Favela in Brazil

What Is the Most Dangerous Country in the World in 2024

In 2024, safety and security are major concerns for many, especially when looking at some of the worldโ€™s most dangerous countries. It can be eye-opening to explore the factors that make certain places riskier than others and understand how global conflicts and struggles shape our world today.

While it is known thatย Yemenย is the most dangerous country in the world, there are other countries whose struggles must be highlighted.

So, let’s take a closer look at the top 20 most dangerous countries in 2024, according to the Global Peace Index (GPI), and explore what makes these nations struggle for peace.

How We Made the List?

As I mentioned before, one of our main resources was GPI, as well as other statistics that are available from reputable sources. The Global Peace Index is a comprehensive measure used to rank the peacefulness of countries across the globe.

It looks at over 160 countries, factoring in everything from ongoing domestic conflicts to societal safety.

Think of it as a report card for each countryโ€™s overall safetyโ€”lower scores mean more peace, while higher scores indicate more turmoil. The GPI digs into:

  • Ongoing Conflicts: How are countries affected by internal and external wars?
  • Societal Safety and Security: What’s life like for people day-to-day? This includes crime rates and any threat of violent incidents.
  • Militarization: A look at military spending and the sheer number of weapons.

Each year, the GPI highlights which nations are having the toughest time maintaining safety. Letโ€™s jump into the list.

A Quick Look

Country GPI Score
20. Haiti 2.923
19. Nigeria 2.950
18. Venezuela 2.964
17. Pakistan 2.973
16. Libya 2.981
15. Burkina Faso 3.007
14. Central African Republic (CAR) 3.009
13. Iraq 3.045
12. North Korea 3.055
11. Somalia 3.091
10. Mali 3.095
9. Israel 3.115
8. Syria 3.173
7. Russia 3.249
6. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) 3.264
5. Ukraine 3.280
4. Afghanistan 3.294
3. South Sudan 3.324
2. Sudan 3.327
1. Yemen 3.397

20. Haiti

Drone view of the Haiti
Source: YouTube/Screenshot, Port-au-Prince is ran by gang

Haiti is the lowest-rated country on our list, with a GPI score of 2.923. Haiti faces political turmoil, natural disasters, and a deteriorating security environment dominated by gang violence, which makes life incredibly tough for many Haitians.

Surge in Homicides and Injuries in 2024

In the first quarter of 2024, overย 2,500ย individuals were reported killed or injured due to escalating gang violence, marking aย 53% increase from the previous quarter Reuters reports.

Record Displacement Due to Gang Violence

According to the United Nations Haiti, as of June 2024, escalating gang violence and political instability have forced a recordย 578,074ย people from their homes, making Haiti the country with the largest number of displacements due to crime-related violence.

High Rate of Sexual Violence

United Nations Haiti also reportsย that sexual violence continues to be used as a weapon by gangs to terrorize and inflict harm on the population, especially women and girls.

Increasing Control of Capital by Gangs

According to AP News, gangs have taken control ofย 85% of Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti, significantly impacting the security and daily life of its residents.

19. Nigeria

Nigeria, with a score of 2.950, faces threats from groups like Boko Haram and violence stemming from land disputes and ethnic tensions. Kidnappings, attacks, and insecurity continue to plague several regions.

High Crime Index Ranking

Business Day reportedย that in 2024, Nigeria recorded a crime index ofย 66.2, indicating a high prevalence of various criminal activities, including insurgency, cybercrime, kidnappings, and communal clashes.

Persistent Terrorism Threat

Nigeria remains among the top countries affected by terrorism, with a Global Terrorism Index score ofย 7.58 in 2023, reflecting ongoing security concerns, as per Trading Economics.

Significant Number of Kidnappings and Killings

According to Leadership, between January and September 2024, Nigeria documentedย 1,712ย cases of kidnapping andย 1,463 killings, underscoring the severe security challenges faced by the nation.

High Risk of Mass Murder

Between 2017 and 2024, Nigeria exhibited a high risk of mass murder, highlighting the persistent threat of large-scale violence within the country, as per Statista. Speaking of which, check which city in United States commits highest murder rate.

