Global Terrorism Index 2026: Key Findings, Pakistan Rank 1, India at 13
Context:
The Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2026 has recently been released by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). The report provides a comprehensive analysis of terrorism trends across 163 countries, covering approximately 99.7% of the world’s population. The index ranks countries on a scale of 0 (no impact) to 10 (maximum impact) based on four indicators: incidents, fatalities, injuries, and hostages. Based on data from 2025, the report presents a detailed assessment of the evolving nature of terrorism, casualty patterns, and geopolitical implications worldwide.
Key Findings of the Report:
-
-
- Global Trends: In 2025, deaths due to terrorism declined by 28%, reaching 5,582, the lowest level since 2007. However, the fatality rate per attack increased by 14%, indicating that while the number of attacks decreased, they became more lethal.
- Pakistan Tops the Index: For the first time in the history of the index, Pakistan has been ranked as the most terrorism-affected country (Rank 1). In 2025, the country recorded 1,139 deaths, the highest since 2013. The increased activity of groups such as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) has been a major contributing factor.
- Sahel Region as the New Epicenter: The center of terrorism has shifted from the Middle East to the Central Sahel region (Sub-Saharan Africa). Countries like Burkina Faso, Niger, and Nigeria remain among the most severely affected. Nearly half of all global terrorism-related deaths occur in this region.
- Deadliest Terrorist Groups: The Islamic State (IS) has remained the world’s deadliest terrorist organization for the ninth consecutive year. It is followed by JNIM (Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin), TTP, and Al-Shabaab.
- Rise in Western Countries: The report highlights a concerning trend of a 280% increase in terrorism-related deaths in Western countries. This rise is attributed to political polarization, ideologically driven violence, and online radicalization.
- Global Trends: In 2025, deaths due to terrorism declined by 28%, reaching 5,582, the lowest level since 2007. However, the fatality rate per attack increased by 14%, indicating that while the number of attacks decreased, they became more lethal.
-
India’s Position:
The report presents a positive outlook for India. The country’s ranking has improved, placing it at 13th position.
India has witnessed a 43% reduction in the impact of terrorism. This decline is largely due to enhanced security measures and developmental initiatives in Jammu & Kashmir and areas affected by Left-Wing Extremism.
Important Analytical Insights:
-
-
- Vulnerability of Border Regions: Approximately 76% of terrorist attacks occur within 100 km of international borders, highlighting the importance of robust border management for countries like India.
- Technology and Radicalization: The rapid radicalization of youth through digital platforms is an emerging concern. The report notes a threefold increase in terrorism-related investigations involving youth since 2021.
- Terror Financing: Despite international cooperation, terror financing through cryptocurrencies and illicit trade continues to pose a significant challenge.
- Vulnerability of Border Regions: Approximately 76% of terrorist attacks occur within 100 km of international borders, highlighting the importance of robust border management for countries like India.
-
Conclusion:
While there has been an overall global decline in terrorism, it is becoming more concentrated, adaptive, and region-specific.India must continue its zero-tolerance policy and strengthen regional cooperation mechanisms such as SCO and BRICS to effectively combat cross-border terrorism.
