Homicide rates offer a powerful snapshot of safety and social stability around the world. This article ranks the 50 countries with the highest murder rates based on the latest data from 2023–2024. From gang-related violence in Latin America to ultra-low rates in parts of Asia and Europe, each country profile highlights key drivers, trends, and efforts to reduce deadly crime.
Countries with the Highest Homicide Rates (Latest Estimates)
| Rank | Country | Homicide Rate (per 100k) |
| 1 | Turks & Caicos Islands (2024) | 103.1 |
| 2 | El Salvador (2024) | 1.9 |
| 3 | El Salvador (2023)* | 2.4 |
| 3 | Jamaica (2023) | 49.3 |
| 4 | Lesotho (2023) | 43.6 |
| 5 | Honduras (2023) | 31.4 |
| 6 | Belize (2023) | 37.8 |
| 7 | Venezuela (2023) | 36.7 |
| 8 | Saint Vincent & the Grenadines (2023) | 36.5 |
| 9 | South Africa (2023) | 36.4 |
| 10 | Nigeria (2023) | 34.5 |
*El Salvador’s dramatic drop to 1.9 per 100k in 2024 places it among the safest in Latin America. The Turks & Caicos spike refers to a small population base.
Country Profiles
1. Turks & Caicos Islands
Turks & Caicos saw its homicide rate soar to 103.1 per 100k in 2024 due to 48 reported murders—a sharp increase tied to small population effects and surges in firearms and narcotics trafficking Sophisticated smuggling networks, including human smuggling, have exacerbated violence. The local criminal justice system is strained by complexity beyond its size. Authorities face challenges in dismantling cross-border trafficking routes. Ongoing efforts include increased law enforcement cooperation with regional partners.
2. El Salvador
El Salvador’s homicide rate plummeted from 21.2 per 100k in 2020 to just 1.9 per 100k in 2024 under aggressive government anti-gang programs . The gang crackdown, initiated by President Bukele’s “modernization” and “incursion” phases since 2019, continues with “integration” taking effect in 2023. The 98 % drop in nine years is historically unprecedented in the region. However, critics raise concerns over due process, civil rights, and long-term sustainability. Despite these, homicide numbers remain at record lows as of early 2025.
3. Jamaica
Jamaica recorded approximately 49.3 homicides per 100k in 2023, making it one of the most violent in the Caribbean High levels of gang control, illicit drug trade, and structural poverty are primary drivers. The government has increased law enforcement in urban communities and implemented community engagement and youth diversion programs. Despite these, the homicide rate remains stubbornly elevated. Ongoing reforms include violence interruption networks and socioeconomic investments.
4. Lesotho
Lesotho had a homicide rate of roughly 43.6 per 100k in 2023 Ultra-high rates stem from persistent gender-based violence, inter-personal conflict, and inadequate policing. Social norms and impunity contribute to sustained violence levels. Efforts are underway to strengthen civic policing, judicial capacity, and gender-based violence prevention. Challenges remain in funding and nationwide implementation.
5. Honduras
Honduras’s 2023 homicide rate stood at about 31.4 per 100k . Organized crime, gang turf wars, and drug transit via Central America underpin the violence. The government continues pressure via anti-gang policing and judiciary reform, though impunity remains a challenge. International support, including U.S. and multilateral anti-corruption programs, is in place. Reduction in homicide rates has been slow and erratic.
6. Belize
Belize saw 37.8 homicides per 100k in 2023 . Highest rates appear in urban centers like Belize City, linked to gang rivalries and drug smuggling. Police initiatives include targeted enforcement, community curfews, and partnerships with regional crime labs. Prevention efforts focus on youth and community centers. Resource constraints limit broad impact.
7. Venezuela
In 2023, Venezuela reported approximately 36.7 homicides per 100k . Deep socioeconomic crisis, political instability, and weak institutions amplify violence. A significant portion of killings is tied to paramilitary groups and criminal gangs. Limited police accountability and judicial effectiveness hinder reduction efforts. However, recent initiatives—like localized police surge zones—show early promise.