18. Venezuela

Guy carrying Venezuela flag on a pole during riots
Despite recent elections, Venezuela is still far from stable country

Venezuelaโ€™s GPI score of 2.964 highlights severe economic crises, hyperinflation, and political instability. Violent crime is rampant, making it one of the most unsafe places in Latin America.

Significant Decline in Crime Rates

Insight Crime reportedย that government officials announced aย 25.1% reductionย in crime indicators compared to 2023, attributing the decline to reconfigurations in the country’s underworld rather than effective state interventions.

High Crime Index in Major Cities

Cities like Porlamar have a crime index ofย 88.48ย and a safety index ofย 11.52, indicating a high prevalence of crime and low safety levels, as per Travel Safe Abroad.

Travel Advisories Due to Safety Concerns

According to World Population Review, the U.S. Department of State has issued aย Level 4 travel advisoryย for Venezuela, indicating that it is unsafe to travel to the country due to high crime rates, including violent crimes such as homicide, armed robbery, kidnapping, and carjacking.

Political Violence and Human Rights Violations

Following the July 28, 2024, presidential elections, there was a significant increase in political violence, with 25 deaths reported during protests against the election results, Le Monde reported. Also, feel free to check the most famous protests in the United States.

17. Pakistan

Capital of Pakistan, aerial view
Source: YouTube/Screenshot, The country still faces serious terrorism problems

Pakistan (GPI score 2.973) struggles with terrorism, political challenges, and regional tensions, particularly near the borders with Afghanistan and India. Violence often erupts, adding instability to everyday life.

Surge in Terrorist Attacks

In 2024, Pakistan experienced aย 90% increaseย in violent incidents compared to earlier in the year, resulting inย 722 fatalitiesย andย 615 injuries, as per MENAFN.

High Terrorism-Related Fatalities

The South Asia Terrorism Portal reportedย 1,920ย terrorism-related fatalities in Pakistan for 2024, includingย 695ย civilians,ย 560ย security force personnel, andย 636ย terrorists.

Rising Crime Rates in Karachi

Karachi reported approximatelyย 45,000ย street crime incidents in 2024, with nearlyย 100 fatalities resulting from these crimes, indicating a significant increase in urban crime, as per NDTV.

Elevated Crime Index

According to Numbeo’s mid-year 2024 data, Pakistan’s crime index stands atย 43.66.

16. Libya

Libya’s chaos hasn’t calmed down much since the fall of Gaddafi. The country is split between different factions, leading to a fractured state and widespread violence, giving it a GPI score of 2.981.

Prevalence of Organized Crime

Statista reportedย that human trafficking, financial crimes, and non-renewable resource crimes were the most prevalent criminal markets in Libya in 2023, each scoringย 9.5ย out of 10ย on the organized crime index.

Economic Disruptions Due to Oil Production Halts

In August 2024, a political standoff led to the shutdown of oil production and exports in eastern Libya, reducing output by approximatelyย 700,000 barrels per day, Reuters reported.

Humanitarian Concerns Amid Migration Crisis

Libya remains a primary departure point for migrants from the Middle East and Africa aiming to reach Europe. According to AP News, in 2024, aboutย 38,000 migrantsย arrived in Italy and Malta from Libya.

15. Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso president with military
Source: YouTube/Screenshot, State struggles to combat insurgent groups

Burkina Faso (GPI score 3.007) faces escalating violence due to extremist groups linked to al-Qaeda and ISIS. Civilians are often targeted, leading to mass displacement.

Surge in Terrorism-Related Fatalities

ReliefWeb reportedย that in 2023, Burkina Faso recorded aย 68% increaseย in deaths from terrorism, despite aย 17% decreaseย in the number of attacks.

Record-Breaking Fatalities in the Sahel Region

The first half of 2024 sawย 7,620 deathsย due to extremist violence in the Sahel, marking aย 190% increase from the same period in 2021, as per Financial Times.

Extensive Territorial Control by Insurgents

Financial Times also reported that as of mid-2024, insurgent groups control approximatelyย 60%ย of Burkina Faso’s territory, severely undermining state authority and contributing to widespread insecurity.

Escalating Humanitarian Crisis

According to AP News, the ongoing conflict has displaced overย 2 millionย people, withย 60%ย being children. This displacement crisis is among the fastest-growing globally, exacerbating the nation’s humanitarian challenges.

