For travelers seeking a secure and peaceful getaway, Europe often stands out as a preferred destination. But how safe is the continent in reality?
The latest HelloSafe Travel Safety Index sheds light on the security landscape across Europe, offering surprising insights that every traveler should know.
Europe’s safest destinations
According to the HelloSafe Index, Europe remains a stronghold of safety, with 12 of the world’s 15 safest countries located on the continent.
Iceland leads the pack globally with an impressive score of 18.23 out of 100, making it the safest country in the world.
Closely following are Denmark and Austria, each with scores around 20. These countries have low crime rates, stable political climates, and solid health systems—all factors that make them great places to visit.
Switzerland also ranks high, taking the fifth spot globally and reinforcing Europe’s reputation as a region where travelers can feel secure.
Countries like the Netherlands, Finland, and Germany follow suit, each earning scores below 30, which categorizes them as “very safe” destinations.
(Image courtesy of Simon Migaj via Pexels)
France’s surprising safety concerns
While much of Europe is seen as safe, France presents an unexpected contrast.
Ranking 80th globally and 34th in Europe, France has been marked with a safety score of 36 points.
This places it closer to the “safe” category rather than “very safe,” primarily due to the lingering terrorist threats and incidents that have affected the nation in recent years.
Despite its rich cultural heritage and being a top tourist destination, France’s position serves as a reminder that even popular spots can have underlying risks.
In the broader European context, Ukraine and Russia rank as the least safe, heavily impacted by the ongoing conflict since 2022.
Their inclusion in the “dangerous” category reflects the severe security and safety issues that continue to plague these nations.
A guide for travelers and migrants
For short-term visitors, these rankings offer a valuable guide in planning trips, especially with the upcoming launch of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
The ETIAS, set to streamline entry processes for non-EU nationals, will now come with an added layer of scrutiny given the varying safety profiles of European nations.
For instance, travelers might be more inclined to choose destinations like Iceland or Denmark, known for their high safety standards, over countries like France or those affected by conflict.
Long-term migrants to the EU may also find this information crucial as they plan their relocations.
A country’s safety ranking could influence decisions on where to settle, particularly for families or individuals seeking stability.
The HelloSafe Index provides a clear picture, emphasizing the importance of considering safety alongside other factors like job opportunities and lifestyle.
(Image courtesy of Pixabay)
More migrants in safer countries?
The safety rankings may also play a role in shaping immigration policies across Europe.
Countries with higher safety scores might see an increase in demand from migrants seeking a secure environment, while those with lower scores could face challenges in attracting new residents.
This could lead to shifts in immigration strategies, where safer countries might tighten entry requirements to manage the flow of migrants, while others may seek to improve their safety metrics to enhance their appeal.
A final thought
As safety dynamics across Europe continue to evolve, staying informed is key.
The HelloSafe Index does not just highlight the safest places to visit; it also serves as a wake-up call for travelers, migrants, and policymakers to think about both the immediate and long-term impacts of safety on travel and life in Europe.