Disclaimer
Please note that even among the top-ranking countries for women's safety, no place is perfect. In every location, crimes still occur. It's essential that wherever you go, you stay alert to potential dangers.
The Ten Safest Countries for Women
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The safest countries for women
Currently, the ten safest countries for women are:
- Denmark
- Switzerland
- Sweden
- Finland
- Luxembourg
- Iceland
- Norway
- Austria
- The Netherlands
- New Zealand
This page will provide further details about each country and address what makes them so safe for women.
All the countries above were ranked by the WPS Index (Women, Peace and Security Index). It came to its conclusion by examining how well each country scores in terms of inclusion, justice, and security for its female population.
The WPS Index is a reputable tool used internationally to help policymakers, researchers, and the general public understand the struggles women face while advocating for positive change.
1. Denmark
What makes Denmark one of the safest countries for women?
Out of 177 countries, Denmark is ranked as the safest for women. It's also the top ranking for racial equity and a contender for the safest countries for LGBTQ+ individuals. But how does it manage to be such a safe place for so many different groups? Some of the reasons include people trusting its government, a strong focus on mental health and a real sense of community. All of this has contributed to its reputation as one of the most peaceful societies in the world, making it an ideal destination for solo female travellers.
Discover Denmark
Denmark is a country in Northern Europe. It's known for its beautiful pastel homes, delicious pastries, and progressive policies. Its capital is Copenhagen, a magnificent city where you can meander along wide canals, take a boat ride and enjoy good food.
2. Switzerland
What makes Switzerland one of the safest countries for women?
With one of the lowest general crime rates in the world, Switzerland is an excellent place for women to live and visit. Its violent crime rate is extremely low, with most of the criminal activity in the country being theft-related. Aside from its low crime rate, Switzerland boasts one of the most efficient public transportation systems in the world. Meaning you can travel between locations, day or night, without compromising your safety.
Discover Switzerland
Switzerland has one of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in the world. With staggering, snowy peaks, the Swiss Alps are a must-visit for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts. After a long hike, enjoy some of the best chocolate and cheese in the world. Switzerland's capital is Bern, a charming city with beautiful homes nestled among lush greenery.
3. Sweden
What makes Sweden one of the safest countries for women?
Sweden is another country with a low crime rate. Most of the crime that occurs is theft-related rather than violent. If you're thinking of living and starting a family in Sweden, then good news - Sweden has one of the best parental leave policies in not just Europe but the world! With 480 days of paid parental leave, split between both parents, it offers a generous maternity and paternity package.
Discover Sweden
Sweden is home to one of the most iconic Pop groups to have ever lived. As the birthplace of ABBA, you can find numerous ABBA-related museums and events. It's another place beloved for its food, as well as its coffee. There's no better way to start your morning than with a Swedish pastry and a strong coffee. Its capital is Stockholm, which is the most famous of the Nordic cities. It's a city buzzing with culture and adventure.
4. Finland
What makes Finland one of the safest countries for women?
Not only is Finland one of the safest countries in the world, but it's also the happiest. For the eighth consecutive year, Finland has ranked as the happiest country. Things like its focus on mental health and community, as well as its beautiful nature, all contribute to it being such a joyful place.
Discover Finland
Finland is known for being an incredibly beautiful location, which helps raise the general well-being of its population. With thriving forests and magnificent lakes, it offers numerous scenic views. It's also a brilliant place to see the Northern Lights, which can be spotted from late August to early April. Helsinki is Finland's capital. It's a coastal city with lovely shore views and plenty of fresh fish to enjoy.
5. Luxembourg
What makes Luxembourg one of the safest countries for women?
Luxembourg has the Ministry of Equality between Women and Men, the only ministry in the EU solely dedicated to gender equality. It focuses on legal equality, including anti-discrimination laws and the prevention of the gender pay gap, with the aim of ensuring that women have the same opportunities as men.
Discover Luxembourg
Luxembourg is a tiny country, the 7th smallest in Europe, but it still has plenty to explore. Discover its historic castles, stunning walkways and quaint cafes and restaurants. Luxembourg is the wealthiest country in the world, according to its GDP per capita. Enjoy the many designer stores and high-end goods available.
6. Iceland
What makes Iceland one of the safest countries for women?
