New Zealand ranked 'World’s Most Peaceful' nation second year in a row

New Zealand has acquired the distinction of being the world’s most peaceful nation for the second year running.

Global think tank Institute for Economics and Peace compiles global rankings of the most peaceful countries by rating them on parameters like economic development, business and peace and their interactions.

The Kiwis were followed by Iceland and Japan in the poll, while Austria and Norway rounded out the top five.

According to the Daily Express, the report examines key areas of conflict, safety, security and military factors in 149 countries.

Their latest index, presented today, suggested the world has become slightly less peaceful in the past 12 months.

New Zealand bagged the top position owing to its political stability, internal safety, equanimity and healthy relations with neighbours like Australia.

Australia lagged behind at 19th position because, in contrast to its friendly neighbour New Zealand the number of conflicts fought, the likelihood of violent demonstrations, the level of security required per capita were much higher.

Meanwhile, the war-torn Gulf nation of Iraq earned the ignominious top spot as the 'Least peaceful nation' for a dismal fourth consecutive year.