MUDHI ALOBTHANI (ABU DHABI)

As global peacefulness declines, the UAE continues to stand out as one of the world's more stable and secure nations, thanks to sustained investments in governance, social cohesion and economic development, heard a session recently held at TRENDS Research & Advisory's Dubai office.

Speaking during the session, Serge Stroobants, Director for Europe, the Middle East and North Africa at the Institute for Economics and Peace, discussed the 2025 Global Peace Index (GPI) published by the Institute for Economics and Peace, in which the UAE ranked 53rd out of 163 countries, positioning it in the top third globally.

"Being 53rd means the UAE is still in the first third group of peaceful countries," Stroobants said. "This is not a judgement - it is what the data shows."

Positive Peace: The UAE's Key Strength

Stroobants emphasised that beyond the GPI, the UAE ranks highly in the Positive Peace Index (40 out of 163 countries), which measures the structures and policies that create lasting peace. 

"Positive peace looks at structures, institutions and attitudes creating sustainable peaceful societies. It is a systemic approach based on eight interconnected pillars such as high levels of good governance, factors of social cohesion, economic stability, a sound business environment and equitable access to resources," he said. 

"The UAE performs very well in these areas, demonstrating that investment in these pillars creates long-term stability and wellbeing."

In practical terms, this means strong governance, a thriving business environment, robust infrastructure, and inclusive policies that enhance social cohesion across the country. In Abu Dhabi, for instance, these investments contribute to a high quality of life, economic growth, and a sense of safety and community among residents. 

"These are consequences of deliberate decisions, investments in a peaceful society and a solid social issue, not accidental outcomes," Stroobants noted.

The UAE's diverse population is also one of the various sources of strength. 

"Policies that promote tolerance, acceptance of others' rights, and equitable distribution of resources increase the level of positive peace and prevent grievances from emerging," Stroobants said. 

"This is essential because socio-economic frustrations, grievances and exclusion are often root causes of conflict and violence."

Global Context: Challenges Ahead

While discussing the UAE's approach, Stroobants warned that the global context remains worrying. 

"We are facing the highest number of active conflicts since World War II, and global peacefulness has declined for the 13th time in 17 years," he said. Rising militarisation, unresolved conflicts, and geopolitical fragmentation are shaping an international system in which power is increasingly contested.

"In this fragmented world, middle powers, like the UAE,  play a critical role in promoting unity, collaboration and peace, eventually in sustaining stability," Stroobants said. "By investing in positive peace, countries can ensure internal security, foster social cohesion and promote better international cohesion, even amid external challenges."