10 safest countries to live in if World War III happens (2024)

TRAVEL TRENDS, WORLD Updated : Feb 26, 2024, 12:55 IST

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10 safest countries to live in if World War III happens

The global landscape is teetering on the brink of World War III, marked by the widespread spectre of terrorism enveloping more than half of the planet, coupled with the depletion of critical natural resources like water and oil. Then there is also the presence of influential yet war-minded leadership in superpowers, and escalating tensions between nations, exemplified by conflicts such as Russia and Ukraine, Israel and Palestine, and India and China.

In such a scenario, there are certain highly neutral countries that stand out, presenting the possibility of being spared if World War III erupts. These nations are also characterised by their geographical remoteness, and abundant resources, present themselves as ideal destinations to weather the storm of global conflict.

If you are curious to know more, here are 10 of the safest countries in this precarious geopolitical climate.

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Antarctica

While not a country, Antarctica, the vast southernmost continent, earns a place on this list due to its extreme isolation. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and icy terrains, this continent remains unlikely to witness the footfall of many, given its position as the most southerly point on the planet.

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03

Fiji

Nestled in the expansive Pacific Ocean, Fiji stands as an isolated island nation characterized by a modest population and a commitment to a tranquil foreign policy. Its verdant forests, rich mineral resources, and abundant fishing grounds render Fiji an attractive sanctuary amid global uncertainties, providing a peaceful haven far removed from potential threats.

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04

Iceland

This place has been consistently topping the list of the Global Peace Index, which makes Iceland is a secluded haven. Dotted with abundant fresh water reserves, marine resources, and renewable energy sources, Iceland achieves self-sufficiency, mitigating worries about reliance on other countries for essential resources.

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05

Greenland

While Denmark, part of the European Union and NATO, may face the brunt of any war outbreak in Europe, Greenland, an autonomous constituent country, remains strategically distant and politically non-aligned. Its remote, mountainous terrain makes it an advantageous location for survival in the event of an attack.

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06

New Zealand

New Zealand, with its stable democracy and a history free from war conflicts, stands as another hidden away and developed nation. With fertile soil, clean water, and a capability to produce its own food, New Zealand's mountainous terrains offer natural shelters in the face of potential invasion.

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Bhutan

Surrounded by the Himalayas, Bhutan's unique location provides excellent shelter, tucked away and concealed from potential threats. With a commitment to foreign independence and a careful avoidance of diplomatic entanglements, Bhutan remains an illogical target for invasion.

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08

Ireland

Despite its proximity to potential conflict in England, Ireland maintains a totally independent foreign policy and refrains from NATO membership. Its military neutrality and the requirement for government approval and UN authorization for foreign conflicts make Ireland a neutral entity.

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09

Switzerland

Switzerland, renowned for its political neutrality, features mountainous terrain, a landlocked geography, and numerous nuclear shelters. Even if nukes were to land there, the Swiss populace is well-protected with bunkers and surrounded by mountains, creating a formidable defence against neighbouring war-torn countries.

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Indonesia

Indonesia's inclusion on this list stems from its traditionally neutral position on global political matters, embodied by a 'free and active' foreign policy. The country focuses on independent action in international affairs and is committed to fostering global peace.

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11

Tuvalu

Lying within the vast expanses of the Pacific Ocean, Tuvalu is an extremely secluded and politically non-aligned nation. Its small population and negligible resources provide no incentive for major countries involved in a world war to target it. Uniquely self-sufficient, Tuvalu's people produce their own food and necessities, ensuring their independence and likely isolation in a war scenario.

    10 safest countries to live in if World War III happens (2024)

    FAQs

    What's the safest country if WWIII starts? ›

    New Zealand, with its stable democracy and a history free from war conflicts, stands as another hidden away and developed nation. With fertile soil, clean water, and a capability to produce its own food, New Zealand's mountainous terrains offer natural shelters in the face of potential invasion.

    Which country is least likely to be affected by war? ›

    Iceland remains the most peaceful country in the world in 2021, a position it has held since 2008. It is joined at the top of the index by New Zealand, Denmark, Portugal, and Slovenia.

