Two women savoring the delightful taste of ice cream at a house in Bangkok’s charming Sam Phraeng neighbourhood, captured in a picturesque moment on July 7, 2022. Against this serene backdrop, Thailand has something extra to rejoice about — a noteworthy leap of 11 places in this year’s Global Peace Index. (Photo: Apichart Jinakul)
Indeed, Thailand’s standing in the Global Peace Index (GPI) has experienced an upswing. The latest 2024 GPI report unveiled that Thailand is now ranked as the 75th most peaceful country worldwide, climbing up the ranks from its previous position last year.
The Global Peace Index, an authoritative measure produced by the Institute for Economics & Peace based in Sydney, evaluates 163 countries and territories, covering a staggering 99.7% of the global population. It’s an intricate dance of numbers and insights, meticulously calculating peace using three domains: social safety and security, ongoing domestic and international conflict, and militarisation.
In this elaborate assessment, Thailand found itself comfortably in the middle concerning social safety and security, as well as ongoing conflicts. However, the nation proudly showcased its prowess by securing a spot in the top 20 regarding militarisation — shining for its military capability, technological advancements, and readiness for combat.
While the news spells progress, there’s a juxtaposition to ponder. Within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Thailand still ranks higher only than the Philippines and Myanmar. Neighboring countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Laos, and Cambodia have all secured more peaceful standings. Curiously, Brunei is absent from this peace parade as it wasn’t included in the survey.
Singapore undoubtedly leads the tranquility race within ASEAN, snagging the esteemed fifth spot globally, while Malaysia impressively trails in the 10th position. The shimmering jewel of peace on a global scale continues to be Iceland, whereas Yemen holds the unfortunate title of being the least peaceful nation. The report also sheds light on the Middle East and North Africa as the most dangerous region, home to four of the ten least peaceful countries globally, with Sudan and Yemen topping this grim list.
Poignantly, the GPI report isn’t just a list of rankings; it’s a clarion call. The narrative underscores a world grappling with myriad conflicts. A startling count of 92 countries are embroiled in conflicts beyond their borders, marking the highest tally since the GPI’s inception in 2008. The report illustrates, “The internationalisation of conflict is driven by increased great power competition and the rise of middle-level powers, who are becoming more active in their regions.”
The data invites us to ponder the fragile state of global peace. It compels nations and their citizens to aim for a more harmonious existence. Amidst the sobering statistics, Thailand’s rise in ranks offers a glimmer of hope, a testament to incremental progress in a world often shrouded in turmoil.
It’s heartening to see Thailand make progress, but it’s still disheartening that they rank lower than most of their neighbors. What could be the reason for this?
The military influence probably plays a role. Sure, they’re more capable, but militarization doesn’t always equate to peace. In fact, it often means the opposite.
True, but doesn’t military strength also deter conflicts? It’s a double-edged sword, I guess.
Thailand’s political instability in recent years plays a huge part too. Let’s not forget about the frequent coups.
How can Thailand be more peaceful than the Philippines? I know life in the Philippines and it’s more stable there.
The Philippines deals with armed insurgencies and drug wars, which massively impact its peace index rating. It’s not just about daily life, but overall conflict and security.
Great news for Thailand! But I was hoping to see Myanmar climb a few spots in the ranking too.
Given the current political turmoil in Myanmar, it’s unlikely we’ll see any improvement soon. The situation there is dire.
You’re right. Sad to see such beautiful places marred by conflict.
Myanmar’s human rights issues and ethnic conflicts are huge obstacles. The international community needs to intervene more effectively.
Does anyone else think these peace indexes are subjective? How can peace be quantified accurately?
They use a variety of metrics and data, but of course, no system is perfect. Still, it provides a useful benchmark for comparison and discussion.
It’s definitely a complex measurement, but better to have some data-driven insights than none at all.
It’s interesting that smaller countries like Singapore rank so high. Does size play a role in maintaining peace?
Absolutely. Smaller populations are easier to manage, and often, such countries have more homogeneous communities, which reduces conflict.
That makes sense. It’s probably easier to implement policies and maintain order too.
And let’s not forget about strong economic foundations. Wealthier nations tend to have more resources to ensure stability.
Iceland as the most peaceful country is no surprise. They’ve been at it for years with their policies.
I find it surprising that Brunei wasn’t included in the survey. It’s generally seen as a peaceful nation, isn’t it?
Brunei is indeed peaceful, but it’s complicated. Political and media freedoms are limited, so the perception of peace might be different from on-the-ground reality.
Countries in the Middle East always seem to dominate the least peaceful rankings. Will there ever be a time when that region is more stable?
Unfortunately, with ongoing geopolitical conflicts and power struggles, it feels like it’s a long way off.
Yeah, it’s quite heartbreaking. People there deserve peace and safety just like anywhere else.
International efforts need to be more sincere and directed towards sustainable peace-building rather than short-term political goals.
It’s surprising how far Thailand has come given its history. It used to be quite turbulent.
The fact that there are 92 countries involved in conflicts is terrifying. Are we moving backwards as a global society?
It does feel that way sometimes. Increased competition among great powers and middle-level nations is definitely not helping.
We need more global cooperation instead of competition. That’s the only way forward.
Exactly. But that seems to be easier said than done.
Nice to see Thailand improving, but let’s not overlook the ongoing human rights issues there.
Could economic growth be a key factor for Thailand’s higher ranking?
Economic growth helps, but it’s also about effective governance and community well-being.
Good point. It’s a complex, multifaceted issue.