WASHINGTON — Canada has been named one of the most peaceful nations in the world for its support of UN peacekeeping missions, low levels of violent crime and political stability.

The Global Symposium of Peaceful Nations named Canada as the most peaceful country in the North and Central America and Caribbean region and put it eighth place worldwide on its global peace index.

Ambassador Gary Doer accepted the award at the symposium in Washington on Sunday.

The group says the world is facing threats from climate change, water shortages, economic collapse and an energy crisis.

While the frequency and severity of violent conflicts is declining, the pressure from the threats could easily trigger a dramatic increase in large-scale violence, the group warned.

Eighteen countries from around the world were recognized and honoured at the inaugural Global Symposium of Peaceful Nations.