It seems like with every day that passes, our world teeters closer along the edge of a third global conflict. We have a major conflict in Europe raging between Russia and Ukraine, which is also about to feature North Korean troops on the ground fighting alongside Russian soldiers. Along with that, there’s the battle between Israel, Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran in the Middle East. Honestly, it feels like a third world war is all but inevitable at this point.
One of the questions folks are asking in such tense, dangerous times is what they can do or where they can go to keep their families safe if World War 3 really does erupt on the global stage? We’re going to discuss some of the safe places you and your family can flee to when things go south.
There are several factors to consider when you are looking at a place as a potential safe haven.
The first is its geography.
First and most obvious, distance plays an important role in shielding your family, your assets, and yourself from danger in turbulent times. Of course, you’d prefer to be far from not only major conflict zones but also countries and locations that may become high-interest military targets.
The second is self-sufficiency.
Expect disruptions along global trade routes – especially if your current nationality’s government allies with an aggressor – as everyday staples like food and fuel may become scarce. Your next city’s or country’s ability to produce enough crops, energy, and other essential resources independently is vital for survival during prolonged disruptions.
Thirdly, you need to assess the strategic value of the location.
Even if you’re not the intended target, you don’t want to find yourself in the crosshairs of a large-scale military event. Think of it like a bullseye: Clearly, you’d prefer to be on the outer edge of that target than anywhere near the center. Therefore, locations of low strategic value are less likely to be involved in direct conflict. Prioritize a residence in those locations.
You may also want to consider residency and potential citizenship in this new location, particularly if the war drags on for a lengthy amount of time. It’s not beyond the realm of possibility that you will need to put some roots down for awhile, so having a more permanent place to call home is a good idea. Consider how easy or difficult it might end up being to gain citizenship and the process you would have to go through in order to do so.
Okay so what about places you might be able to go if things hit the fan?
Switzerland
Being the “next Switzerland” or the “Switzerland of X region” is typically a compliment and testament to a country’s prowess. But it may not be in the event World War 3 breaks out. Switzerland’s mountainous terrain, lack of membership in the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), well-armed population, and long-standing policy of neutrality have historically protected it from conflicts, even during the first two World Wars on its doorstep. But we expect that to change as European bureaucrats seemingly begging for a multi-front war may bring it up on themselves.
Switzerland has a robust economy and a strong agricultural sector for its size, but while the country runs a trade surplus (World Bank), Switzerland is reliant on its global trade partners for much of its food and fuel. The country’s highly developed wealth and financial sector also make it a strategic, valuable target for an antagonist.
One of the big cons of considering Switzerland is, of course, citizenship. It takes at least a decade to become a full-fledged citizen of the country and that can make gaining access to certain benefits and help a challenge.
Australia and New Zealand
New Zealand and Australia are located “down under” and is geographically located far away from major conflict zones, despite China, a fearsome global powerhouse, being located not too far in the distance. Another perk of these two countries is their level of self-sufficiency, especially when it comes to food and fuel. Both are major agricultural producers and have a wealth of natural resources, including energy.
But those attributes alone are not enough to make Australia and New Zealand the ultimate WW3 safe havens. These countries’ strong alliance with Western militaries could make them targets in a broader conflict. Additionally, you cannot just waltz into Australia and New Zealand to obtain citizenship. At the very least, it’ll typically take four years to gain nationality.
Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Chile
Believe it or not, these four locations are likely the ultimate safe haven in times of global conflict and here’s why. When it comes to geographical shielding this area, known as the “Southern Cone” is located a long distance from any of the major world powers and conflict zones, which provides natural protection from World War 3. South America itself is one of the most peaceful regions on the planet, only having suffered through one out of the 20 largest wars in the last three centuries.
The Southern Cone is one of the most self-sufficient regions in the world, particularly in terms of food production. Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay are known for their vast agricultural output, producing large quantities of grains, meat, and dairy products; far more than they could ever hope to consume themselves. And, on the other side of the Andes, Chile is a major producer of grapes and wine, seafood, and fruits and also has significant renewable energy resources.
Historically, Southern Cone countries have maintained a low profile in global political and military affairs. Neither Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, nor Uruguay is involved in a major international conflict. Furthermore, the region doesn’t host significant foreign military bases. Maybe because the Southern Cone is literally not on the way to anywhere. The Southern Cone is unlikely to play a strategic role or become a battleground in a global conflict.
Argentina’s Rentista Visa allows foreign nationals to enter the country on an independent means visa if they can prove a recurring monthly income of about US$2,000 from rental profits, a pension, social security, or investment dividends. Curiously, they can qualify for naturalization in just two years, while permanent residence is a three-year path.
Let’s hope and pray this never a plan you and your family have to execute.
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