5 Most Dangerous Countries in Central and South America

2. Venezuela

Global Peace Index Ranking: 140 (tie)

Venezuela is a country on the northern coast of South America with diverse natural attractions and a blend of indigenous and Spanish customs, as well as regional Caribbean and Andean influences. The country is deemed unstable by many locals and visitors, with most observers citing anti-democratic governance, corruption, and mismanagement of the economy as causes of the crisis. Venezuela ranks among the countries with the highest homicide rates worldwide. In 2021, the homicide rate stood at 40.9 incidents per 100,000 people. While there has been a slight decline in homicides each year since reaching a peak in 2017, the decrease has not been significant enough to establish Venezuela as a safe destination.