Sierra Leone has secured an impressive position as the third most peaceful country in Africa and 47th in the world, according to the recently released 2023 Global Peace Index. The West African nation, which recently concluded its presidential election, follows closely behind Mauritius and Botswana, with a score of 1.792 in the annual report that assesses the level of peacefulness across the globe.
The 2023 Global Peace Index evaluated 163 countries and territories, employing three key factors to measure peace: the level of Societal Safety and Security, the extent of Ongoing Domestic and International Conflict, and the degree of Militarization. Sierra Leone’s noteworthy placement reflects its commendable performance in these areas.
Iceland continues to hold the title of the most peaceful country in the world since 2008, while Yemen and Afghanistan rank among the least peaceful nations. Sierra Leone has experienced fluctuating positions in the global peace rankings over the past five years. In 2016, it occupied the 43rd spot, which improved to 39th in 2017 and further climbed to 35th in 2018. However, in 2019, the country faced a slight setback, dropping to the 52nd position. Nevertheless, Sierra Leone regained momentum in 2021, securing the 46th rank before reaching its current position of 47th in 2023.
This remarkable achievement highlights Sierra Leone’s commitment to fostering peace and stability within its borders. The country’s peaceful environment is a result of concerted efforts by the government, civil society, and its citizens to address various challenges and promote social harmony.
Sierra Leone’s continuous improvement in the Global Peace Index demonstrates the effectiveness of its peace building initiatives and the positive impact they have on the country’s overall development. Sustained peace contributes to a conducive environment for economic growth, investment, and the well-being of its people. Moreover, it enhances Sierra Leone’s reputation on the global stage, attracting potential tourists and investors seeking stability and security.
