In this article, we have listed the 30 countries most impacted by terrorism in the world.
Current research presents an extensive analysis of the prominent global terrorism trends over the past decade. These findings, sourced from comprehensive data, shed light on the factors shaping the global terrorism landscape, yielding the following key observations and conclusions. When calculating which country commits the most terrorism, we found out that one of the most striking trends is the growing lethality of terrorist attacks, with a significant increase of 26%. The observed 9% decrease in terrorism-related deaths can be predominantly attributed to the Taliban’s transition from a terrorist organization to a state actor within Afghanistan. Outside the borders of Afghanistan, terrorism-related fatalities have surged by 4% across the rest of the world.
We would hardly list the countries most impacted by terrorism in the world and define which regions are most affected by terrorism without mentioning the Islamic State, though. For the eighth consecutive year, the Islamic State (IS) and its affiliated groups retained their status as the world’s deadliest terrorist entities, orchestrating attacks in 21 countries. The report highlights an alarming escalation in deaths resulting from attacks by unidentified jihadists, revealing an eight-fold increase compared to 2017. These incidents now constitute 32% of all terrorism-related deaths, soaring to 18 times higher in the Sahel region. The Sahel region emerges as the most significantly impacted area, representing 43% of global terrorism deaths, a 7% increase from the previous year.
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While terrorism incidents have diminished in the Western world, there has been an intensified onslaught of attacks in other regions. Countries from this part of the world are on the list of countries most impacted by terrorism in the world, so it is crucial to define how terrorism affects other countries in those regions. The report suggests a connection between terrorism and regions grappling with poor ecosystems and climate-induced shocks, but poverty doesn’t cause terrorism. However, drone technology is rapidly evolving, with groups such as IS, Boko Haram, and Houthis actively adopting it in their operations.
The global tally of terrorist attacks in 2021 witnessed a notable upswing, reaching 5,226 cases. However, there was a slight reduction of 1.2% in terrorism-related deaths. The ongoing Ukraine conflict is expected to incite an upsurge in both traditional and cyber terrorism, possibly reversing the previous improvements in the region. Terrorism incidents in the Western world recorded a noteworthy reduction, with a 68% decrease in attacks. The United States documented its lowest score since 2012. Sub-Saharan Africa accounted for a significant 48% of global terrorism deaths. The Sahel region is the epicenter of the world’s fastest-growing and most deadly terrorist groups. In a significant turn of events, the Islamic State (IS) overtook the Taliban as the world’s deadliest terrorist organization in 2021, averaging 15 deaths per attack in Niger.
In summation, these trends underscore the evolving nature of terrorism and its shifting impact across different regions, providing invaluable insights for policymakers and security stakeholders.
For listing the countries most impacted by terrorism in the world, we used a trustworthy report made by the Global Terrorism Index for 2023. This is a comprehensive summary of the significant global trends and patterns in terrorism observed over the past decade. The calculation of the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) score considers not just the number of fatalities but also various factors such as the frequency of incidents, the involvement of hostages, and the extent of injuries resulting from acts of terrorism. These components are assessed and weighted over a five-year period to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the terrorism landscape. We used their list as the most accurate for naming the countries most impacted by terrorism in the world.
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30. United States of America
Following the horrific terrorist attacks in New York, Washington, and Pennsylvania, the United States embarked on a global mission, targeting not only the perpetrators of these acts but also the broader menace of terrorism, wherever it may manifest. It is why USA is on the list of countries most impacted by terrorism in the world.
Over nearly two decades following the tragic events of 9/11, there has been only one documented case of a deadly attack inside the United States orchestrated or coordinated by a foreign jihadist terrorist organization. This exceptional instance occurred during the attack at the Naval Air Station Pensacola on December 6, 2019, where Mohammed Al-Shamrani took the lives of three individuals. In the post-9/11 era, jihadists have been responsible for the loss of 107 lives within the United States.
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29. Sri Lanka
Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Sri Lanka. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners such as hotels, tourist sites and places of worship. Avoid crowded public places, large gatherings, and demonstrations, and follow the advice of local authorities. There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets.
