Somalia’s Leap in the Global Peace Index: A Sign of Progress Amidst Challenges:

GOOBJOOG NEWS: Somalia has made a significant stride in the Global Peace Index (GPI) 2025, a notable achievement for a nation long associated with conflict. Previously ranked the 6th least peaceful country in 2022, Somalia has now moved to the 14th least peaceful, securing the 151st position out of 163 countries with a score of 2.983. This improvement, though modest, signals a crucial shift away from being one of the world’s most severe hotspots of insecurity.

What Does This Improvement Mean?

This rise in the rankings holds profound implications for Somalia and its people. First, it serves as a recognition of progress, suggesting that ongoing counter-terrorism campaigns against groups like Al-Shabaab, government reforms, and community-led stabilization efforts are starting to yield tangible results.
Second, it helps to change global perceptions of the nation. Somalia is no longer considered one of the five or six worst-performing countries, a development that could transform its image from a “permanent war zone” to a nation that is struggling but demonstrably improving.
Third, this upward movement can encourage investment. International partners, investors, and aid organizations often look at stability indicators like the GPI before committing long-term resources. The improved ranking could boost their confidence and lead to increased support and funding.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, it offers a sense of hope for citizens. For a population that has endured decades of conflict, this progress on a global stage provides a powerful reminder that peace is not an impossible dream.

Challenges Remain on the Ground

While the GPI shift is a positive development, it doesn’t erase the harsh realities on the ground. Somalia still grapples with a persistent insurgency by Al-Shabaab, weak state institutions, limited government control in many rural areas, and high rates of displacement and humanitarian crises. These issues underscore that the journey to lasting peace is still ongoing and fraught with obstacles.
Building on Positive Peace
The GPI report highlights the importance of Positive Peace—the attitudes, institutions, and structures that create and sustain a stable society. For Somalia, this means building on recent security gains by focusing on long-term reforms.

Key areas include:

* Strengthening local governance and the rule of law to establish a functioning state.

* Expanding education and job opportunities, particularly for youth, to address the root causes of instability.

* Protecting press freedom and improving the flow of reliable information to foster transparency.

* Investing in reconciliation and inclusive politics to heal societal wounds and ensure all communities have a voice.

By transforming military gains into durable social and political reforms, Somalia has an opportunity to move even further up the index in the coming years. This moment is not just a statistical anomaly; it’s a testament to the sacrifices of citizens and security forces, showing that peace is indeed within reach. The challenge now is to build on this momentum, continuing Somalia’s journey from a fragile state toward resilience and hope.