World's most and least peaceful countries ranked

The Institute for Economics and Peace has compiled a list of 162 countries outlining where violence is most and least prevalent.

Iceland is the most peaceful place in the world based on the organization's assessment.

Its Nordic neighbors Denmark and Finland were also determined to be particularly safe, tranquil places.

The United States ranked right around the middle, at 94.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Iraq and Syria are the most conflicted areas on Earth.

Afghanistan, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic weren't too far behind.

Others among the 10 most violent nations include the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Pakistan, and North Korea.

Russia barely escaped inclusion in that short list, being designated as having the 11th lowest state of peace.

Factors that were considered in compiling the list include instances of violent crime, the importing of weapons, and the size of a country's prison population.