Tue Sep 24 04:01:00 UTC 2024: ## Global Safety Stalls as Ecuador Plunges into Crisis: Gallup

**WASHINGTON, D.C.** – While a majority of people worldwide feel safer today than a decade ago, global progress on personal safety has stalled, according to the latest Gallup Law and Order Index. The data reveals a stark contrast between countries with strong rule of law and those struggling with crime and violence.

**Ecuador, once known for its relative peace, has become a focal point of concern**. The Andean nation, caught in the crossfire of global cocaine trafficking, has seen its murder rate skyrocket to nearly 50 per 100,000 residents, placing it among the most dangerous countries in the world. **A record-low 27% of Ecuadorians feel safe walking alone at night**, with the Guayas province registering the lowest safety perception globally, even surpassing active war zones.

**The report highlights a troubling trend in Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa**, where residents continue to report the lowest levels of safety. In contrast, **countries with tighter state control, such as Kuwait, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia, show near-universal feelings of security.**

**El Salvador, once dubbed the “murder capital of the world,” has experienced a dramatic shift**, with a record 88% of residents now feeling safe. This turnaround is attributed to the government’s crackdown on gangs, despite raising concerns about its authoritarian approach.

**The data also reveals the importance of local factors in building a sense of safety**. While national institutions play a role, **trust in local police and a positive perception of the community are the strongest predictors of personal safety.**

**The study emphasizes that feeling safe is not just a matter of statistics, but a crucial factor in building resilient and prosperous societies.** When people feel safe, they invest in education, relationships, and community development, leading to a more stable and thriving future.

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