10 Most Peaceful Countries In The World

1>Iceland

Iceland is one of the very few countries that doesn't have a standing army (since 1869, to be specific), even though it is an active member of NATO. According to the Global Peace Index, Iceland is the most peaceful country in the world, thanks to its lack of an armed forces, a low crime rate, and a high level of sociopolitical stability.

2>Denmark

Copenhagen is the capital of one of the world’s most peaceful countries. For the record, Denmark has been ranked number two on the Global Peace Index out of 162 countries three years in a row.

3>Austria

Austria is considered one of the best countries, if not the best, on the planet. It also helps that it is a very peaceful country and freedom of speech is highly valued and protected by the government.

4>New Zealand

New Zealand continues to receive top scores for criteria such as respect for human rights, thanks to its relatively violence-free demonstrations and its low homicide rate. In an age when economic and political unrest is making itself felt throughout Europe and the US, New Zealand appears to be an ideal destination.

5>Switzerland

Switzerland has earned its reputation as a safe, peaceful, and neutral nation with very low crime rates.

6>Finland

Finland lacks a combative nature and is considered one of the most peaceful and livable countries in the world. Additionally, its military involvement over the past few years has only been related to UN peacekeeping missions.

7>Canada

Canada is known for having some of the most peaceful and friendly citizens, and their nation is considered one of the most welcoming and open-minded in the world.

8>Japan

Japan is the only Asian country that is ranked in the top 10 most peaceful countries index. The country hasn’t been involved in any war during the past several decades, never has riots, has political stability and low crime rates, and the government protects human rights and provides public security through a relatively small number of police officers.

9>Austalia

Despite the country’s violent past (especially during British colonization) Australia is currently one of the wealthiest and most peaceful in the world. Australia ranks high in many international comparisons of national performance, such as quality of life, health, education, economic freedom, and the protection of civil liberties and political rights.

10>Czech Republic

The Czech Republic, according to the Global Peace Index, is the tenth most peaceful country with a continually growing economy and a democratic government that makes sure it maintains stability and safety for its citizens.

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Top 10 Most Beautiful Korean Actress and Model

10. Son Ye Jin:                        

This beautiful and talented Korean actress began her career in 2000, at the tender age of 17, in the “Secret Tears Series.” However, it was the film, “Chihwaseon,” that was responsible for rocketing her to fame. Since then she’s played several roles in “The Classic,” “April Snow,” and “A Moment to Remember;” she’s even impressed the audiences of the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. In all, she’s won over 30 awards for contributions to film.

9. Yoon Eun Hye:                          

Not only is this 30 year old beauty a talented actress, she can sing also. ln fact, she has been paving a career in both of these industries for, virtually, half of her life. Her accomplishments include being a member of the K-Pop group V.O.X (until the year 2005) and two signature movies: “Coffee Prince” and “Goong.”

8. Ha Ji Won:                             

This talented and beautiful actress was born Hae-rim Jeon in 1978. She won a best actress award in 2000 for her debut performance in theater and has also earned critical acclaim for her performances in “True or Dare,” and “Sex is Zero.” In addition to her numerous accolades, her role as Chae-oak’ in the popular TV drama “Damo” in 2003 gained her the honor of being named the most promising actress in South Korea.
7. Han Ga ln:
                            

Han Ga In is a popular and very successful actress and model. She was thrust her into the limelight when she performed in “Bad Guy Moon.” ln addition, she has appeared in a number of airline commercials and the popular drama, “The Great Queen Seondeok.” Her skills are truly extraordinary and her enticing looks combine to make her one of the most popular actresses in Korea. Be sure to check out her korean model tumblr to see more of this enchanting lady.
6. Shin Min Ah:
                         

   

Shin Min Ah is a beautiful model and actress who has achieved amazing success on the movie screen and the catwalk. She started out with a modeling career with KiKi magazine and transitioned, over the years, to a number of advertisements. Nowadays, she is one of the most popular commercial film actresses in Korea. She also has acted in a variety of films, TV dramas and K-Pop music videos.

5. Park Shin Hye:                                      

This beautiful Korean actress is one of the youngest on this list and began performing when she was in the sixth grade. Now, at the tender age of 24, she has built an impressive career in film. Her film credits include the popular Korean TV Drama, “Stairway to Heaven,” “Goong,” and “Flower Boy Next Door.” ln addition, she is also a world famous dancer and singer.

