Europe's Homicide Rate Has Fallen Dramatically

What We’re Showing

This graphic shows the homicide rates for the U.S., UK, and Europe, based on data from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes, CNN, and Our World in Data. Europe covers 47 countries and territories as classified by the United Nations, including the UK, with data unavailable for some places in certain years. 

Key Takeaways

• In 2006, the U.S. surpassed Europe in homicides per 100,000 people
• The UK homicide rate is less than half of the overall rate across Europe and about one-sixth of the rate in the U.S.
• Though the time periods of peaks don't necessarily line up, many European nations saw a similar rise and fall of homicides over the last few decades