Introduction
The Global Terrorism Index (GTI) 2025 reveals a concerning surge in terrorist attacks worldwide, reversing nearly a decade of decline. According to the latest data, the number of countries affected by terrorist incidents has increased from 58 to 66. Among the most affected nations, Pakistan has worsened, moving from the 4th to the 2nd position, while India retains its 14th rank.
This blog provides an in-depth analysis of the latest global terrorism trends, identifying key regions and nations most impacted by terrorist activities.
Key Findings: Global Surge in Terrorist Attacks
Increase in Terrorist Incidents:
In 2023, there were 517 attacks, which more than doubled to 1,099 attacks in 2024.
Africa’s Sahel region (Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger) has become the epicenter of terrorism, accounting for 51% of global terror-related deaths.
Terrorism in this region has increased tenfold since 2009.
Impact of the Gaza Conflict:
A sharp rise in antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents was reported globally.
In the United States, antisemitic attacks increased by 200%, while Islamophobic incidents surged by 300%.
The United Kingdom saw 219 terrorism-related arrests in 2024, with 42% of suspects under 18 years old.
Western Nations Experience Increased Terrorism After 7 Years
For the first time in seven years, terrorist incidents have increased in Western countries. The nature of terrorism in these regions has also evolved:
93% of attacks in the West were carried out by lone wolf attackers, rather than organized groups.
Social media, gaming platforms, and encrypted messaging apps have become major sources of radicalization.
Germany emerged as the most affected European nation, rising from 40th to 27th position in the Global Terrorism Index.
Sweden, Australia, Finland, the Netherlands, Denmark, and Switzerland witnessed terrorist incidents for the first time in five years.
Despite a 7% decline in terrorism-related deaths in the Middle East, the ongoing Gaza conflict has heightened tensions.
India’s Position in Global Terrorism Index 2025
India remains ranked 14th, similar to the previous year.
Pakistan’s ranking deteriorated, moving from 4th to 2nd, with a 45% increase in terrorist-related deaths (1,081 casualties).
Bangladesh improved its ranking, moving from 32nd to 35th position.
Top 10 Most Affected Countries by Terrorism
The following countries are the most affected by terrorism based on their GTI score:
| Rank | Country | GTI Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Burkina Faso | 8.581 |
| 2 | Pakistan | 8.374 |
| 3 | Syria | 8.006 |
| 4 | Mali | 7.907 |
| 5 | Niger | 7.776 |
| 6 | Nigeria | 7.658 |
| 7 | Somalia | 7.614 |
| 8 | Israel | 7.463 |
| 9 | Afghanistan | 7.262 |
| 10 | Cameroon | 6.944 |
Conclusion
The Global Terrorism Index 2025 underscores the resurgence of terrorist activities worldwide, particularly in Africa’s Sahel region and South Asia. While India’s ranking remains unchanged, the increase in lone wolf attacks in the West and rising terrorist incidents in Pakistan are notable concerns.
Addressing these challenges requires global cooperation, intelligence sharing, and stronger counterterrorism measures to curb radicalization and terrorist financing.
"Global Terrorism Index 2025: India ranked 14th, Pakistan worsens to 2nd place, and global terrorist incidents rise. Read the full analysis."
Read more on **Global Terrorism Trends - Institute for Economics & Peace"
By Team Atharva Examwise #atharvaexamwise
