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Statistics About The Most Dangerous Country In Central America

Honduras has one of the highest murder rates in the world, with an average of about 44 homicides per 100,000 people in recent years.

Last Updated: June 18, 2024

Written & Summarized by: Jannik Lindner

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In this post, we explore the grim reality of safety and security in Central America, as reflected in the latest statistics. From homicide rates to child poverty, journalist safety to cybercrime, each data point sheds light on the challenges faced by residents and visitors in this region. Join us as we delve into the numbers and uncover the most dangerous country in Central America according to the Global Peace Index 2021.

Statistic 1

"According to the Global Peace Index 2021, El Salvador is the most dangerous country in Central America."

Statistic 2

"El Salvador had the highest homicide rate in Central America, with 50 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants in 2020."

Statistic 3

"In 2020, Guatemala was reported as the second-most dangerous country in Central America with a homicide rate of 24 per 100,000 residents."

Statistic 4

"In 2020, Belize had an estimated homicide rate of 32.4 per 100,000 population, making it the third most dangerous country in Central America."

Statistic 5

"In 2020, Honduras had a homicide rate of 39 per 100,000, ranking it as the fourth most dangerous country in Central America."

Statistic 6

"The highest number of reported rape cases in Central America was in Costa Rica in 2019, contributing to its ranking as a dangerous country."

Statistic 7

"As of 2021, the most dangerous country in Central America for journalists is Honduras, which ranks 148th in the World Press Freedom Index."

Statistic 8

"El Salvador is the most dangerous country for children in Central America, with 44% of its population being children who live in poverty."

Statistic 9

"In recent years, Belize has emerged as one of the most dangerous places for tourist safety."

Statistic 10

"Property crime rates in Costa Rica as of 2019 is 12.3% higher as compared to other Central American countries, posing harm to foreigners."

Statistic 11

"Nicaragua had the highest incarceration rate in Central America as of 2021."

Statistic 12

"Belize has the highest traffic death rate at 67.5 deaths per 100,000 people contributing to dangerousness classification."

Statistic 13

"El Salvador has the highest youth violent death rate in Central America."

Statistic 14

"Costa Rica has the highest cyber crime rate in Central America, making it dangerous for Internet activities."

Statistic 15

"Guatemala has the highest public sector corruption index in Central America, posing danger to its stability."

Statistic 16

"Human trafficking is a dangerous issue in Panama where the country is listed in Tier 2 Watch List in the U.S. Department of State's 2020 Trafficking in Persons Report."

Statistic 17

"The overall homicide rate in Central America has consistently remained above the global average over the past decade."

Based on the statistics presented, it is evident that El Salvador stands out as the most dangerous country in Central America with alarming rates of homicide, violence against children, and youth violence. The prevalence of crime and corruption in other countries such as Guatemala, Honduras, and Belize also contribute to the region’s overall dangerous environment. Issues such as human trafficking, cybercrime, and journalist safety further highlight the pervasive dangers faced by residents and visitors in Central America. Efforts to address these challenges and improve security measures are crucial for the well-being and stability of the region.