The Surprising Latin American Nation Outshining European Powers in Safety
In a world where security continues to make headlines, safety has become an essential criterion for those who travel or consider moving. Beyond the tourist postcards, the peace of mind offered by a country can be a powerful magnet. A recent report has placed a Latin American country among the safest in the world, surpassing even well-known European nations.
### The new security benchmark in Latin America
The Global Peace Index, compiled by the Institute for Economics and Peace, surprised the world with its latest results. According to this report, Argentina has positioned itself as the safest country in South America, with a score of 1.855 and ranked 47th worldwide. This places Argentina even above nations traditionally recognized for their stability, such as Uruguay and Chile.
One of the key factors behind this position is the recent peaceful transition of power after the 2023 elections, which marked Javier Milei’s victory. This type of institutional stability has been positively evaluated in the report, in a regional context marked by social and political tensions.
Additionally, the report highlights that Argentina’s security directly influences its international image, strengthening its appeal not only as a tourist destination but also as a place to live.
### Iceland and the global podium: a notable contrast
At the top of the global ranking is Iceland, with a score of 1.112. This Scandinavian country, with a population of just 370,000 people, has maintained its leadership in security for years. Its geographical isolation, the absence of an army, and low crime rates consolidate it as an example to follow.
Though about a third of the population owns firearms, these are mainly used for hunting. Homicides are extremely rare, and robberies are practically nonexistent.
In Europe, countries like Ireland, Austria, Portugal, and Switzerland follow Iceland at the top. However, for a Latin American country like Argentina to approach those levels creates a new framework for analyzing the evolution of peace and security in the region.
### South America under scrutiny: who leads and who raises concerns?
The regional ranking, which includes the 11 South American countries, places Uruguay and Chile as immediate followers of Argentina, with scores of 1.893 and 1.978 respectively. Bolivia and Paraguay also rank relatively well, while Colombia and Venezuela are at the bottom of the list, with scores over 2.8.
This ranking not only evaluates statistical crime data but also factors such as citizen perception, political stability, and participation in internal or external conflicts.
**Highlighted regional table:**
### Security and quality of life: a key link
Beyond tourism, security directly impacts the quality of life of residents. A peaceful environment promotes happiness, attracts foreign investment, and reduces social tensions. Additionally, countries ranking higher on this index tend to offer stronger healthcare systems, increasing confidence among both visitors and citizens.
Perceptions of security can also be a decisive factor for tourists, entrepreneurs, or families seeking new horizons. Argentina, with its recent recognition, could benefit from a new wave of interest from those seeking quality of life without compromising their peace of mind.
In a global scenario where stability seems scarce, a Latin American country leading in regional security is not only encouraging but also revealing. Argentina is showing signs of a profound change that could redefine its international role, and attentive travelers, investors, and citizens will know how to seize this opportunity.