8. Saint Vincent & the Grenadines
Saint Vincent & the Grenadines reported a homicide rate of around 36.5 per 100k in 2023 . The small population makes rates volatile, with gang activity fueling many killings. Law enforcement struggles with capacity limits in remote areas. Security strategies include increased Caribbean regional cooperation and community policing. Ongoing support for youth engagement and substance abuse prevention aims to reduce violence.
9. South Africa
South Africa’s homicide rate stood at about 36.4 per 100k in 2023—the highest in its region . Persistently violent crime, including gender-based violence and armed robbery, drives the elevated rate. The government has launched national crime prevention and community policing initiatives. Still, endemic economic inequality and systemic corruption present serious barriers. Specialized units on gender-based crimes and gang violence are being expanded.
10. Nigeria
Nigeria recorded roughly 34.5 homicides per 100k in 2023 . Violence stems from ethnic and religious conflict, banditry, and insurgencies in several states. Police and military operations target extremist and criminal groups. Reconciliation and conflict prevention programs are active in rural hotspots. Federal investment in policing infrastructure and judicial reforms is ongoing.
Rankings 11–20: Homicide Rates (per 100k)
| Rank | Country | Homicide Rate (per 100k) | Year |
| 11 | Suriname | 29.9 | 2024 |
| 12 | Barbados | 17.7 | 2024 |
| 13 | Ecuador | 45.7 | 2023 |
| 14 | Haiti | 41.1 | 2023 |
| 15 | Mexico | 24.9 | 2023 |
| 16 | Costa Rica | 17.8 | 2023 |
| 17 | Puerto Rico | 14.3 | 2023 |
| 18 | Bermuda | 6.18 | 2023 |
| 19 | Mongolia | 5.92 | 2023 |
| 20 | United States | 5.76 | 2023 |
Country Profiles (11–20)
11. Suriname
Suriname recorded a homicide rate of 29.9 per 100,000 in 2024, marking the sharpest increase globally year-over-year. The surge was driven by gang-related unrest and a breakdown in peace agreements, particularly in urban areas. Small population amplifies proportional impact—under 200 homicides caused a major statistical jump. Authorities responded with emergency policing and community curfews. Longer-term reforms aim to rebuild trust and dismantle gangs through social programs.
12. Barbados
Barbados’s homicide rate climbed to 17.7 per 100,000 in 2024—over double the previous year. This spike followed the collapse of a fragile peacemaking pact among rival gangs. With only about 50 murders, the small population means even this number caused a large rate shift. Authorities have enacted stricter targeting of gang leadership and reinforced national borders. Prevention initiatives include youth mentorship and gang exit programs.
13. Ecuador
Ecuador registered 45.7 homicides per 100,000 in 2023—among the highest in Latin America. Much of the violence is linked to organized crime and drug trafficking. The government has deployed military-backed police to gang-controlled regions. Judicial reforms and prison crackdowns are also underway. Civil society is pushing for expanded social support in youth-first zones.
14. Haiti
Haiti recorded 41.1 homicides per 100,000 in 2023. Gangs control large parts of the capital and provinces, making violence pervasive and daily. The national police are weak and often outgunned by armed groups. International forces and NGOs provide limited stability but long-term progress is stalled by political chaos. Emergency humanitarian and security support remains in place as structural reform stalls.
15. Mexico
Mexico’s homicide rate was 24.9 per 100,000 in 2023 . Drug cartels and organized crime dominate violence patterns, particularly in border and trafficking corridors. Federal and state authorities are engaged in an ongoing crackdown with mixed success. Community-level interventions aim to reduce recruitment and retaliation cycles. Judicial and law-enforcement modernization efforts are ongoing under mounting pressure.
16. Costa Rica
Costa Rica reported 17.8 homicides per 100,000 in 2023 . A recent rise is tied to growing organized crime and drug transit through its territory. Police are enhancing border patrols and enhancing crime-mapping systems. Social programs target at-risk youth to deter recruitment into illicit networks. Regional cooperation with neighboring countries has strengthened law enforcement coordination.
17. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico’s homicide rate was 14.3 per 100,000 in 2023. While trending down from earlier peaks, violence remains high due to residual gang activity and economic challenges. U.S. federal funding supports police modernization and equipment upgrades. Community policing units collaborate with NGOs to address root issues. A key strategy focuses on judicial reform to speed prosecutions.
