The world’s most troubled countries are grappling with armed conflicts, political instability, violence, and severe humanitarian crises.
Recent assessments from the 2025–2026 Global Peace Index (GPI) highlight nations where ongoing wars, insurgencies, and civil unrest continue to impact millions of lives.
Higher GPI scores indicate less peaceful, more troubled countries.
Here are eight of the world’s most troubled nations:
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- Russia
Russia tops the list due to the recent war in Ukraine and its high level of militarization, which continues to strain international relations and domestic stability. - Ukraine
Ukraine remains devastated by the Russian invasion, with massive casualties, widespread displacement, and battles for territory across the country. - Sudan
A civil war between rival military factions has left Sudan in turmoil, triggering famine and forcing millions to flee their homes. - Democratic Republic of Congo
Eastern DRC continues to face violent conflicts with rebel groups such as M23, leading to atrocities, instability, and displacement. - South Sudan
Ethnic clashes and fragile peace agreements place South Sudan at constant risk of renewed conflict and humanitarian crises. - Syria
Although the civil war has formally ended, Syria remains divided, with airstrikes, insurgencies, and post-war insecurity continuing to threaten civilians. - Yemen
The ongoing Houthi conflict, coupled with blockades, has created one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, including widespread starvation. - Afghanistan
Under Taliban rule, Afghanistan struggles with terrorism, political repression, and economic collapse, leaving millions in dire conditions.
These countries illustrate how war, political instability, and humanitarian challenges can devastate nations, disrupt millions of lives, and strain global peace efforts.