28. Benin
It is easy to tell what are the main causes of terrorism in this country. Extremist organizations have been responsible for a series of attacks in specific regions of southern Burkina Faso, southern Niger, and northern Benin. These areas include locations in proximity to Park Pendjari, Park W, and adjacent hunting zones. It’s crucial to be aware that these attacks can transpire suddenly, with minimal or no advance notice. Notably, there have been instances of Western tourists being abducted in Park Pendjari, situated in northern Benin.
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27. Togo
A worldwide heightened terrorist threat poses a significant risk of terrorism. This danger encompasses a range of groups and individuals as potential targets. Consequently, maintaining a constant state of vigilance is paramount to personal safety. Togo’s involvement in the UN peacekeeping mission in Mali (MINUSMA) renders it a potential target for Al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb (AQ-M) and affiliated groups. This underscores the importance of remaining cautious when in Togo.
26. Thailand
Since the outset of 2004, southern Thailand has been embroiled in a mounting cycle of violence. The tension commenced in January 2004, when Thailand imposed martial law on three southern provinces—Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat, collectively referred to as “Patani.” This decision followed a well-coordinated attack on army and police facilities. Subsequent incidents, including the tragic event in October 2004 where approximately 80 Muslim youth were asphyxiated while detained in army trucks, have further deepened divisions and contrasting perspectives on the ongoing conflict.
25. Israel
Terrorist organizations, lone-actor terrorists, and other violent extremists maintain an ongoing threat, actively plotting potential attacks in Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza. These perpetrators may strike with minimal or no advance notice, directing their focus towards tourist destinations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, as well as local government facilities. Staying alert and informed is paramount to ensuring personal safety in this dynamic environment.
24. Indonesia
Over the recent decades, Indonesia has grappled with significant terrorist threats, confronting substantial challenges while also demonstrating remarkable strides in combating them. Notably, a shift has occurred in the tactics employed by terrorist groups in Indonesia, with a growing emphasis on targeting “soft” targets. This transformation was painfully evident in the Bali bombings of 2002 and 2005, where restaurants popular among Westerners fell victim to these attacks. Furthermore, the alarming events of July 2009, which witnessed bombings at the J.W. Marriott and Ritz-Carlton hotels in Jakarta, resulted in the tragic loss of 29 lives and left 150 people injured.
23. Turkey
In 2016, Turkey found itself reeling from a string of devastating terror attacks. The culprits included the self-proclaimed Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL), the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), and the Kurdistan Freedom Hawks (TAK), a splinter group within the PKK. As the year came to a close, people around the world, including Turks, were fervently celebrating, holding onto the hope that 2017 would bring better days. However, that optimism was brutally shattered in the early hours of the New Year. An assailant affiliated with ISIL launched an attack on a prestigious nightclub situated on the Bosphorus, claiming the lives of 39 Turkish citizens and foreign visitors, while injuring 65 others.
22. Yemen
In 2019, Yemen witnessed a stark increase in terrorism-related fatalities, with the death toll reaching 555. This marked a 31 percent surge compared to the previous year, 2018. Furthermore, Yemen experienced a staggering 67 percent rise in the overall number of terrorist attacks, primarily attributed to increased violence perpetrated by Ansar Allah. Although terrorism saw a significant uptick in 2019, it’s important to note that fatalities have decreased by 66 percent when compared to their peak in 2015.
21. Iran
The Islamic regime in Iran has gained the notorious distinction of being the foremost state sponsor of terrorism globally. Over a span of more than 40 years, their detrimental conduct and backing of terrorist proxies have extended their influence throughout the region. The introduction of the JCPOA, colloquially known as the “2015 Iran Nuclear Deal,” injected additional resources and funds into the regime’s coffers, thereby intensifying the scope and aggression of their malign activities.
20. Kenya
Exercise increased vigilance when in Kenya due to the presence of crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Incidents of violent crime, such as armed carjackings, muggings, home invasions, and kidnappings, are a possibility at any time. Terrorist attacks have taken place with little or no warning, targeting both Kenyan and foreign government facilities, tourist destinations, transportation hubs, hotels, resorts, markets, shopping malls, and places of worship. Protests and demonstrations may arise, leading to road closures and causing extensive traffic congestion.
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19. Chad
In 2021, Chadian President Déby tragically lost his life during a military engagement with rebel forces. Chad has persistently faced terrorist threats in areas bordering population centers around Lake Chad. However, in 2021, there were only two recorded attacks on military and civilian targets, both of which occurred in the Lake Chad region. Chad’s security forces and essential government services continued to face resource constraints, limiting the government’s capacity to address all security concerns.