18. Bermuda
Bermuda saw 6.18 homicides per 100,000 in 2023 . Though modest in absolute numbers, its small population size exaggerates the rate. Firearm-related incidents—usually domestic or criminal in origin—are the main concern. The government responded with stricter gun control and surveillance initiatives. Community-based conflict mediation also received increased support.
19. Mongolia
Mongolia recorded 5.92 homicides per 100,000 in 2023. While modest relative to global hotspots, this is higher than typical Asian averages. Alcohol-fueled domestic violence and resource disputes are principal factors. Police have increased patrols in urban and mining regions. Alcohol education and intervention programs are being expanded.
20. United States
The U.S. national homicide rate was 5.76 per 100,000 in 2023 . After peaking during the early COVID years, the rate has declined toward pre-pandemic levels. Firearms are involved in nearly two-thirds of U.S. homicides. Local governments emphasize violence interruption, mental-health investment, and policing reform. Federal initiatives fund community violence prevention across cities and counties.
Rankings 21–30: Homicide Rates (per 100k)
Country Profiles (21–30)
21. Panama
Panama recorded around 12.9 homicides per 100,000 in 2024, driven largely by gang turf fights over drug trafficking routes in Colón and Panama provinces The national police conducted focused operations targeting organized crime cells. Provincial authorities are collaborating with the U.S. and regional partners to enhance border security. Community policing programs aim to bridge gaps in high-risk neighborhoods. Civic campaigns focus on youth prevention and access to social services.
22. Trinidad & Tobago
With approximately 45.7 homicides per 100,000 in 2024, Trinidad & Tobago experienced its deadliest year on record . Violence is linked to gang rivalries and high drug-trafficking activity near transit hubs. The government responded with increased precinct deployments and legislative changes to strengthen sentencing. Local NGOs are offering intervention services and victim support. Efforts are also being made to reduce gang recruitment among youth.
23. Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia had a homicide rate of 42.8 per 100,000 in 2024 Gang-related violence and illicit weapons circulation are primary contributors. Law enforcement increased firearm seizures and launched community patrols in hotspots. Regional security collaboration has been reinforced. Domestic violence programs and youth-at-risk outreach efforts are also expanding.
24. Brazil
Brazil posted a homicide rate of 17.9 per 100,000 in 2024—the lowest in over a decade—following a 5% decline from the previous year . With nearly 39,000 murders, this reflects a shift from peak crisis years. Continued efforts focus on police reform and strengthening firearms controls. States have implemented targeted interventions in violence-stricken urban areas. Crime prevention now incorporates mental-health and social service programming.
25. Guatemala
Guatemala’s homicide rate dipped to 16.1 per 100,000 in 2024, with a modest decline since 2023. Gang revenge killings remain a frequent cause. The national police have increased intelligence operations and community engagement efforts. Local coordination with U.S. agencies supports anti-drug trafficking efforts. Civil society focuses on restorative justice and youth diversion.
26. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic recorded approximately 14.3 homicides per 100,000 in 2024, continuing a three-year decline . Most homicides are interpersonal rather than related to organized crime. Officials credit better firearm control and rapid judicial response. Community mediation services have been expanded. The government also strengthened prison reforms to reduce recidivism.
27. Colombia
Colombia’s homicide rate is estimated at 25.4 per 100,000 in 2023, sustained by rural gang violence and urban drug cartels. Peace accords have helped reduce nationwide violence but isolated hotspots remain volatile. The government increased rural security deployments and police reforms. Social programs in former conflict zones aim to integrate youth. Efforts also focus on reducing illicit mining and trafficking.
28. Peru
Peru’s homicide rate reached approximately 6.0 per 100,000 in 2024—a 36% increase from 2023, driven by mining-area violence . Armed groups engaged in illegal gold mining and extortion affect rural populations. Security forces have expanded operations near resource zones. Presidential directives target illegal mining and associated crime. Community-level alcohol and conflict intervention programs are being deployed.
