It’s a thought no one wants to entertain — yet nowadays, with news filled with escalating tensions, it’s difficult not to contemplate where you might find safety if World War III were to occur.
As we can all observe, the world is far from peaceful at the moment, and history indicates that conflicts tend to escalate, pulling more nations into the conflict.
Russia continues its assault in Ukraine, NATO frequently reports violations of airspace, China is still flexing its military might over Taiwan, the Middle East remains a volatile region, and North Korea consistently seizes opportunities to showcase its missile capabilities.
Europe has even started to issue guidelines for “survival kits,” and certain schools in Germany have been instructed to prepare students for potential wartime situations. To add to this, tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela have reached their most perilous level yet.
If the world were to plunge into a global conflict — even one involving nuclear weapons — is there anywhere that could truly provide safety?
The stark reality is that no place would be entirely immune. However, certain areas are frequently highlighted as the best options for weathering a global crisis, owing to their geography, neutrality, and seclusion.
Here are some of the safest spots around the globe, organized by continent — along with a few unexpected mentions.
New Zealand
New Zealand is essentially the ideal example of “where to escape when everything goes wrong.” Its nearest neighbor is a staggering 1,200 miles away, and it is distanced from major military hotspots. Although it collaborates with NATO, it isn’t a primary target.
This Pacific nation ranks third on the Global Peace Index and is largely self-sufficient, with recent studies identifying it as the top option for enduring a significant crisis.
For those seeking a location nearer to the U.S., certain areas in Western Australia — particularly Perth — are also highly isolated and rich in resources.
Iceland
Iceland is frequently recognized as the most peaceful country in the world. While it has established bilateral agreements with Ukraine, its role is primarily limited to providing financial assistance and minor logistical support.
Due to its isolated position in the North Atlantic, Iceland is likely to evade the direct consequences of conventional warfare in Europe, although some nuclear fallout from the continent could potentially reach it.
Despite being a NATO member, the country enjoys the perks of its isolation, plentiful geothermal energy, and the absence of hostile neighbors. While the occasional volcanic eruption can be quite dramatic, it remains significantly safer than being close to an active war zone.
Chile
Chile is fortunate to have natural defenses, with the Andes Mountains to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west providing excellent geographic protection.
The continent itself is far removed from the world’s primary conflict zones, which adds an extra layer of security for Chile.
Its coastline stretches nearly 4,000 miles, roughly the same distance as from Moscow to Madrid, offering both seclusion and ample space.
The nation is abundant in crops and natural resources, which facilitates self-sustainability. Coupled with some of the most advanced infrastructure and development in South America, Chile emerges as a strong candidate for safety and stability.
Botswana
Southern Africa is geographically distanced from global military hotspots. Botswana, in particular, is stable, rich in resources, and maintains a non-aligned stance.
Namibia and the remote areas of South Africa can provide similar benefits.
Bhutan
Nestled deep in the Himalayas, Bhutan is both isolated and neutral, making it exceptionally difficult to access. Its mountainous landscape offers natural protection that few other nations can match.
This tiny, landlocked nation, situated between India and China, enjoys the advantages of its seclusion and neutrality, which keeps it off the radar as a potential target in any worldwide nuclear conflict.
Switzerland
Switzerland is the nation most associated with political neutrality, a position it has upheld even throughout World War II.
Its landlocked position, rugged landscape, and comprehensive system of nuclear shelters offer considerable safety. Almost every household has access to a bomb shelter, and the country produces a large portion of its own food, ensuring a high degree of self-sufficiency.
Switzerland has also avoided getting involved in the Ukraine conflict, even going so far as to block the delivery of Swiss-made weapons that were purchased by other European nations, which has led some to claim that it is showing favoritism towards Russia.
For over two centuries, Switzerland has maintained its neutrality and is well-known for its readiness in civil defense, making it one of the safest options in Europe should a global conflict arise.
Antarctica
While not a country, it is certainly removed from global conflict. There are no permanent residents, no military presence, and no strategic importance.
Harsh? Definitely. Living in Antarctica would be challenging without thorough preparation, but for those who are well-equipped, it might just be the safest location in the world during a potential World War III.
Argentina
The vast expanse and relative seclusion of Argentina position it as a strong candidate for safety during a global crisis. The nation produces significant amounts of food and possesses plentiful natural resources, all while largely staying out of major geopolitical disputes.
Although Argentina has experienced war in the past, particularly the Falklands conflict in 1982, its agricultural production renders it one of the most resilient countries when faced with famine.
With abundant crops, such as wheat, the nation would be in a better position than many if a nuclear winter or any other global catastrophe were to hinder sunlight and food production.
Fiji
Fiji is located approximately 2,700 miles away from its closest neighbor, Australia. During World War II, the country faced threats from Japan for several years, yet it emerged from the war relatively unscathed.
With a non-aggressive military stance and a modest defense force of only 6,000 personnel, this island nation consistently ranks high on the Global Peace Index.
Canada (remote places)
Canada is vast, with much of it being uninhabited wilderness.
Although Canadian cities may be at risk as NATO centers, the interior and northern regions provide isolation, abundant natural resources, clean water, and ample space to vanish if needed.
Tuvalu and the Pacific Islands
Small nations like Tuvalu, Samoa, and Kiribati are nearly unnoticed on the global stage — which, during a worldwide conflict, could be precisely what you desire. They lack strategic importance, have no adversaries, and possess sufficient natural resources for basic survival.
Is there a country or region you believe would be the perfect place to retreat to if a global conflict arises? Feel free to share your ideas in the comments!