18. Philippines
Terrorist groups and individuals influenced by their ideologies are determined to carry out attacks on U.S. citizens overseas. They increasingly employ less complex methods of attack, which often involve knives, firearms, and vehicles to effectively target crowds. Their focus tends to be on vulnerable and unprotected locations, including high-profile public events such as sporting competitions, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday celebrations, and other large gatherings, : hotels, clubs, and restaurants that are frequently patronized by tourists, etc.
17. Chile
In late 2019, Chile experienced a significant upsurge in civil unrest, marking the most violent protests the country had witnessed since the end of the military dictatorship three decades earlier. In the subsequent months, the nation incurred extensive financial losses, with billions of dollars in property damage and business interruptions. While protest activities subsided in 2020, partly due to COVID-19 restrictions, the scheduled elections and the constitutional rewrite in 2021 are anticipated to serve as additional catalysts for unrest. Simultaneously, the conflict revolving around land rights, involving factions within the Mapuche indigenous group across four southern provinces, intensified in 2020.
16. Egypt
Terrorist attacks remain a concern across Egypt, and the threat is not confined to specific areas. Possible targets encompass religious sites and tourist destinations. The situation in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories holds the potential for heightened tensions, which could lead to a rapid deterioration in the security environment. Additionally, it’s essential to note that the status of the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt may change unpredictably. The crossing may experience prolonged closures or highly restricted access, subject to abrupt shifts. Furthermore, during the ongoing Gaza conflict, the Rafah crossing has faced the risk of air strikes.
15. Colombia
Violent crime, encompassing homicides, assaults, and armed robberies, remains a pervasive issue in many areas. Organized criminal activities, including extortion, robberies, and kidnappings, are prevalent in certain regions. Colombia continues to grapple with the presence of terrorist organizations like the National Liberation Army (ELN), Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia – People’s Army (FARC-EP), Segunda Marquetalia, as well as criminal organizations like the Clan del Golfo. Their targets include transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, local government facilities, police stations, military installations, hotels, clubs, restaurants, airports, and other public areas.
14. Democratic Republic of the Congo
A persistent threat of terrorist attacks looms over the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with a particular focus on the eastern region. Incidents targeting both civilians and government installations happen with regularity. Vigilance is crucial in the face of potential threats, particularly in public settings. Kidnapping risks in the DRC are notably high, with a surge in express kidnappings targeting foreigners. Prior to traveling to the DRC, it’s advisable to seek guidance from security professionals for a thorough understanding of the situation. Refer to the ‘Safety’ section for further details and advice.
13. India
Since its establishment in 1947, India has been confronted with an exceptionally wide spectrum of terrorist activities. According to the University of Maryland’s Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START) program’s Country Reports on Terrorism for the year 2015, although there wasn’t a significant surge in the total number of attacks during that period, India continued to grapple with an alarmingly high frequency of terrorism incidents. Since India is on the list of 15 Most Advanced Countries in Nuclear Technology there is a justified fear of the nuclear activities in this area, too. This ranked the country as the fourth most affected in the world, following Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
12. Mozambique
It is advisable to exercise heightened caution in Mozambique due to various factors, including health concerns, crime, and terrorism. Some regions within the country carry a higher risk. Northern Mozambique remains active with the presence of terrorist groups, posing a continuing threat. Attacks on public areas can transpire with minimal or no prior notice. Mozambique’s healthcare infrastructure is limited, with just three doctors per 100,000 people. Frontline healthcare providers may have inadequate training, and shortages of essential medicines are prevalent. In the event of a public health emergency, the availability of intensive care units (ICUs) and ventilator support is highly improbable.
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11. Cameroon
There is a huge reason why is Cameroon on the list of the countries most impacted by terrorism in the world. Cameroon is marked by prevalent violent crime, notably incidents involving armed robbery and carjacking. Local law enforcement often grapples with resource constraints, making it challenging to respond effectively to serious criminal events. In the Adamawa Region situated north of the capital, Ngaoundere, and the East Region, there exists a heightened criminal threat within 20 kilometers of the border shared with the Central African Republic.
