Where to Hide If the World Goes to War: Ten of the Safest Places on Earth
No one wants to imagine a global conflict erupting, yet recent geopolitical tensions remind us that thinking ahead isn’t entirely irrational. If World War III were to break out, where could someone actually be safe?
Military strategists, survival experts, and historical precedent all point to the same conclusion: safety comes from distance, neutrality, and self-sufficiency. While no place is completely immune to disaster, some regions offer far better odds of survival than others.
Here are ten locations that could provide the best refuge in the unlikely event of global war.
1. New Zealand
Renowned for its remoteness, New Zealand sits in the South Pacific, far from the world’s major conflict zones. Its low population density, political neutrality, and agricultural self-reliance make it a strong candidate for safety. Coupled with renewable energy from hydro and geothermal sources, the country could sustain life even during global turmoil.
2. Switzerland
For over two centuries, Switzerland has maintained strict neutrality. Its mountainous terrain offers natural defense, and nearly every household has access to bomb shelters. With domestic food production and political stability, Switzerland has long been considered one of the world’s safest countries in times of conflict.
3. Iceland
Isolated in the North Atlantic, Iceland is another nation that benefits from geography. The absence of a standing army, a reliance on renewable energy, and its sparse population make it a low-risk target. Iceland’s combination of neutrality and self-sufficiency positions it well in any global crisis.
4. Antarctica
While uninhabited except for research stations, Antarctica is almost as isolated as it gets. The Antarctic Treaty prohibits military activity, and survival requires preparation and planning. Its remoteness and lack of resources make it one of the least likely places to be affected by warfare.
5. Argentina
Far from the world’s primary flashpoints, Argentina’s southern regions—especially Patagonia—offer safety through isolation. Agriculture and energy resources support self-sufficiency, and natural barriers like the Andes Mountains enhance security.
6. Ireland
Outside major military alliances and located on Europe’s western edge, Ireland has remained neutral in modern conflicts. Its strong food and water systems, peaceful governance, and geographical separation from continental Europe make it a relatively safe haven.
7. Canada (Remote Regions)
Canada’s massive interior offers seclusion from urban centers and military installations. Remote forests and farmland provide both sustenance and cover, while clean water and a stable political system improve survival odds in a large-scale conflict.
8. Tuvalu and Other Pacific Islands
Small island nations like Tuvalu, Samoa, and Kiribati enjoy natural protection due to their remoteness. While limited resources pose challenges, their isolation and lack of military significance make them unlikely targets during global conflict.
9. Bhutan
This Himalayan kingdom, tucked between India and China, prioritizes peace, sustainability, and happiness. Its rugged mountains offer natural defense, while local agriculture and a small population enhance safety in times of global instability.
10. Chile
Chile’s long, narrow geography stretches along South America’s western coast. Protected by the Andes and the Pacific, and largely self-reliant in food and energy, its southern regions are especially remote, making them ideal for avoiding potential conflict zones.
What Makes a Location Safe?
Isolation from military targets, political neutrality, self-sufficient food and energy systems, and strong infrastructure are all critical. The more remote and self-reliant a region is, the higher the chances of surviving large-scale global instability.
Planning Ahead
While the hope is that global war never comes, understanding which locations provide refuge is a pragmatic step. Countries like New Zealand, Switzerland, and Iceland offer geographic isolation and neutrality. Remote areas in Canada, Chile, and Argentina provide space and resources. Even tiny islands like Tuvalu demonstrate how isolation itself can be a form of protection.
Ultimately, knowledge, preparation, and foresight are your best tools. Considering safe havens in advance isn’t about fear—it’s about being ready, informed, and capable of protecting yourself and loved ones if the unimaginable ever occurs.