4. Kim Tae Hee:                                     

Believe it or not, this gorgeous and talented actress is 34 years old. Her impressive skill and enchanting beauty has charmed their way into the hearts of many Koreans. She was featured in “Stairway to Heaven” and “Love Story in Harvard.” She has also has had a very successful career in the fashion industry and has collaborated with world famous brands like Toyota and Samsung.

3. Lee Da Hae:                               

Number 3 on the list of the most beautiful models and actresses is Lee Da He. This talented beauty has performed in such popular movies as “Miss Ripley” and “My Girl.” In addition, her modeling exploits have taken her all over the world to shoot ads for a number of famous brands.

2. Park Min Young:             

Park Min Young is one of the most talented and beautiful women in the film and modeling industries. This gorgeous 28 year old has graced television with her beauty in several shows e.g. “Sungkyunkwan Scandal” and “City Hunter “ She made her debut onto the movie screens with “The Cat” and has also been featured in a number of popular commercials and K-Pop music videos.

1. Song Hye Kyo:                                   

This beautiful 32 year old is number one on our list and it’s quite easy to see why. However, although she debuted in 1996, she didn’t have her big break till four years later when she performed in the drama, “Autumn in My Heart”. Since then, her popularity has soared with audiences all over Asia. Her addition film credits include a starring role in “My Girl” and a performance in “Make Yourself at Home;’ an American independent film.

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Top Ten Armies in the World

01. The United States of America

United States of America is the number one super power in the world. It is the most influential country that contains the world’s strongest army and a powerful democracy, as well. United States reached to the highest powerful position after a long struggle and hard work. It is more commonly known as the Super power and it contains a highly influential media. This country is a prestigious and influential member of a number of influential bodies.

02. Russian Federation

This country contains the world’s second most powerful army and it controls several states in the Central

Asian region. This country contains a large population. Due to its heavy population, it is safe from all kind of external influences on its internal politics, economic and financial issues.It can turn into a super power due to its powerful force.

03. Peoples Republic of China

This country contains the world’s 4th largest GNP. This country has received supremacy over France and Great Britain in last few years. This country contains a large and powerful army.

04. France

It is the world’s 5th most powerful country and it is the prestigious and influential member of UN Security Council. It is a nuclear power country with the influence on many African nations.

05. Britain

Britain is the member of UN Security Council and it is a powerful nuclear country. It is considered to have the world’s most stable democracy. This country influences on world politics. It is number one in music, films, media and other activities. This country is also the member of European Union.

06. Japan

Japan contains a large economy and it is one of the leading democratic power countries. This country has a large population but due to tough competition, it comes after above five countries.

07. Republic of India

This country is very popular and contains a powerful democracy. It is a rapidly growing country and it is a nuclear power.

08. Federal Republic of Germany

t contains the world’s third largest economy and it is the most influential and powerful member of the European Union. Germany lost much of its influence on world during the WWII.

09. Pakistan

Pakistan has a large population of Muslims and it is a nuclear power. It has one of the strongest world armies. It has greatly influenced by dictatorship and military interference and due to which its democracy becomes weak. This country has a great potential to grow.

10. Republic of Brazil

It is a large Latin American county, it is considered to have the world’s largest Portuguese speaking population. This country has an influential and stable media. This country has secure relations with rest of the world.

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Top 10 Countries That Banned Christmas

1. United States:

When Puritans arrived in America in 1620 they were against Christmas. They called the holiday the “Foolstide” and banned their followers from celebrating it until 18th century. The only holiday they accepted was the Sabbath. When the governor of the Massachusetts colony, Sir Edmund Andros tried to sponsor Christian Day services, he was flanked by redcoats. The opposition continued even past 1800s.
Recently, news spread that a school in Texas banned Santa and a school in California banned Christmas Trees and poinsettias, stipulating they were too religious.

2. Albania:

In 1967, a ban on religious activity was official. The ban was not lifted until 1991 when the communist state fell. Christians were able to attend Christmas service for the first time In 23 years in December of 1990.

3. North Korea:

There are no holidays in North Korea, except for the ones which celebrate the birthdays of its leaders (e.g. the late Kim Jong-il). They even claimed that South Korea’s attempt in placing Christmas Lights on display was an act of psychological warfare.

4. Saudi Arabia:

If you are visiting Saudi Arabia or working as a teacher in the country, do not expect any holidays on Christmas. In fact Christmas cards and Christmas trees are banned from the country. The country follows strict Islamic mores, which means that the rulers consider themselves key guardians of faith.