14. Central African Republic (CAR)

@unicefWhatโ€™s happening in the Central African Republic right now? Amid an ongoing crisis, UNICEF is on the ground supporting children with life-saving health, nutrition, protection and water services.โ™ฌ Slow, sentimental and sad piano music.(1233585) – Art Music Style

The CARโ€™s GPI score of 3.009 reflects violence from armed groups and the governmentโ€™s struggle to maintain control. Humanitarian conditions are also extremely challenging for its population.

Escalation of Explosive Device Incidents

In 2023, there wereย 82 incidentsย involving explosive devices, resulting inย 27 fatalities, includingย 19 civilians, UN OCHA reports. This marked aย 15% increaseย in deaths and aย 24% riseย in incidents compared to 2022.

Surge in Sexual Violence Cases

According to AP News, reported cases of sexual violence rose from approximatelyย 9,200ย in 2020 toย 25,500ย in recent years, highlighting a significant increase in gender-based violence.

Severe Child Deprivation

UNICEF identified CAR’s three million children as the world’s most deprived, with nearly 50% lacking access to health services and about 40% suffering from chronic malnutrition, as perย Reuters.

Impact of Sudan Conflict Spillover

AP News notedย that the conflict in neighboring Sudan has exacerbated CAR’s security situation, with overย 10,700ย Sudanese refugees entering CAR and increased rebel activities in border regions.

13. Iraq

Riots in Iraq, intense scene of fire and smoke
Iraq showed instability in many areas, and safety is only one of them

Iraq scores 3.045 on the GPI, showing the long-term impact of conflict. Terrorist attacks and internal instability make it a dangerous place to live, even if some improvement has been seen since earlier years.

Surge in Executions Based on Unfair Trials

Human rights organizations have raised concerns about a surge in executions in Iraq, often based on unfair trials. Reports provided by Middle East Eyeย indicate that the Iraqi government does not provideย official statistics on executions, but the increase is alarming.

High Risk for Journalists

Iraq remains one of the most dangerous places in the world for journalists. According to Reporters Without Borders, Iraq’s ranking in the 2022 World Press Freedom Index wasย 172, indicating significant risks for media personnel.

Travel Advisories Due to Security Risks

The UK Foreign Office has issued advisories against all but essential travel to Iraq, citing significant security risks, including the possibility of detention or worse, as per The Sun.

12. North Korea

Aerial view of Pyongyang, North Korea
Source: YouTube/Screenshot, North Korea is still the most isolated country on the planet

With a score of 3.055, North Korea continues to be a highly militarized and isolated state. Human rights abuses are common, and tensions with other nations due to its nuclear ambitions remain a concern.

Expansion of Missile Production Facilities

Reuters reportsย that satellite imagery analyzed by theย James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studiesย indicates that North Korea is expanding its February 11 plant inย Hamhung, known for producingย Hwasong-11ย solid-fuel ballistic missiles. This expansion includes a new assembly building and housing facilities for workers, suggesting a significant increase in production capacity.

Deployment of North Korean Troops to Russia

Reports provided by the Financial Timesย indicate that North Korea has deployedย over 10,000 troopsย to support Russia in the Ukraine conflict.

Supply of Artillery Systems to Russia

Financial Times also claimsย that North Korea has supplied Russia with long-range rocket and artillery systems, includingย 50 M1989 howitzersย andย 20ย updated 240mm multiple launch rocket systems. These weapons have been moved to Russia’s Kursk region to support military operations.

Potential Deployment of Additional Troops to Ukraine

New York Post reports suggestย that North Korea may be preparing to send up toย 100,000 additional troopsย to assist Russia in the Ukraine conflict. This potential deployment could significantly impact the dynamics of the ongoing war.

11. Somalia

Drone view of the Mogadishu, capital of Somalia
Source: YouTube/Screenshot, Somali Civil War lasts for 15 years now

Somaliaโ€™s GPI score of 3.091 reflects the ongoing threat from Al-Shabaab, political uncertainty, and humanitarian crises. Establishing stable governance remains an uphill battle.

High Crime Index

Somalia’s crime index is reported atย 64.14, indicating a high level of crime, as per Numbeo.

