Given the economic decline forecast by Celente, quality of life in the U.S. may see new lows over the next few months and years. Some individuals and families are moving to other countries. Where, we wondered, could one find the highest quality of life? We found an article from last year which is followed by an update for 2008. Iceland has moved into the top spot in 2008, but we wonder if, given the current economic turmoil there, that is still the case? We’re not sure, but it still makes interesting reading and we will publish the 2009 Index as soon as it’s available.

According to the 2007 Global Peace Index, the following are countries where you don’t have to watch your back. These are countries where crime is virtually nonexistent or very rare. Consequently, the quality of life is higher in safer countries and the people live longer.

5. Japan. Though some may argue against this saying that Japan does not report all of its crime to officials, it is safe to say (no pun intended) that it is a peaceful nation. Major crimes occur at very low rates and it has a robbery ratio of 1.1 to every 100,000 people. The US has a ratio of 233 to every 100,000 people. One reason that may be attributed to the safety of the country is its culture. The Japanese are taught to never bring shame to their families, therefore abstain from disorderly conduct. The prosperous Japanese and tight gun control also can be factored in.

4. Ireland. Threats of terrorism and public riots are very slim in this Gaelic land. People are virtually free and the government functions with very, very little corruption. How often do we hear of Ireland on the news? Almost never. There is freedom of religion and press in Ireland and the likelihood of public political demonstrations is: 0. Reasons why? Irish are strict.

3. Denmark. Country most likely to be what Karl Marx imagined: socialism working. The Danes believe crime stems from poverty; therefore they have created a welfare state. People live comfortably and the most they have to worry about is pick pocketing. Police response is immediate.

2. New Zealand. Bottom line, you can walk almost anywhere at night. Zero litter, graffiti, and vandalism are some of the first things tourists see when they come to New Zealand and the government does a good job of monitoring crime. Violence is seldom heard of, but as in all big cities around the world, something is bound to happen sooner or later.

1. Norway According to the Global Peace Index, Norway is the most peaceful country in the world. This nation has an immeasurable illiteracy rate as everyone of or above school age can read and unemployment rate of 3.5%; both factors contribute to the country’s high level of safety. Everything functions like clockwork.

2008 Rankings Change

1. Iceland New

2. Denmark +2

3. Norway -1

4, New Zealand -1

5. Japan Japan +1

6 Ireland -1

7. Portugal +3

8. Finland -1

9. Luxembourg New

10. Austria +2

11. Canada -1

12 Switzerland +4