Pakistan Tops Global Terrorism Index 2026 Amid Rising Violence

Pakistan has been ranked as the most terrorism-affected country in the Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2026, marking a sharp resurgence in militant violence. The report, released by the Institute for Economics and Peace, records 1,139 deaths and 1,045 incidents in Pakistan during 2025, the highest levels since 2013. With a score of 8.57, Pakistan replaced Burkina Faso at the top, returning to this position for the first time since 2011.

Drivers behind the surge

The increase in terrorism has been linked to intensified activity by groups such as Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA). The report highlights that regional instability and strained relations with neighbouring countries have contributed to rising insecurity. Cross-border tensions and internal militant networks have together escalated the threat landscape.

Global distribution of terrorism

Despite Pakistan’s top ranking, sub-Saharan Africa continues to dominate the global terrorism map. Countries such as Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, Mali and Somalia remain among the most affected. Other nations in the top ten include Syria, Israel and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Globally, terrorism-related deaths declined by 28 per cent to 5,582 in 2025, while incidents fell to their lowest level since 2007.

India’s position and regional context

India is ranked 13th in the GTI 2026 with a score of 6.43. The country recorded over 140 incidents, more than 100 fatalities and over 100 injuries in 2025. Afghanistan stands just outside the top ten, while Myanmar follows India. Iran is placed 18th and the United States ranks 28th, reflecting varied regional patterns of terrorism impact.

What to Note for UPSC Prelims?

• The Global Terrorism Index is published by the Institute for Economics and Peace.
• It covers 163 countries, representing over 99 per cent of the global population.
• Pakistan ranked first in GTI 2026, while India ranked 13th.
• Terrorism deaths globally declined in 2025 despite regional spikes.

Emerging global threats and trends

The report identifies the Islamic State (IS) and its affiliates as the deadliest terrorist network, responsible for nearly 17 per cent of global attacks. Along with IS, groups such as JNIM, TTP and al-Shabaab accounted for the majority of terrorism-related deaths. It also warns of rising youth radicalisation and lone-wolf attacks, particularly in Western countries. Additionally, escalating tensions in West Asia raise concerns about potential new centres of extremist activity.