Jamaica Leads Caribbean on 2026 Global Peace Index With 70th Global Rank

Jamaica has taken the highest position among Caribbean nations in the 2026 Global Peace Index, finishing seventieth out of one hundred and sixty-three countries worldwide and placing third within North America and Central America. The outcome points to ongoing gains in safety and stability across the island.

The annual Global Peace Index is published by the Institute of Economic & Peace and evaluates peacefulness through measures of societal safety and security, domestic and international conflict, and militarization. The report is widely treated as one of the foremost global assessments of peace and stability.

Observers say the ranking could give Jamaica's tourism sector added momentum by supporting its standing as a secure and appealing destination for international visitors. Travel specialists argue the result fits alongside the country's established draw through its beaches, culture, music, and hospitality.

The index notes that global peacefulness still faces major pressures, yet Jamaica ranked above every other Caribbean country, highlighting progress toward a more secure setting for both residents and visitors. During his sectoral debate in Parliament last week, Dr. Horace Chang, Jamaica's Minister of National Security, welcomed the announcement and said that "…this has placed Jamaica on a course to record one of the safest years in modern history."

European countries filled the leading positions on the Institute's indicators. Iceland held first place for the nineteenth year in a row, followed by New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia, and Ireland.