Bangladesh drops 33 places in Global Peace Index

Bangladesh has dropped 33 spots to rank 123rd in the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025, marking its lowest position since the index's inception.

The index, published by the Australian-based Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), gave Bangladesh a score of 2.318—significantly worse than last year's rank of 93.

The IEP cited political unrest, mass protests, and increased violence in 2024 as key reasons behind the sharp decline. This year saw nationwide demonstrations demanding the resignation of Sheikh Hasina, who stepped down and left the country in August. Despite the formation of an interim government, tensions continued due to clashes involving opposition groups, student movements, and the military.

The report noted a rise in violence during this period, including allegations of extrajudicial killings and disappearances. The Bangladesh Ministry of Health reported 1,000 deaths in the unrest, while UN estimates put the number at 1,400.

According to the IEP, this year’s global peace level has declined by 0.36 percent—the sharpest drop since World War II. While 74 countries improved their peace scores, Bangladesh experienced the most significant deterioration, with a 13.2 percent drop in its overall score.

Iceland retained its position as the most peaceful country in the world, while countries such as Sudan, Congo, South Sudan, Yemen, and Afghanistan were listed as the least peaceful.