10. Niger
The ongoing endeavors to destabilize constitutional order may give rise to an upsurge in demonstrations, potentially resulting in civil unrest and government instability. One of the countries on our list of the countries most impacted by terrorism in the world, Niger remains a target for terrorist groups, with plots involving kidnappings and potential attacks. These acts of terrorism can occur with minimal or no forewarning and are directed at both foreign and local government establishments and locations commonly visited by Westerners. Terrorist activities are prominent in regions bordering Mali, Libya, Burkina Faso, as well as across northern Niger.
9. Myanmar (Burma)
There are several regions in Myanmar, one of the countries most impacted by terrorism in the world, affected by terrorists. Violence, which can encompass explosions and attacks, is a concern that pervades all areas, including Yangon. Potential targets for such attacks may include locations commonly frequented by foreigners, such as public spaces and civilian infrastructure. These attacks are characterized by their unpredictability in terms of both location and intensity. It is paramount to maintain constant awareness of the security landscape. Foreign nationals have been trafficked into Myanmar, either directly to Yangon or via neighboring countries, and subjected to forced labor in fraudulent activities. Such victims often endure poor compensation and living conditions, restrictions on their freedom of movement, and severe mistreatment.
8. Nigeria
The risk of terrorism in Nigeria extends to the capital city of Abuja and its surrounding Federal Capital Territory area, and this risk has escalated in 2022. Since May 2022, Islamic State West Africa (ISWA) has carried out several attacks in Kogi, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory. This risk is prevalent throughout the Federal Capital Territory, including Abuja, with a particular focus on the border regions of the Federal Capital Territory. Public places where crowds congregate have been previous targets, including places of worship, markets, shopping malls, hotels, bars, restaurants, football viewing centers, displacement camps, transport terminals (including train networks), government buildings, security, and educational institutions (schools, further education colleges, and universities are commonly targeted), and international organizations.
7. Iraq
One of the countries most impacted by terrorism in the world, Iraq faces several significant terrorist threats, primarily from the remnants of ISIS and various Iran-aligned militia groups (IAMGs). These militia groups include Kata’ib Hizballah, Harakat al-Nujaba, and Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq, all of which have been designated by the U.S. government. Additionally, smaller militias claiming affiliation with Iraq’s “Islamic Resistance” are active. The Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a designated terrorist organization primarily based in the mountainous regions of northern Iraq and southeastern Türkiye, has carried out multiple attacks in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region (IKR). These attacks have resulted in the fatalities of several Kurdish security forces, known as Peshmerga personnel.
6. Pakistan
In 2021, Pakistan has become one of the countries most impacted by terrorism in the world after it undertook several measures to combat terror financing and to curtail the activities of some India-focused militant groups. The country conducted a review and revision of its 2015 National Action Plan (NAP) aimed at countering terrorism. The updated NAP streamlined the plan from a 20-point framework to 14 key points, though it made limited progress on the most challenging aspects, particularly its commitment to dismantle all terrorist organizations promptly and impartially. Prominent terrorist groups that primarily focused on carrying out attacks within Pakistan included the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), and ISIS-K.
5. Syria
As one of the countries most impacted by terrorism in the world, Syria has experienced a substantial number of terrorist attacks, with significant casualties occurring, particularly in major cities. Multiple terrorist groups operate within the country, including Daesh and Hay’at Tahrir al Sham (formerly known as Jabhat Fatah al Sham/Al Nusrah Front). These groups target a wide array of locations, encompassing official installations, airports, border crossings, public transportation, and civilian spaces such as public squares, hospitals, places of worship, and educational institutions. Terrorist groups continue to pose a significant danger to both Syrian civilians and have exhibited their capacity to execute coordinated attacks against both armed actors and non-combatant populations.
4. Mali
Mali contends with a prevalence of violent crime, notably incidents of kidnapping and armed robbery. Violent crime is of particular concern during local holidays and seasonal events, particularly in Bamako, its surrounding suburbs, and the southern regions of Mali. errorist groups and armed organizations remain active in their efforts to plan kidnappings and attacks in Mali. These acts of terrorism can occur with minimal or no advance notice, targeting venues like nightclubs, hotels, restaurants, places of worship, international diplomatic missions, and other locations often frequented by foreigners. In addition to these targets, attacks may also aim at Malian government facilities and infrastructure, in addition to places frequented by Western nationals.