Global Peace Index (GPI)
The Global Peace Index (GPI) is the first index to rank countries based on their peacefulness and identify some of the key drivers of peace. The GPI, which ranked 144 countries in 2009, is a composite of 23 qualitative and quantitative indicators from highly respected sources. The indicators are selected and weighted by an international panel of experts and the data is collated and calculated annually by the Economist Intelligence Unit. Both internal and external factors are measured, such as military spending, organized conflict, access to small arms, relations with neighboring countries and respect for human rights, among others. The GPI also incorporates a thorough analysis of correlations between peacefulness and factors such as education levels, prosperity, corruption, and well functioning government.
Through rigorous and innovative research, the GPI suggests and explores new avenues of research on peace. The GPI has been applauded as a groundbreaking study that highlights the basic need to better understand peace if we are to address the many global challenges we face today.
The GPI has been endorsed by eight Nobel Laureates as well as hundreds of government and business leaders and nongovernmental organizations. The GPI has generated unparalleled worldwide attention to the issue of peace with media coverage in over 100 countries and half a billion hits on the GPI website www.visionofhumanity.org.
The Global Peace Index 2009