Iceland is the highest-ranking country on the Global Peace Index. The GPI is used to measure a country's general peacefulness, taking into account factors such as fear of violence and political stability. Out of all the countries, Iceland ranks the best. Its small population and low crime rate have helped cement it as the world's most peaceful country.
Discover Iceland
Iceland has a small population of less than 400,000, with most of its residents living in its capital, Reykjavik. Because of this, you'll find lots of landscapes untouched by human infrastructure. Explore incredible displays of nature through Iceland's glaciers and volcanoes and stop for a relaxing swim at the Blue Lagoon.
7. Norway
What makes Norway one of the safest countries for women?
Norway is a brilliant location for women, thanks to its extremely low violent crime rate. It also has the Norwegian Association for Women's Rights, which was founded back in 1884. It focuses on preventing violence against women and promotes educational and financial equality.
Discover Norway
Norway is a Scandinavian country with a rich Viking history. Discover more about its past through the numerous museums located throughout the country. It's another location to see the Northern Lights, with the best times being from late September to early April. The capital of Norway is Oslo, a stunning coastal city with plenty of greenery. It also features several beaches that are perfect for the summer months.
8. Austria
What makes Austria one of the safest countries for women?
One of the steps Austria is taking to ensure it remains a safe haven for women is by improving its urban design. By enhancing its street lighting, creating wider pathways, and making parks more accessible to young girls, it's ensuring public spaces are less androcentric, thereby creating a more inclusive and ergonomic place for all genders.
Discover Austria
Austria is abundant in natural beauty. Renowned for its Alpine scenery, you'll find plenty of villages nestled among the mountains. Its capital city is Vienna, the ninth-largest city in the EU, offering plenty to explore. It's also where most of Austria's improved urban design is taking place, making it the perfect destination for female travellers.
9. The Netherlands
What makes the Netherlands one of the safest countries for women?
One of the reasons the Netherlands ranks among the top 10 safest countries for women is thanks to its robust legal system. Its anti-discrimination laws mean that harassment, whether that's verbal, physical or sexual, will not be tolerated. Depending on the severity of the harassment, perpetrators may be fined or imprisoned, and they will also be required to compensate the victim.
Discover the Netherlands
With its fields of tulips, flowing canals and cycle culture, the Netherlands is an idyllic destination, perfect for relaxing amongst nature. The Netherlands has the highest percentage of cyclists in the world. If you enjoy biking, it's the perfect place for you. Its capital is Amsterdam, while widely known for its party scene, it's also a breathtaking location, with beautiful buildings and plenty of green spaces.
10. New Zealand
What makes New Zealand one of the safest countries for women?
The highest-ranked non-European country for women's safety is Oceania's New Zealand. The country's low crime rate combined with its strong legal system, means that women are protected both in everyday life and in a court of law, with crimes like domestic violence, sexual harassment and marital rape all warranting serious prison time.
Discover New Zealand
New Zealand is another wonderful location for nature lovers. Sheep graze amongst its fields with mountains speckling the distance. Often referred to as the location that founded adventure tourism, if you like an active holiday, New Zealand is the place to be. Challenge yourself to bungee jumping, white water rafting, cave diving and much more. New Zealand's capital is Wellington, a lovely coastal city.
The safest countries for women in other continents
As the list above only mentions countries in Europe and Oceania, the following are the top-ranking countries for women's safety in the other continents, excluding Antarctica.
The least safe countries for women
According to the WPS Index, these are the least safe countries for women, and therefore, careful consideration and planning are necessary if you're thinking about visiting.
- Afghanistan
- Yemen
- Central African Republic
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- South Sudan
- Burundi
- Syrian Arab Republic
- Eswatini
- Somali
- Iraq
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Safest countries for women frequently asked questions
Which countries are safest for women?
According to the MPS Index, the top 10 safest countries for women are:
- Denmark
- Switzerland
- Sweden
- Finland
- Luxembourg
- Iceland
- Norway
- Austria
- The Netherlands
- New Zealand
How to stay safe as a solo female traveller?
Solo travellers have to be cautious when adventuring abroad, and female solo travellers even more so.
Ensuring that you do lots of research on where you'll be staying, including the country, area and accommodation, is a must.
While you're abroad, try to look as confident as possible. Studies show that criminals are more likely to target those they think are meek and unsure.
Other standard advice, such as paying attention and keeping your phone close to you, is also important.
For more tips, check out our solo female traveller guide.