About the index
Global Terrorism Index 2026 Highlights and Trends: The Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2026 is released by the Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP), a Sydney-based think tank. It measures the impact of terrorism across countries using indicators like terrorist incidents, fatalities, injuries, and property damage.
The index provides a comprehensive analysis of global terrorism trends, helping policymakers understand evolving threats. It is widely used for security assessment and policy formulation.
Static GK fact: The Institute for Economics and Peace also publishes the Global Peace Index, which ranks countries based on peacefulness.
Key global findings
Pakistan ranked as the most terrorism-affected country in the latest index. The country recorded the highest score, indicating a severe impact of terrorist activities.
Nearly 70% of global terrorism deaths occurred in just five countries: Pakistan, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Niger, and Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This shows a high concentration of terrorism in specific regions, especially Africa and South Asia.
There has been a significant global decline in terrorism. Deaths due to terrorism fell by around 28%, while the number of attacks declined by approximately 22% compared to previous years.
Static GK Tip: Burkina Faso and Niger are part of the Sahel region in Africa, which has become a hotspot for extremist violence.
Deadliest terrorist organisations
The report identified four major terrorist organisations responsible for maximum casualties in 2025. These include Islamic State (IS), Jamaat Nusrat Al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM), Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and al-Shabaab.
These groups are primarily active in West Asia, South Asia, and Africa, contributing significantly to instability. Their operations include suicide attacks, armed assaults, and insurgency activities.
Static GK fact: Al-Shabaab is mainly active in Somalia and is affiliated with Al-Qaeda.
India’s position
India ranked 13th in the Global Terrorism Index 2026, reflecting a moderate level of terrorism impact. While India continues to face challenges, especially in certain regions, the overall situation has shown relative stability.
Efforts such as improved counter-terrorism measures, intelligence coordination, and border security have contributed to managing threats effectively.
Static GK Tip: India has specialized agencies like the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to deal with terrorism-related cases.
Trends and implications
The decline in global terrorism deaths suggests improved security measures and counter-terrorism strategies. However, the concentration of violence in a few countries indicates persistent regional instability.
The rise of terrorist groups in Africa highlights a shift in the global terrorism landscape. Addressing root causes such as poverty, political instability, and weak governance remains crucial.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Global Terrorism Index 2026 Highlights and Trends:
| Topic | Detail |
| Report Name | Global Terrorism Index 2026 |
| Publisher | Institute for Economics and Peace |
| Top Ranked Country | Pakistan |
| Major Affected Countries | Pakistan, Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Niger, DRC |
| Death Share | Around 70% in 5 countries |
| Decline in Deaths | 28% reduction |
| Decline in Attacks | Around 22% reduction |
| Deadliest Groups | IS, JNIM, TTP, al-Shabaab |
| India Rank | 13th |
| Key Trend | Terrorism concentrated in specific regions |
