Portugal is renowned for its rich culture, superb climate, historical significance, and stunning landscapes and beaches. Yet, one of its most commendable attributes is its peacefulness. When compared with other European countries, Portugal consistently ranks as one of the most peaceful nations, a status that is reflective of its stable political environment, low crime rates, and harmonious social fabric.

The Global Peace Index (GPI) is a measure that ranks countries around the world according to their level of peacefulness. The GPI considers various indicators such as levels of violence, conflict, and incarceration rates. Portugal has consistently performed very well in these rankings. In recent years, it has been positioned within the top ten most peaceful countries worldwide, surpassing most of its European counterparts.

Status in Europe

Portugal ranks as the fifth safest European country, just behind Iceland, Denmark, Ireland and Austria. There is only a very small difference in the ranking of the top five. Northern European countries, such as the UK, are a long way down the safety list. Our neighbours, Spain, is ranked as 22. The UK is even further down the list.

Other reports rate Portugal even higher. Portugal is in the top 3 safest countries in the world! Portugal is in the top 3 of the 2020 Global Peace Index, the ranking of the safest countries in the world and is ranked far higher than neighbouring countries such as Spain and France.

This is mainly because the political climate in the country has been stable for years, and crime rates in Portugal are some of the lowest in Europe. Keyboard warriors will be rushing to their computers, but this is constantly what credible and independent research is showing.

Portugal beats Spain and France

The Global Peace index rates World safety. Over the past few years, Portugal has emerged as one of the biggest climbers of the Global Peace Index, moving from the 18th spot it held in 2014 into the top 10. It is a fact that the various organisation have their own way of rating countries, and it does vary from one organisation to another. Whichever one you choose to believe, Portugal always ranks very highly, both within Europe and worldwide.

Police director challenges "perceptions of insecurity"

“We are witnessing a moment of disinformation, fake news, and hybrid threats, which all contribute to this perception of insecurity,” stated Luís Neves, National Director of the Judiciary Police. Neves emphasised that violent crime statistics do not support claims of widespread insecurity. Personally, I couldn’t agree more.

Portugal: friendly and safe

On Facebook, various followers who have previously bought property in Portugal agree that the country deserves its third-place position in the peace index. "In my opinion, Portugal is the leader as a peaceful, friendly and safe country to live in", writes one of them. And another: “I moved from Great Britain to Portugal eight years ago and the people here are so calm and friendly. I love Portugal."

Why does Portugal score so highly?

Despite what you may think, crime rates in Portugal are very low. Opinions vary about the effectiveness of the GNR and PSP, but the relatively low crime rate suggests they get the job done. In terms of homicides in Europe, Portugal is number 29 on the list, that’s very low.

Also, bear in mind that the local population has no problem in sharing information with the police. That elderly lady looking out of her window or sitting at the local café sees a lot. And she has no problem sharing that information with the local police.

The Portuguese people are peaceful and calm. I don’t see the ‘anger’ that is so evident in Northern Europe. I am unsure why Northern European people display so much anger, but the words ‘it’s not fair’ seem to resonate everywhere. Shoplifting in England, sometimes violent, has risen to over 1,000 cases a day. I think that has a lot to do with those people thinking others have what they want, so taking it without payment isn’t a problem. ‘It’s not fair’, they have more than us.

Sadly, this is also seen in endless strikes. This group earns more than we do. Riots are far too common in Northern Europe, and they are frequently getting out of hand, police and bystanders are being attacked, simply as, they don’t agree. Look at the news, and you will see a lot of anger in many groups of people. I don’t see anger in Portuguese people, they are kind and gentle by nature.

Portugal's social cohesion is characterised by a high level of tolerance and inclusivity. The Portuguese people are known for their warm hospitality and community spirit, which fosters an environment of mutual respect and understanding. This cultural disposition towards peaceful coexistence is a significant factor in the country's overall tranquillity.

What do you think?

These are just my opinions, and many will, understandably, dismiss reports and surveys. I would challenge you to look around you. The Portuguese people are friendly and welcoming. People tend to look out for each other. When were you last mugged to steal your phone or wallet on the street? When was your car last stolen or broken into? When was your home last robbed? It does happen, but very rarely. There are certain areas where wealthy expats live that get more attention from local criminals. Some crowded tourist areas also attract unwanted attention. Sad but true

The simple question is, which country would you move to that you think would be safer than Portugal?

That’s quite a challenge!

Author

Resident in Portugal for 50 years, publishing and writing about Portugal since 1977. Privileged to have seen, firsthand, Portugal progress from a dictatorship (1974) into a stable democracy. 

Paul Luckman