Safety looks different depending on who you are, and a new global ranking is acknowledging that reality.
According to a recent international assessment highlighted by Yahoo Lifestyle, Netherlands has been ranked the safest country in the world not only for women, but also for LGBTQ+ travelers and people of color. The recognition places the country at the forefront of global conversations about inclusion, equity, and personal security.
Unlike traditional safety rankings that rely heavily on crime statistics, this assessment takes a broader approach, examining how marginalized communities experience everyday life. It considers whether people feel free to move through public spaces, express their identity openly, and rely on institutions for protection without fear of discrimination or harm.
The Netherlands stood out due to its low rates of violent crime combined with strong anti-discrimination laws and a cultural emphasis on tolerance and social cohesion. Women, LGBTQ+ people, and people of color consistently report feeling safe using public transportation, walking alone, and engaging in daily activities without heightened concern for harassment or violence. Legal protections for same-sex relationships, gender equality policies, and mechanisms to address racial discrimination further reinforce this sense of security.
Experts say this type of inclusive safety measurement reflects a growing understanding that protection is not one-size-fits-all. True safety accounts for overlapping identities and lived experiences, recognizing that race, gender, and sexual orientation can dramatically shape how individuals navigate the world. By focusing on intersectional experiences, the ranking captures not just laws on the books, but how those laws function in real life.
While the Netherlands claimed the top position, it is part of a broader group of countries that regularly score highly for inclusive safety. Nations such as Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Iceland are frequently recognized for pairing low crime rates with strong civil rights protections and social policies that actively discourage discrimination.
For women, LGBTQ+ travelers, and people of color, decisions about where to live or travel often involve weighing personal safety in ways others may not have to consider. Rankings like this help spotlight countries that are making meaningful progress, not just through rhetoric but through enforceable protections and cultural norms that prioritize dignity and inclusion.
As global mobility increases and conversations around identity and safety continue to evolve, the Netherlands’ top ranking sends a clear message: safety is not just about being protected from crime, but about being able to exist freely, visibly, and without fear.
