As more people continue to move to urban areas around the world, safety is an increasingly important factor when it comes to determining where to live, work, or travel. Using data from the Economist Intelligence Unit's Safe Cities Index (SCI), we identified the ten safest cities in the world for 2023. These cities were assessed based on their digital security, health security, infrastructure, and personal safety, and received a score out of 100.
Topping the list is Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, with a score of 92. Tokyo's comprehensive digital security measures and well-maintained infrastructure make it the safest city in the world. The city's strong public transport network, low crime rate, and cutting-edge digital infrastructure contribute to this high safety score.
The island city-state of Singapore closely follows Tokyo, with a score of 91.5. Known for its clean streets, strict laws, and state-of-the-art infrastructure, Singapore ranks first in infrastructure safety and personal safety. This prosperous city-state is a testament to what strict governance and infrastructure investments can bring in terms of security.
The third safest city in the world is Osaka, also in Japan, with a score of 90.9. Osaka excels in health security, including taking steps to address public health crises and access to health services. Combined with its rich cultural heritage and dynamic city life, Osaka's high safety score makes it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike.
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is the fourth safest city in the world, with a score of 88.0. Known for its artistic heritage, its elaborate canal network, and its cycling culture, Amsterdam also enjoys a high level of safety thanks to its solid infrastructure and effective law enforcement.
Sydney, Australia's largest city, is the fifth safest city in the world with a score of 87.9. From iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House to its beautiful beaches, Sydney offers not only an attractive lifestyle, but also a safe living environment.
Toronto, Canada's most populous city, ranks sixth with a safety score of 87.8. Known for its diversity and dynamic culture, Toronto also guarantees a high level of safety for its residents and visitors through effective urban planning and rigorous social policies.
The capital of the United States, Washington D.C., ranks seventh with a score of 87.6. Home to numerous national monuments and museums, the city offers a safe environment thanks to its numerous security measures, especially in the area of digital security.
Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, is the eighth safest city in the world, with a score of 87.4. Renowned for its design and architecture, Copenhagen's security is reinforced by its solid infrastructure and effective social policies.
The capital of South Korea, Seoul, also scored 87.4 points, making it the ninth safest city in the world. A city where modern skyscrapers, high-tech subways, and pop culture rub shoulders with Buddhist temples, palaces, and street markets, Seoul offers a safe living environment thanks to its security and advanced digital infrastructure.
Melbourne, Australia, rounded out the top 10 with a score of 87.3. Known for its dynamic arts scene, world-class restaurants, and sports culture, Melbourne offers a high level of safety as well as a high standard of living.
In conclusion, these ten cities demonstrate the importance of focusing on various aspects of safety, including health security, digital security, personal security, and infrastructure. They provide a safe environment for their residents and visitors, while maintaining high standards in all of these areas. It is obvious that safety depends not only on the crime rate, but also on the ability to live, work, and travel without undue concern for personal well-being.
It should also be noted that security often goes hand in hand with other aspects of urban life, such as the quality of public services, effective governance, and general living standards. These cities not only excel in safety, but are also often recognized for their high quality of life, cultural richness, and economic vitality.
From the advanced digital infrastructure of Tokyo to the first-rate personal security of Singapore, from the excellent health services of Osaka to the solid physical infrastructure of Amsterdam, these cities set an example for other urban centers around the world. As more of the world's population moves to cities, these examples of safety and security become even more important to consider.
Finally, while this list shows the ten safest cities in the world, it's essential to remember that safety can be subjective and dependent on individual experiences and perceptions. Each city has unique qualities, and what makes a city “safe” can vary greatly from person to person. However, data is a good starting point for understanding some of the safest cities in the world according to Safe Cities.
