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SafetyScorer

Methodology

How we score countries

The 6 factors, weights and scoring rubric behind every SafetyScorer score for countries, on a 0–100 scale where 100 is safest.

Factors and weights

Each factor is scored from 0 to 100 against the rubric below. The overall score is the weighted average, rounded to a whole number, but never more than the conflict score plus 35.

  1. Violent crime

    25% of score

    Intentional homicide rate (UNODC) and assault risk. 95+: under 1 per 100,000. 80–94: 1–3. 60–79: 3–8. 40–59: 8–20. Below 40: over 20.

  2. Conflict and terrorism

    20% of score

    Armed conflict, terrorism and political unrest (Global Peace Index, Global Terrorism Index, government travel advisories). 90+: no active threat. Below 40: active conflict or do-not-travel advisory for large areas.

  3. Road safety

    20% of score

    Road traffic deaths per 100,000 (WHO). 90+: under 4. 75–89: 4–8. 55–74: 8–15. 35–54: 15–25. Below 35: over 25.

  4. Health risks

    15% of score

    Infectious disease risk (malaria, dengue, water safety) and access to good healthcare for visitors. 90+: low disease risk and excellent care. Below 50: high disease burden or poor access to care.

  5. Natural hazards

    10% of score

    Exposure to earthquakes, cyclones, floods and extreme heat (WorldRiskIndex) and quality of warnings and response. 90+: low exposure or excellent preparedness.

  6. Petty crime and scams

    10% of score

    Pickpocketing, theft and tourist scams. 90+: rare. 60–79: common in tourist areas. Below 50: widespread, including robbery.

Score ceiling: conflict + 35

The overall score can never be more than the conflict and terrorism score plus 35. When conflict is severe, good roads, health care or low crime cannot lift a country above it. For most countries the weighted average is already below the cap, so it changes nothing.

See all countries scores