High Intentional Homicide Rate

According to World Bank Data, Somalia’s intentional homicide rate stands atย 6 per 100,000 people, reflecting the prevalence of unlawful killings in the country.

Ongoing Civil Conflict

The Somali Civil War, ongoing since 2009, continues to destabilize the nation. In 2024, various attacks, including bombings and assaults on military bases, have resulted in numerous casualties and widespread insecurity.

10. Mali

Maliโ€™s GPI score of 3.095 shows that violence from jihadist groups and weak government control have kept the nation in constant turmoil. Remote regions often see attacks, making daily life dangerous.

Surge in Fatalities Due to Extremist Violence

In the first half of 2024, fatalities across Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger reached a recordย 7,620 deaths, marking aย 190% increase from the same period in 2021, as per Financial Times. This surge is attributed to escalating jihadist violence in the region.

Record High Security Threats Index

According to The Global Economy, in 2024, Mali’s Security Threats Index reachedย 9.7 out of 10, indicating an extremely high level of security threats. This is a significant increase fromย 9.6ย in 2023 and is well above the world average ofย 4.87.

Major Jihadist Attack in the Capital

On September 17, 2024, al-Qaeda-linked militants attacked multiple locations in Bamako, Mali’s capital, resulting inย over 70 deaths and numerous injuries, The Wall Street Journal reports.

Escalation of Violence in the Sahel Region

Reuters reportedย that the Sahel region, including Mali, has become a global terrorism hotspot following the departure of Western forces. Jihadist groups linked to al-Qaeda and Islamic State have intensified attacks, contributing to the region’s instability.

9. Israel

Israel flag waving on a flag pole
Source: YouTube/Screenshot, Israel is currently in war, which makes situation even worse

With a score of 3.115, Israel’s security situation remains precarious due to conflicts with neighboring regions and internal tensions. Violence has been on the rise, adding to the complexity of everyday life for citizens.

Safety Index Position

The 2024 Safety Index by Numbeoย places Israel at the 26th position globally, indicating moderate safety concerns compared to other nations.

Crime Rate Statistics

Data from Macrotrendsย shows that Israel’s crime rate in 2021 wasย 1.94 per 100,000 people, marking aย 36.19% increaseย from 2020.

Travel Advisories

Due to ongoing conflicts, several countries have issued travel advisories against visiting Israel, citing safety concerns for travelers, as per The Times.

8. Syria

Even though Syriaโ€™s civil war has calmed in intensity since its peak, the country still faces a GPI score of 3.173. The infrastructure is broken, many people live in poverty, and there are ongoing regional conflicts.

Escalating Crime-Related Deaths

Since early 2024,ย nearly 250 people, including children and women, have been killed across Syria due to escalating crime rates, Syriahr reports.

Extensive Humanitarian Needs

In 2024, approximatelyย 16.7 million people in Syria are expected to require humanitarian assistance, marking the largest number since the crisis began in 2011, statistics show.

Significant Civilian Casualties

Between January 2021 and August 2024, there have been numerous civilian deaths in Syria, reflecting the ongoing conflict’s toll on non-combatants, according to Statista. The exact numbers are detailed in reports by organizations monitoring the situation.

Widespread Displacement

According to Commons Library, the Syrian civil war has resulted in the displacement of half the Syrian population, with more thanย 350,000 people killed.

7. Russia

Russian flag in Moscow on a pole, drone shot
Source: YouTube/Screenshot, War between Russia and Ukraine is still ongoing

Russiaโ€™s GPI score of 3.249 reflects the impact of its invasion of Ukraine, international sanctions, and internal dissent. The war has taken a toll not just on Ukraine but also on Russian society, with rising discontent and a strained economy.

Intentional Homicide Rate

In 2021, Russia reported an intentional homicide rate ofย 6.8 per 100,000 people, indicating a persistent issue with violent crime, according to MacroTrends statistics.

Cybercrime Threat Level

University of Oxford researchย shows that Russia tops the list in the 2024 Cybercrime Index, indicating a high level of cybercrime activity originating from the country.

Organized Crime and Illicit Economies

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has led to aย resurgence of organized crime within Russia, reminiscent of the chaotic 1990s, with increased violence and lawlessness, as per The Times.