29. Uruguay
Uruguay recorded around 8.0 homicides per 100,000 in 2023—one of the lowest in Latin America . Organized crime impact remains limited compared to neighbors. Strong judicial independence and policing traditions help maintain stability. Social programs support at-risk communities and domestic violence prevention. Government strategies emphasize school- and neighborhood-based violence intervention.
30. Bolivia
Bolivia reported about 4.4 homicides per 100,000 in 2023 . Much of the violence is concentrated in remote regions around drug trafficking routes. National police have enhanced patrols and interagency intelligence gathering. Indigenous and rural communities have received focused violence-prevention resources. Development projects are targeting structural sources of instability.
Rankings 31–40: Homicide Rates (per 100k)
| Rank | Country | Homicide Rate | Year |
| 31 | Bahamas | 29.7 | 2024 |
| 32 | Belize | 21.7 | 2024 |
| 33 | Nicaragua | 6.0* | 2024 |
| 34 | Argentina | (↓ 13.6%) unspecified | 2024 |
| 35 | Saint Kitts & Nevis | 36.1 | 2023 |
| 36 | India | (included in top 5 total) | 2023 |
| 37 | South Africa | 36.4 | 2023 |
| 38 | Saint Vincent & the Grenadines | 53.7 | 2024 |
| 39 | Saint Lucia | 42.8 | 2024 |
| 40 | Trinidad & Tobago | 45.7 | 2024 |
*Nicaragua’s 2024 murder rate of ~6.0 per 100k is government-reported and may lack external verification
Country Profiles (31–40)
31. Bahamas
The Bahamas had a homicide rate of ~29.7 per 100,000 in 2024, a year-on-year rise of 8%. The violence stems mainly from gang-related and retaliatory killings in urban zones. A U.S. travel advisory was issued due to this spike. Law enforcement agencies received international support to improve organized crime investigations. Ongoing reforms focus on forensic capacity and community outreach.
32. Belize
Belize recorded 21.7 homicides per 100,000 in 2024, rising 13% from 2023. Drug trafficking-related disputes—particularly over marijuana markets—are key drivers. A state of emergency was declared early in 2024 to curb gang violence. Police have ramped up seizures of firearms and led joint patrols in hotspot areas. Youth diversion and mentorship programs were concurrently expanded.
33. Nicaragua
Nicaragua reported a homicide rate of approximately 6.0 per 100,000 in 2024, a slight decrease from the prior year . The data come from government sources, but lack third-party validation. Government statements tie the reduction to anti-gang initiatives and community policing. The rate remains moderate compared to regional averages. Watch for independent audits to assess data reliability.
34. Argentina
Argentina experienced a 13.6% decline in homicides in 2024, though exact rate figures weren’t specified The drop occurred amid reforms to policing practices and penal codes. Community-level crime prevention initiatives were introduced in major cities. Public confidence in safety is rising, per national surveys. Further analysis will follow when official homicide numbers are released.
35. Saint Kitts & Nevis
Saint Kitts & Nevis recorded a homicide rate of 36.1 per 100,000 in 2023, placing it among the Caribbean’s most violent nations. The country faced a few dozen murders due to gang flares and familial disputes. Its small population intensifies rate volatility. Authorities are enhancing regional cooperation on firearms control. Youth engagement and anti-gang programs are being rolled out nationwide.
36. India
India is listed among countries with the highest total homicides globally—though specific national rate data wasn’t provided, its inclusion in the top five implies a significant share of worldwide murders (40% of global homicides occur in Brazil, Nigeria, Mexico, India, and South Africa) . Urban violence, caste conflicts, and organized crime are prominent sources. Federal police reforms and community policing models are being expanded. Data improvements continue under the NIBRS framework.
37. South Africa
South Africa’s rate was approximately 36.4 per 100,000 in 2023 . Crime remains rooted in inequality, gang activity, and weak rule of law. The government has deployed enhanced community policing and specialist crime units. Gender-based violence units received targeted investment. Although gains are modest, national homicide trends show signs of plateauing.
38. Saint Vincent & the Grenadines
The rate reached 53.7 per 100,000 in 2024—a substantial spike over 2023 . Violence is driven by small but potent gangs tied to cocaine trafficking. Firearm seizures were ramped up, yet logistical limits remain. Authorities are pushing for regional Caribbean security collaboration. Community crime prevention networks have been strengthened.
39. Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia’s homicide rate edged up to 42.8 per 100,000 in 2024, slightly surpassing its 2023 high . Firearms remain the dominant murder weapon. The police increased firearm seizures but struggled with gang entrenchment in certain areas. The government maintains regional data-sharing agreements. Startups and NGOs are scaling youth-development and conflict mediation initiatives.
40. Trinidad & Tobago
With 45.7 homicides per 100,000 in 2024, Trinidad & Tobago reached its deadliest year ever . Nearly 625 murders, 44% gang-related, were reported . A state of emergency was enacted, but long-term crime reduction depends on systemic reform. NGOs are offering anti-gang exit programs and victim support services. Legislative updates aim to tighten sentencing and firearm control.
Rankings 41–50: Homicide Rates (per 100k)
†India is not typically high-ranking by rate, but due to its large share of total global homicides, it is often grouped within the global top 5 (UNODC data)
Country Profiles (41–50)
41. Brazil
Brazil’s homicide rate declined to 21.1 per 100,000 in 2022, the lowest level in over a decade . With around 38,700 homicides in 2024, the rate dropped further to 17.9 per 100kEfforts include police reform, stricter gun control, and regional hotspot interventions. Social service programs targeting youth and mental health are expanding. Ongoing challenges include regional disparities tied to inequality and organized crime.
42. Colombia
Colombia’s rate remained at 25.4 per 100,000 in 2023, driven by residual violence in former conflict zones . Rural gangs and drug cartels fuel localized surges. Security initiatives include reintegration programs and increased rural police presence. Social investment in youth education and housing has been scaled back up. The justice system is modernizing to address impunity.
43. Guatemala
With 16.1 per 100,000 in 2024, Guatemala saw a modest homicide decline . Gang-related revenge killings remain common in urban zones. Law enforcement has increased intelligence-led operations. Youth detention reforms and NGO-driven mentorship programs aim to prevent crimes. Border collaboration with U.S. and Mexican authorities continues to reduce trafficking routes.
44. Mexico
Mexico maintained a homicide rate of 24.9 per 100,000 in 2023, reflecting persistent cartel violence . Federal operations focus on dismantling trafficking corridors. Specialized prosecutors and armored task forces are being deployed. Community violence prevention networks have expanded in hotspot regions. Legal reforms aim to improve judicial transparency and reduce corruption.
45. South Africa
South Africa posted 36.4 per 100,000 in 2023, making it the highest among the larger nations. Violence persists from inequality, gang conflicts, and gender-based violence. National strategies now include community policing and fortified gender crime units. Local forums discuss urban safety and shared mental-health supports. Police accountability and crime reduction remain high political priorities.
46. India
India registers a relatively low homicide rate (~3.5 per 100k), but accounts for about 14% of global homicides due to its large population. Urban caste violence, domestic disputes, and organized crime are key drivers. Police modernization and community outreach are ongoing. Data quality is improving under UNODC+health record integration. National campaigns emphasize preventive legal awareness and firearm control.
47. Poland
Poland recorded just 0.68 homicides per 100,000 in 2022, maintaining a low-crime status Rates have been stable for years. Strong judicial independence and effective policing underpin its safety. Programs targeting domestic violence and vulnerable groups receive consistent funding. Crime prevention is integrated into local governance.
48. Singapore
At 0.07 per 100,000 in 2023, Singapore remains among the world’s safest countries. Stringent gun laws, high social trust, and deterrent sentencing contribute to model safety. Surveillance and community policing reinforce legal compliance. Civic education underscores national discipline values. It serves as a benchmark for low homicide success.
49. Oman
With 0.14 homicides per 100,000 in 2023, Oman also exhibits extremely low violence levels . Oil wealth and strong policing support stability. Cultural norms and family cohesion help limit criminal conflict. Expansion of police capacity and community outreach continues. Authorities emphasize crime prevention through education.
50. Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe saw 0.51 per 100,000 in 2023, maintaining low homicide rates for years . Most killings are domestic or dispute-related. Political instability and economic hardship have not translated to increased murders. Police retain broad authority and low crime levels. Community trusteeship and traditional authorities help mediate local disputes.