5. Iran:
Religious freedom is curtailed in the country. This is not surprising as many women are being caught for indecent dressing and people are prosecuted for their beliefs.


6. England:

Oliver Cromwell is a famous British politician. From 1649 to 1653, Parliament was in charge of England. Cromwell took charge effectively in 1653. Puritan born, Cromwell banned Christmas. He wanted people to think about Jesus and not eat and drink too much.

7. Cuba:

Fidel Castro is another Grinch. He banned Christmas when taking power in 1959. The ban was in place until 1999 when Pope John Paul II persuaded him to revisit his decision.

8. Japan:
Christianity is not a major religion in Japan, comprising less than 1% of the total population. Christmas is thus seen as a secular holiday and is not official.

9. China:

In 2009, police cracked down on religious freedom on Christmas Day. China like many other communist states is a secular country with predominant atheists. It is thus why officials are not embracing the religion positively.

10. Algeria:
Christmas season is reflected upon the flag. The flag shows the moon and a star on it. This is usually the case, given that 99% of the population is Islam.

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Top 10 States That Are Failing (As Of 2011)

1. Syria:

Syria has been through an internal struggle since January of 2011. The situation became worse as protestors demanded the resignation of the President, Bashar al-Assad. Assad has not been co-operative and has resisted protests and their calls for democracy. He has resorted to violence, murdering protestors and children using security forces.
Arab springs have not been kind to opposing and militaristic leaders. In Libya, Quadaffi met an untimely fate when he refused to step down. The Egyptian President had no other choice but to step down before further violence ensued. It is thus a matter of time until Assad is overthrown, the easy way or the hard way.

2. Somalia:

Somalia has topped the list of Failed States for 4 years now. The crisis is a failure in the international community. It is also a disgrace in the eyes of Americans who saw the 1990s intervention as a complete disaster.

3. Chad:

This country is second to Somalia on the list provided by Fund for Peace. They continuously are threatened by regional and domestic instabilities. Cross border attacks between Sudanese and Chadian forces have contributed to the destabilization of the state.

4. Sudan:

Sudan topped the charts of Failed Nations categorized by Fund for Peace at # 3. It is vulnerable to high fertility rates, malnutrition and food and water scarcity. Population Institute reports that 49% of births are attended by a physician, increasing mortality rates significantly. The institute also report that 6% of women use contraceptives. The state has done nothing to address these issues.

5. Democratic Republic of Congo:

This country was ranked as #4 on the 2011 list of Failed States prepared by Fund for Peace. The state has a role of protecting its citizens, except in this case. World Dialogue reported that when the Lord’s Resistance Army invaded an eastern province in D.R.C in 2008, the latter government was absent. It failed to carry-out three elementary and important functions of a modern state. World Dialogue reports that these functions include: “1) ensuring the security of the national territory, its inhabitants and their property; 2) providing economic, social and cultural services to the population as a whole (service delivery); and 3) mobilising the resources needed to fulfil all state functions (revenue collection)”. With failed elections in November of 2011, things are not looking any better for the people of D.R.C.

 6. Haiti:

Haiti has been included on this list by Fund for Peace. The state has suffered a blow during the 2010 earthquake. The Presidential palace was unable to withhold the tremors. In 2011, the country moved up 6 spots on the index.

7. North Korea:

North Korea has suffered a tremendous loss of their Dear Leader, Kim Jong-Il, on December 17, 2011. The new leader, Kim Jong-un is inexperienced and young. He also had only 2 years of preparation, according to The Daily Beast. Is this enough for him to keep running a state embroiled in famine, hunger, poverty and political corruption? Only time will tell.

8. Russia:

Large oppositions have arisen against Putin and his powers in Russia. Many protestors have lined up on the streets of Moscow to demand fair and non-rigged elections. Could this be enough to bring down Putin? We can only wait and see. What we already know is that the protestors are persistent. Putin may not have any other choice.

9. Zimbabwe:

This country has also topped the list of Failed States, despite power sharing agreement in place. The country is rocked by political instability, government repression and economic poverty.

10. Iraq:

The future of this country is uncertain as the Vice-President keeps on supporting violence in the country. The withdrawal of United States forces has seen more instability than ever before. Future is uncertain in this case as well.

Resources:
Word Dialogue, http://www.worlddialogue.org/
Population Institute, http://www.populationinstitute.org/

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