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These are the most and least peaceful countries in the world

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PICTURE:
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If you watch the news every day, you'll sadly know the world isn't always a very peaceful place.

From terrorist attacks to violent protests, many countries are experiencing some sort of turmoil. And while many countries are struggling, some have found ways to keep peace, something which Iceland apparently is very good at.

Data from the Global Peace Index reveals that Iceland remains the most peaceful country in the world, while Afghanistan is ranked the most violent.

Iceland's status as the most peaceful country in the world is a position which has been held since 2008. Its crime rate is so incredibly low, with just 18 murders per 100,000 people annually. The Nordic island was followed by New Zealand, Portugal, and Austria.

This is the fifth year in a row, these specific countries are in the top 4 most peaceful in the world.

As for the least peaceful countries, Afghanistan was ranked the lowest, with Syria, South Sudan, and Yemen following closely. All countries have experienced some time of conflict in the last few years. This year is also the first year that has seen Iraq rise to the 5th least peaceful country, a position which was previously a lot lower.

The United Kingdom ranked 45th most peaceful country in the world, and 26th in Europe. Homicides in the country have reached their highest level in a decade this April, as figures show knife crime is up by 6 per cent.

More detailed information can be found in the Global Peace Index report.

More: The best countries in the world, according to the man who's visited them all (on a budget)

More: Here are the safest countries for women – and the UK doesn’t even make the top five

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