Safety Index Score

According to Numbeo’s 2024 Safety Index, Russia has a score ofย 60.9, placing itย 51st globally, indicating moderate safety concerns.

6. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

The DRC, with a score of 3.264, is marked by ongoing violence from numerous armed groups. The fight over resources, political instability, and ethnic tensions contribute to unending cycles of violence.

Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)

As of March 2024, the DRC has approximately 7.2 million internally displaced persons, with over 80% of displacements resulting from armed attacks and clashes, as per OCHA.

Child Malnutrition Crisis

Reuters reportsย indicate thatย over 1 million childrenย in the DRC are at risk of acute malnutrition due to escalating violence, particularly in North Kivu, whereย 2.7 million peopleย have been displaced.

Mpox Outbreak

By August 2024, the DRC reportedย 17,342ย suspected andย 3,167ย confirmed cases of mpox, resulting inย 582 deaths, as per LeMonde.

Armed Group Activity

The DRC is contending with over 100 active armed groups, including the M23 and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), leading to widespread violence and instability, AP News reports.

5. Ukraine

Crowd of people in Ukraine after bomb demolished building
Source: YouTube/Screenshot, Right now, Ukraine is the most dangerous place in Europe

Ukraine remains a major hotspot for conflict due to the ongoing war with Russia, which escalated significantly in 2022.

A GPI score of 3.280 reflects the immense cost of war on civilian lives, infrastructure, and regional stability. The impact of this war has been felt not only within Ukraine but across Europe.

Civilian Casualties Reach Alarming Levels

In March 2024, the United Nations recorded a sharp increase in civilian casualties in Ukraine, with at leastย 604 verified incidents, marking aย 20% rise compared to February, Reuters reports.

Notably,ย 57 childrenย were killed or injured during this period, doubling the figure from the previous month.

Surge in Displacement Amid Escalating Conflict

According to UNFPA, as of September 2024, approximatelyย 6.7 million peopleย have fled Ukraine, withย 93%ย seeking refuge in European Union countries.

Additionally,ย 3.7 million individualsย remain internally displaced due to ongoing hostilities.

Intensified Attacks on Civilian Infrastructure

In August 2024, Russia launched one of its fiercestย missile and drone attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure, targeting energy systems ahead of winter, AP News indicates.

The assault involved a variety of drones and missiles, including Iranian-made Shaheds and cruise missiles, leading to significant damage and civilian casualties.

4. Afghanistan

Afghanistan police in cars
Source: YouTube/Screenshot, Afghanistan is under Taliban’s control

Afghanistanโ€™s GPI score of 3.294 highlights the ongoing struggle since the Taliban regained control in 2021.

The presence of militant groups makes life dangerous for many, with uncertainty looming over women’s rights, economic stability, and overall safety.

High Risk of Mass Killing

The Early Warning Project’s 2023โ€“24 assessmentย estimates aย 6.5% chanceย of a new mass killing occurring in Afghanistan, ranking it the highest-risk country among 166 nations.

Deterioration of Press Freedom

Since the Taliban’s takeover in 2021, journalists in Afghanistan have faced severe restrictions, Reuters reports. Taliban have arbitrarilyย detained journalists 256 times, significantly undermining press freedom.

Severe Humanitarian Crisis

As of mid-2023, approximatelyย 28 million Afghans, nearly two-thirds of the population, required humanitarian aid, with 14.7 million needing assistance for basic survival, according to Human Rights Watch.

Ongoing Terrorist Activities

Despite the Taliban’s control, Afghanistan continues to harbor terrorist groups.

Reports by The Scottish Sunย indicate thatย Hamza bin Laden, son of Osama bin Laden, is actively involved in al-Qaeda’s resurgence, collaborating withย ISISย and theย Talibanย within Afghanistan, which has become a hub for various terrorist organizations.

3. South Sudan

 

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Since gaining independence in 2011, South Sudan has faced constant challenges.

Ethnic clashes and power struggles have made it one of the deadliest places to live, with a GPI score of 3.324. Humanitarian needs are widespread, and the people face dire food shortages.

