In this article, we shared our list of the 5 most dangerous countries in Central and South America. To see our analysis of peace and safety within Latin America, you can go to the 12 Most Dangerous Countries in Central and South America.
5. Haiti
Global Peace Index Ranking: 129
Haiti is a Caribbean country that shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic to its east. The second-oldest republic in the Western Hemisphere, after the United States, Haiti remains the most impoverished nation in the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) region and ranks among the poorest countries worldwide. As of 2021, Haiti’s Gross National Income (GNI) per capita stood at $1,420, the lowest in the LAC region, which averaged $15,092. Such poverty has led to rampant crime within the country. More than 1,600 incidents including homicide, rape, kidnapping, and lynching were reported in the first quarter of 2023, up from 692 during the same period last year, according to data collected by the Haitian National Police.
4. Brazil
Global Peace Index Ranking: 132
Brazil, officially known as the Federative Republic of Brazil, stands as one of the most prosperous nations in South America. With a robust GDP of $2 trillion and a per capita GDP of $9,673, the country showcases a thriving economic landscape that is dominated by both natural resources and industrial production. Despite the availability of luxurious hotels in modern urban areas for visitors, a significant portion of Brazil’s population resides in extreme poverty. Surrounding the country’s cities are favelas, makeshift settlements where many underprivileged citizens reside. Due to a considerable number of individuals being unemployed, Brazil experiences elevated crime rates, including instances of violence, with data showing that the country recorded 40,824 homicides in 2022.
3. Mexico
Global Peace Index Ranking: 136
Mexico, officially the United Mexican States, is a country in Latin America that is characterized by its rich culture, ancient ruins, dazzling beaches, and incredible cuisine. Standing as the second-largest economy in Latin America, closely following Brazil, holds a significant economic position. As of 2021, Mexico’s GDP reached $1.27 trillion, positioning its economy as the 15th largest globally, according to the World Bank. There are 32 states in Mexico, and the U.S State Department has “do not travel” advisories in place for six of them. In 2022, the economic repercussions of violent crime in Mexico were estimated to reach $230 billion, accounting for around 18.3% of the country’s GDP. Firearms have emerged as the primary contributing factor to homicides in Mexico, affecting both men and women. Between 2015 and 2022, the percentage of male homicides committed with firearms increased from 60.9% to 71.9%. Likewise, the proportion of female homicides, including femicides, involving firearms rose from 37.8% to 59.7% during the same timeframe.
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.
1. Colombia
Global Peace Index Ranking: 140 (tie)
Ranking first on our list of the most dangerous countries in Central and South America, Colombia has a peace index score of 2.693, the lowest in Latin America. Colombia has witnessed a fluctuating number of homicides in recent years, hovering around 12,000. In 2021, the total count of registered homicides in the South American nation increased to 14,159, compared to the 12,347 cases reported the previous year.
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