The Global Terrorism Index 2026 presents a mixed global picture, showing a decline in terrorism while warning of persistent and evolving threats. In 2025, 5,582 deaths were recorded across 2,944 attacks, marking a 28% drop in fatalities and a 22% decline in incidents compared to the previous year.
Despite this improvement, terrorism remains concentrated in specific regions, particularly sub-Saharan Africa, with the Sahel region accounting for over half of global terrorism deaths. Countries like Pakistan, Burkina Faso, and Nigeria are among the most affected, collectively contributing to a large share of global casualties.
The report also highlights emerging concerns such as youth radicalization, cross-border terrorism, and the rise of lone-wolf attacks. Major terrorist groups including Islamic State (IS), Al-Shabaab, and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) continue to drive global violence.
India ranks 13th in the index, reflecting ongoing security challenges while maintaining relative stability compared to highly affected nations. The findings underscore the need for continued global cooperation, strategic security measures, and focus on new-age threats.
Overall, while terrorism incidents have declined globally, the shifting geographical focus and evolving nature of threats demand sustained vigilance and proactive policy responses.
