforeseen situations during the trip and compensate for unplanned expenses - for medical treatment, in case of lost luggage, flight cancellation, etc.

What is the GPI?

The Global Peace Index is an international indicator used to measure the level of security and peacefulness in different countries of the world. It is formed by the Institute for Economics and Peace, and the data is published by the World Population Review.

The index is based on 23 qualitative and quantitative criteria: the level of violent crime, relations with neighbors, political stability, the degree of militarization, the presence of terrorist attacks, the number of military personnel and defense spending.

The higher the GPI, the more dangerous the country is considered. For example, Iceland has one of the lowest indices (1.112) and is the most peaceful country in the world, while Ukraine received the highest index in Europe – 3.280.

Top of the most dangerous countries in Europe in 2025

According to the World Population Review, the ten most dangerous countries in Europe in 2025 include:

1st place – Ukraine

- GPI 3.280

Ukraine remains the most dangerous country on the continent due to the full-scale war caused by the Russian invasion. Active hostilities, shelling of civilian infrastructure and threats in the east and south determine a high level of danger. At the same time, the situation is more stable in the western regions of the country.

2nd place – Russia

- GPI 3.249

High militarization, internal repression, participation in wars and confrontational policies have led to one of the highest levels of danger in Europe. Russia remains a source of instability for the entire region.

3rd place – Belarus

- GPI 2.291

Political isolation, repression of the opposition and participation in the war on the side of Russia form a negative security situation. The country has an unstable political system and a high level of authoritarian control.

4th place – Cyprus

- GPI 2.101

Despite its popularity among tourists, Cyprus remains a divided island, part of which is controlled by Turkey. The unresolved issue of the state's division creates political tension, which affects the overall level of security.

5th place - France

- GPI 2.088

High protest activity, periodic terrorist threats and social conflicts reduce stability indicators. Despite this, France remains popular among tourists, but requires compliance with basic security measures.

6th place - Moldova

- GPI 1.976

Geopolitical proximity to Ukraine, internal political confrontations and economic vulnerability affect the security situation. The uncertain status of Transnistria attracts special attention.

7th place - Bosnia and Herzegovina

- GPI 1.961

The country still feels the consequences of ethnic conflicts of the 1990s. The political system remains complex, and interethnic tension is tangible.

8th place – Serbia

- GPI 1.930

Tense relations with Kosovo and political polarization within the country affect its peacefulness. However, the crime rate here is lower than in most Balkan states.

9th place – Albania

- GPI 1.809

Albania is experiencing economic difficulties and problems with organized crime. Despite this, tourist regions remain relatively safe for travel.

10th place – Greece

- GPI 1.793

Despite its tourist appeal, Greece faces economic challenges, protests and cases of street violence. At the same time, the situation in resort regions is calmer.

Is it safe to travel to Ukraine?

Ukraine is a country in active military conflict, and most governments around the world do not recommend tourist trips to regions where hostilities are ongoing. The western part of the country is relatively safe, but trips should be well-planned, taking into account official recommendations. Despite the war, Ukrainians continue to develop their economy, volunteer initiatives, and urban reconstruction, which demonstrates the strength and resilience of society.

Is it safe to visit Turkey?

Turkey is not among the ten most dangerous European countries, but still has an increased level of risk due to political tensions, isolated terrorist attacks, and instability in border areas. Tourists are advised to avoid the southeastern regions and travel in an organized manner, especially in places where migration tensions are felt.

Is it possible to visit Kosovo?

Kosovo remains a potentially dangerous destination due to difficult relations with Serbia and the consequences of the Yugoslav conflicts. Despite the stabilization, there are still areas in the country with a risk of mines and unexploded ordnance. Tourists are advised to visit the country only with local guides and to follow safety recommendations.

Euronews and Eurostat perspective

According to Euronews and Eurostat research, crime rates vary significantly even within the EU. The highest number of reports of violence, vandalism and crime comes from Greece, France, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Spain and Belgium.

In contrast, Croatia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Estonia were recognized as the most peaceful countries - there less than 5% of the population reported crimes in their area.

Europe remains a peaceful and safe continent in general, but individual regions have significant risks due to wars, political instability or social conflicts.

The GPI helps to understand the general situation, but tourists should take into account current recommendations, as well as follow basic safety rules when traveling.

If you find yourself in a difficult situation abroad, seek advice from a migration lawyer. We help to quickly resolve any issues outside your country of origin.

Reminder! Tourist taxes are becoming the new norm for travelers in 2025. We have already told you what a tourist tax is, which countries are introducing it, the size of fees in popular destinations, the reasons for their increase, and much more useful information.

Photo – Freepik

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