High Civilian Casualties Due to Violence

According to ReliefWeb, between April and June 2024, the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) documentedย 317 incidentsย affecting at leastย 1,062 civilians, includingย 442ย killed,ย 297ย injured,ย 197ย abducted, andย 126ย subjected to sexual violence.

Escalation of Gender-Based Violence

In Unity State,ย 77%ย of gender-based violence (GBV) incidents involved rape or gang rape, with the remainingย 23% comprising unlawful killings, beatings, and forced nudity, as per Global Protection Cluster. From January to May 2024,ย 43%ย of respondents reported GBV in their communities.

Surge in Refugee Influx from Sudan

As of September 2024, overย 821,300 peopleย have crossed into South Sudan from Sudan since the conflict began in April 2023, averaging betweenย 600ย andย 700 daily arrivals, OCHA reports.

Severe Economic Crisis Impacting Public Services

According to The Wall Street Journal, South Sudan’s economic crisis has led to unpaid civil servants and soldiers, resulting in strikes and increased crime. The government has imposedย heavy taxesย on international aid trucks and UN vehicles, significantly raising operational costs for humanitarian efforts.

2. Sudan

People walking out of UNHCR camp in Sudan
Source: YouTube/Screenshot, Sudan is in the middle of worldโ€™s biggest displacement crisis

Sudanโ€™s GPI score of 3.327 tells the story of a country that canโ€™t seem to find a peaceful balance. Political instability, regional conflicts, and economic struggles all contribute to a fragile state.

The recent power struggles have only worsened an already difficult situation, and the country remains on the brink of collapse.

Over 14 Million People Displaced Due to Conflict

The war in Sudan has displaced more thanย 14 million individuals, accounting for approximatelyย 30% of the population, as per AP News reports.

This includesย 11 millionย internally displaced persons andย 3.1 million refugeesย in neighboring countries.

Estimated 61,000 Deaths in Khartoum State Alone

Research by Reutersย indicates that overย 61,000 peopleย have died in Khartoum State during the firstย 14 months of the conflict, suggesting that the actual death toll nationwide may be significantly higher than recorded.

Widespread Sexual Violence Affecting Victims Aged 8 to 75

Reuters reportsย that theย Rapid Support Forcesย (RSF) and allied militias have committed extensive sexual violence, with victims ranging fromย 8 to 75 years old. These acts have been used as tools of terror and punishment during the conflict.

1. Yemen – Most Dangerous Country in the World

Destroyed building in Yemen
Source: YouTube/Screenshot, Yemen is in civil war far almost a decade

Yemen’s troubles seem endless, and it’s heartbreaking to see how much people are suffering there. Since the civil war began in 2015, countless lives have been lost, and millions are at risk of starvation.

The GPI score of 3.397 reflects the chaos of a complex conflict, with multiple factionsโ€”like the Houthi rebels and the governmentโ€”adding to the uncertainty.

The humanitarian crisis remains one of the worst in the world, making Yemen the most dangerous place in 2024.

Over 80% of the Population in Need of Humanitarian Assistance

World Population Review statisticsย show that more thanย 80% of Yemen’s population, approximatelyย 24 million people, are in desperate need of humanitarian assistance due to prolonged conflict and economic collapse.

17.6 Million People at Risk of Severe Hunger

NRC reportsย that as of early 2024,ย 17.6 million Yemenis, includingย 5 million malnourished childrenย andย 2.7 million pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, are at risk of severe hunger.

4.5 Million People Displaced by Conflict

NRC also reported that the ongoing conflict has displacedย 4.5 million people, accounting forย 14% of Yemen’s population. Many have been displaced multiple times, withย 80%ย being women and children.

Yemen’s GDP Projected to Contract by 1% in 2024

The World Bank projectsย that Yemen’s GDP willย contract by 1%ย in 2024, following aย 2% declineย in 2023. This economic downturn has exacerbated poverty and food insecurity, with overย 60%ย of the population now facing food shortages.