    Where is the best place to survive World War 3? ›

    Given its remote location, it is unlikely to be visited by many people in the event of a possible Third World War.
    • Fiji. Fiji is an island nation located in the southwestern part of the Pacific Ocean. ...
    • Iceland. ...
    • Argentina. ...
    • New Zealand. ...
    • Butane. ...
    • Ireland. ...
    • Switzerland. ...
    • Indonesia.

    Which countries would be involved in WWIII? ›

    What countries do Britons think would be involved in a third world war?
    • USA. ...
    • Russia. ...
    • Iran. ...
    • China. ...
    • North Korea. ...
    • Poland.
    Feb 1, 2024

    Where is the safest place to go if ww3 breaks out? ›

    New Zealand and Australia could be among the safest places on the planet in the event of World War III. They are surrounded by water on all sides, have a temperate climate, and, most importantly, no deepwater ports that could be used by enemy landing forces for attack and logistical purposes.

    What to do if WW3 starts? ›

    “Doomsday Prepping”
    1. Start preparing your emergency survival kit. Now there are tons of stuff you can hoard for a bad day. ...
    2. Create an Emergency Plan with your loved ones. Make sure everyone is aware of where each of you will be and where to meet up after a nuclear event.

    What is the most feared country in war? ›

    The 12 Most Dangerous Countries in the World
    1. Afghanistan. With a 2023 score of 3.448 (slightly safer than 2022's 3.554), Afghanistan remains the most dangerous country in the world for the sixth year in a row. ...
    2. Yemen. ...
    3. Syria. ...
    4. South Sudan. ...
    5. DR Congo. ...
    6. Russia. ...
    7. Ukraine.

    Where does the US rank in safety? ›

    The United States ranks at 129th with a score of 2.44, marking the country's score "low." Just above the U.S. is Azerbaijan, and just below is Brazil.

    What countries would survive a nuclear war? ›

    Researchers found Australia, New Zealand, Iceland, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu most capable of continuing to produce food despite the reduced sunlight and fall in temperatures - and help reboot a collapsed human civilisation.

    How do I prepare for World War 3? ›

    1. Understanding Essential Supplies. In times of crisis, access to necessities becomes critical. Stockpile non-perishable food, water, medical supplies, and other essential items to sustain yourself and your family during a potential doomsday scenario.

    Where would enemies nuke the US? ›

    A Primary Target for Annihilation

    But from there, as counterforce evolves into counter-value, Russian missiles would begin targeting larger cities, including New York, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. (Note that Washington, D.C. would most likely have already been hit in the first wave of attacks.)

    Will World War III be fought on American soil? ›

    It is highly unlikely, as the US has many unique advantages over any other power on the globe right now and for the next few decades. We have, by far, the most technologically advanced, well-equipped military. Most people don't realize that the US is the only country that has any large scale transport capability…

    Where is the best place to survive a nuclear war? ›

    The best locations are underground and in the middle of larger buildings. While commuting, identify appropriate shelters to seek in the event of a detonation. Outdoor areas, vehicles and mobile homes do NOT provide adequate shelter. Look for basem*nts or the center of large multi-story buildings.

    Is nuclear war likely? ›

    At the heart of all of this work is a chilling conclusion: The possibility of a nuclear strike, once inconceivable in modern conflict, is more likely now than at any other time since the Cold War.

    Will Australia be safe in World War III? ›

    Australia and New Zealand are widely regarded as the best places to survive a nuclear apocalypse. They're strategically insignificant. They're isolated.

    Which is the safest country in the world? ›

    Profiles of the World's 10 Safest Countries
    1. Iceland. According to the Global Peace Index, Iceland is the safest country in the world for the 14th year in a row. ...
    2. New Zealand. New Zealand is the second-safest country in the world. ...
    3. Ireland. ...
    4. Denmark. ...
    5. Austria. ...
    6. Portugal. ...
    7. Slovenia. ...
    8. Czech Republic.

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