Europe is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and peaceful continents in the world, but it also faces problems with crime and violence. Find out which countries are the most dangerous in Europe.

Most tourists associate Europe with beautiful beaches, ancient ruins and pristine cities, as well as freedom, democracy and security. However, this is not entirely true; Europe is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and peaceful continents in the world, but it is not immune to crime and violence. In some countries of the continent, the level of danger is higher than in other countries. 

The most dangerous countries in Europe can be identified using the Global Peace Index (GPI). The GPI is developed by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) and ranks countries from the safest to the most dangerous based on various factors: level of violence, political instability, militarization, etc. The GPI is considered a reliable and accurate indicator that measures the degree of security in a country. It is used by governments, international organizations and businesses to make informed decisions about travel, investment and other activities.

Which countries are the most dangerous in Europe? Read our article for the top 10 most dangerous European countries according to the Global Peace Index.

• 10th place - Bulgaria

The most common form of crime in Bulgaria is carjacking and breaking and entering. Places to avoid are the red light district near the Pliska Hotel and park areas near the Lion's Bridge. In Sunny Beach and other major cities and resorts, tourists are targeted by pickpockets. Do not take valuables to the beach and beware of poorly lit streets. There is also a lot of underground crime in the country, such as drug trafficking and human trafficking, as well as widespread corruption in the government.

The country's place in the world ranking is 140;

Global Peace Index - 1.54;

Homicide rate - 0.99 per 100,000.

• 9th place - Romania

Pickpocketing is widespread in Romania, and the country also has a high level of fraud. Taxi drivers may overcharge tourists, and you should be careful in bars and shops. Romania is one of the poorest countries in Europe and is known for its organized crime groups and corruption. Human trafficking is also a serious problem in Romania. 

The country ranks 133rd in the world ranking; 

Global Peace Index - 1.64;

Homicide rate - 1.46 per 100,000.

• 8th place - North Macedonia 

North Macedonia is known for its political instability and ethnic tensions. Taking into account the protracted political crisis in the Republic of North Macedonia and regular mass protests in the country, it is recommended to refrain from visiting crowded places. 

Rank in the world ranking - 128;

Global Peace Index - 1.7;

Homicide rate - 2.00 per 100,000.

• 7th place - Albania 

The crime rate in Albania is quite high, with property crimes being particularly popular in the country. There are also many organized criminal groups in the country that deal in drugs. Another negative factor is the high level of corruption in Albania.

The country ranks 123rd in the world ranking;

Global Peace Index - 1.76;

Murder rate - 2.12 per 100,000.

• 6th place - Montenegro 

Montenegro took the 6th place in the ranking because the country has a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries on this list. However, it is known for its political instability and organized criminal groups. 

The country is ranked 116th in the world ranking;

Global Peace Index - 1.8;

Homicide rate - 2.87 per 100,000.

• 5th place - Serbia 

Serbia has a low level of street crime, but pickpocketing does occur and tourists are usually the main target. Travelers in Belgrade should always keep their belongings with them and never leave them in plain sight. Difficult economic conditions have led to an increase in organized crime, which is most often associated with violent crime. Serbia also has a high level of corruption. 

The country ranks 112th in the world ranking;

Global Peace Index - 1.83;

Homicide rate - 1.02 per 100,000.

• 4th place - Moldova

Moldova is one of the poorest countries in Europe with a high crime rate. The country has an unresolved conflict with the separatist region of Transnistria. There are also large-scale political protests in Moldova. Public demonstrations and events can lead to violence and mass arrests. Avoid protests and rallies.  Corruption is also a big problem in Moldova.

Rank in the world ranking - 102;

Global Peace Index - 1.88;

Homicide rate - 2.31 per 100,000.

• 3rd place - Cyprus

The most common crime in Cyprus is petty theft: robbery of bags and pockets. Tourists often become victims of these crimes because locals consider them to be much wealthier. There is also a threat of terrorism here, as the country is located next to states in which the war is ongoing. 

The country's place in the world ranking is 97;

Global Peace Index - 1.9;

Homicide rate - 1.24 per 100,000.

• 2nd place - Belarus  

Belarus has a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries, but the country is known for its authoritarian government and lack of press freedom. Also, the security situation in the country is unstable, as Russian troops conduct military operations from Belarus, which increases tensions in the region.

Rank in the world ranking - 48;

Global Peace Index - 2.26;

Global Crime Index - 5.08.

• 1st place - Ukraine

Undoubtedly, one of the most dangerous countries in Europe today is Ukraine. In general, it is a great country to visit and has a lot to offer. However, in February 2022, Ukraine experienced a full-scale military invasion by Russia. Therefore, Ukraine is now a zone of active hostilities. In general, the western part of the country is safer than the eastern part, which was invaded by Russia, but most governments in the world advise their citizens to refrain from traveling to Ukraine if possible.

The country ranks 11th in the world ranking;

Global Peace Index - 2.97;

Global Crime Index - 6.18.

When considering a trip to Europe, be sure to take this list into account. If you are planning a trip to one of the above countries, follow the basic safety rules: be careful, do not walk at night alone and pay attention to the recommendations of the government of your country regarding travel to the selected country.

Israel takes a separate place in 2023

The military conflict between Israel and Hamas is intensifying. On October 7, the terrorist group fired thousands of rockets from Gaza toward Israeli cities, illegally crossed the border, entered Israel, killed hundreds of people and took even more hostages. 

The Israeli army de-occupied the occupied regions and declared war on Hamas - the IDF launches retaliatory rocket attacks on terrorist positions in the Gaza Strip and plans a ground operation. 

Due to the military conflict, Israel has ceased to be one of the safest countries in the world. From now on, the foreign ministries of most countries do not advise their citizens to visit Israel. Countries suggest that citizens reconsider their travels and travel to Israel only if it is absolutely necessary. It is also worth refraining from visiting the occupied Palestinian territories. 

If your government has banned travel to Israel, but you decide to travel to the region anyway, standard travel insurance will be invalid. 

Tel Aviv International Airport, the country's main tourist hub, is open. The Israeli airline El Al says it continues to operate flights according to the schedule and takes all security measures. Air Europa, Iberia, Georgian Airways, Swiss, Israeli Airlines, Flydubai, Ryanair, Virgin Atlantic, and others have not canceled flights either. However, any form of tourism in the current circumstances would be completely inappropriate.  

If your trip cannot be canceled, please follow the following safety rules:

- Refrain from visiting the central and southern regions of the country. 

- Remain vigilant and closely follow the messages of local competent authorities to be fully informed about the situation.

- In the event of a rocket attack, a warning siren will be activated. Be sure to heed such warnings and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Also, if you are in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories, including Gaza, we recommend that you register your presence with your diplomatic mission so that your government can share with you changes in the current situation and organize evacuation in case of emergency.

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Daria Rogova, Head of Insurance at Visit World

To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need travel insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.

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Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:

Travel guide for 200 countries;

Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;

Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);

Medical insurance all over the world.

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