Regional Hotspots

  • Middle East and North Africa (MENA): The region remains volatile, with countries like Yemen and Syria unable to recover from prolonged wars. Libya also struggles without a unified government.
  • Sub-Saharan Africa: This region includes some of the most dangerous countries due to internal conflicts, weak governments, and extremist groupsโ€”think South Sudan, Mali, and Burkina Faso.
  • Asia: Afghanistan and Pakistan have struggled with instability for years, with little progress towards peace.
  • Europe: Ukraineโ€™s war with Russia has brought intense violence and suffering to the region, affecting millions of people.
  • Latin America and the Caribbean: Venezuela and Haiti are grappling with their respective issues of economic collapse and rampant crime, making them dangerous places to live.
Infographic of most dangerous countries in the world
2024 has been a tough year for mankind

How Dangerous Countries Affect Their Citizens

City burning in fire during war
Source: YouTube/Screenshot, Violent conflict are creating more refugees

Displacement

Conflicts in Yemen, Syria, and the DRC have led millions to flee their homes. Refugees face tough choices, often ending up in unsafe refugee camps or risking perilous journeys for a chance at safety.

Human Rights Issues

In many of these countries, human rights abuses are widespread. North Korea, for example, is notorious for its strict government control and systematic violations of individual freedoms, while Afghanistan has restricted women’s rights significantly.

Economic Struggles

People in these countries often struggle to earn a living or even access basic necessities. The economic challenges in Haiti and Libya, for instance, make it difficult for families to meet their daily needs.

Global Implications

Instability in these countries affects not just their own citizens but also has broader global consequences. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has had far-reaching effects, particularly on energy and food supplies across Europe.

Similarly, humanitarian crises in countries like Sudan and the DRC have required significant international aid. Migration remains a significant issue as well. People escaping dangerous regions often seek refuge in neighboring countries, creating additional challenges for those areas.

Final Thoughts

Looking at the worldโ€™s most dangerous countries can be overwhelming. However, by shining a light on these challenges, we acknowledge the need for action and compassion.

The road to peace and stability is long, but awareness is the first step. Here’s hoping that by 2025, fewer countries will appear on this list, and more people will have the opportunity to live in safety and dignity.

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  • statista.com – The Syrian Civil War – Statistics & facts
  • commonslibrary.parliament.uk – The Syrian civil war: Timeline and statistics
  • macrotrends.net – Russia Crime Rate & Statistics 1990-2024
  • ox.ac.uk – World-first โ€œCybercrime Indexโ€ ranks countries by cybercrime threat level
  • thetimes.com – Car bombs, lawlessness and psychic healers: Russia revisits wild 1990s
  • unocha.org – Democratic Republic of the Congo: Internally displaced persons and returnees, March 2024
  • reuters.com – Intensifying Congo conflict puts 1 mln children at risk of acute malnutrition
  • lemonde.fr – DRC authorities update response to rapidly evolving mpox epidemic
  • apnews.com – Islamic State group-allied militants kill dozens in eastern Congo
  • reuters.com – UN records sharp rise in civilian deaths, injuries in Ukraine in March
  • unfpa.org – Ukraine Situation Report #25 – November 2024
  • apnews.com – Russia launches one of its fiercest missile and drone attacks at Ukraineโ€™s infrastructure
  • earlywarningproject.ushmm.org – Afghanistan 2023-24 Statistical Risk Assessment for Mass Killing
  • reuters.com – UN says Taliban detained journalists over 250 times in Afghanistan since takeover
  • hrw.org – Afghanistan Events of 2023
  • thescottishsun.co.uk – Osama Bin Ladenโ€™s son dubbed โ€˜Crown Prince of Terrorโ€™ rises through the ranks to โ€˜become al-Qaeda boss to avenge fatherโ€™
  • reliefweb.int – UNMISS Brief on violence affecting civilians (April – June 2024)
  • globalprotectioncluster.org – SOUTH SUDAN Protection Analysis Update
  • unocha.org – South Sudan: Humanitarian Snapshot (September 2024)
  • wsj.com – South Sudanโ€™s Economic Crisis Is So Bad Itโ€™s Taxing Its Only Lifeline
  • apnews.com – War in Sudan has displaced over 14 million, or about 30% of the population, UN says
  • reuters.com – Sudan war deaths are likely much higher than recorded, researchers say
  • worldpopulationreview.com – Most Dangerous Countries in the World 2024
  • nrc.no – Nine things to know after nine years of crisis in Yemen
  • worldbank.org – Yemen Faces Mounting Economic Challenges as Conflict Continues, Regional Tensions Escalate

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