Politics and values are important when considering a place to live; your citizenship or country of birth shouldn’t be the sole defining factors. If you’re tired of the liberal extremes you’re seeing in the United States, here are 17 countries you may prefer.
Singapore
Singapore is almost designed for expats. It’s a nation with a much higher standard of living than many of its neighboring Asian countries. The education system is top-notch, with schooling geared for its graduates to work and live in Western culture. Especially appealing are the low crime rates and free market capitalist economy. It’s also known for respecting traditional values and conservative social policies.
Switzerland
If you’ve always dreamed of living in a fairy tale, Switzerland is for you. Though it’s in the center of Europe, it has a neutral foreign policy with a strong national defense. Switzerland takes the rights of property owners seriously, has low taxes, and has a tradition of direct democracy with local autonomy.
United Arab Emirates
There are almost no taxes in the UAE; recently, a VAT was introduced at 5%, but that’s where it ends. If you’re looking for conservative values, here are some you may enjoy: drinking is legal but stigmatized, sex outside of marriage is illegal, and swearing and gossiping can land you in prison. These might be a problem for some, but if they aren’t for you, the UAE may be a great option for your next move.
Poland
“Social policy in Poland means family. Both left and right, major parties boast that they support the idea of family, act in the favor of families, and make sure that families are safe.” A focus on family and its strong Christian cultural heritage can appeal to conservatives in the U.S., where both seem to be on the back burner.
Hungary
According to The European Conservative, “Hungary is unique in enthusiastically welcoming conservatives from all around the world, and offering them a space in which they can voice their convictions without constantly being hounded.” Government policies are in place to protect the national culture and tradition, with incentives for families. Hungary boasts a growing economy with a low cost of living, which is also appealing to families and singles alike.
Japan
Japan is known for its unmatched work ethic and respect for authority. Both of these aspects help keep crime rates low, which is crucial for choosing to make a move to a new country. The Japanese are proud of their culture and work to preserve their national identity.
Chile
Chile has one of the most stable economies in South America, with a focus on agriculture and the free market. Private property and individual entrepreneurship are respected. Chile has also managed to have very little corruption in its government and government services.
New Zealand
New Zealand is ranked second on the Global Peace Index, boasting low crime rates and high religious tolerance, and it’s tied with Denmark for first place on the list of least corrupt places worldwide. John Allen, CEO of WellingtonNZ, says, “Here, people are more relaxed in their work life. That’s not to say that we don’t do interesting work, and not to say that the work doesn’t from time to time become demanding of you—but to say that it doesn’t become all-consuming of you.”
Ireland
Ireland is going to be a favorable choice for business-minded people. It has low corporate tax rates and a positive business climate. There’s also a favorable tax regime in place for people and businesses who relocate. The cost of living tends to be higher than in many other European countries. Still, it’s much cheaper than the likes of New York or London.
Costa Rica
Costa Rican society values family and has traditional gender roles. Greetings involve a firm handshake, eye contact, and a smile. Punctuality is not emphasized, and tardiness is not considered rude. Face-to-face meetings and building relationships are important in business culture. It is one of the safest nations in Central America.
Malta
Malta is a predominantly Catholic country, and its society has traditionally been influenced by conservative values. However, in recent years, there have been significant changes in social attitudes and legislation, particularly in areas such as LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality.
Israel
Israel contains a collectivist society in which the group, especially the family, is valued more than its members. Israelis enjoy sharing life with their family and friends and are quick to offer help to those in need. Israelis are generally dedicated to their culture and state. Israel also boasts a dynamic economy and a fierce national defense policy.
South Korea
In domestic policy, South Korean conservatism promotes rapid modernization and social stability. Conservatives with right-wing populist tendencies have become more prominent in the public sphere. South Korea has a culture of deep spiritual beliefs. Of nearly fifty million people, twelve million are Christians, and an equal number are Buddhist. Behind this, most Koreans are influenced by Shamanism and Confucian philosophy.
Czech Republic
For the family-oriented, the Czech Republic may be the place for you. In this nation, family comes before work or anything else. Also, free enterprise is extremely important to the Czech people after years under communism. Strong cultural identity leads to more conservative social policies.
Estonia
The country’s emphasis on digital innovation and economic freedom has almost done away with bureaucracy. “All inquiries and issues can be sorted out pretty fast online. Interaction among government agencies and between the government and citizens has been completely transformed in e-Estonia, quickly making bureaucracy a thing of the past and making the running of all levels of government more efficient than ever before.”
Taiwan
“Taiwan is home to an ethnic Chinese society where Confucianism has had a profound influence. As a result, Taiwanese people place great emphasis on interpersonal relationships, ethics, education, and family. These values have laid the foundations that underlie the country’s stable society and economic development,” according to Singapore Management University.
Italy
Italy may be one of the most conservative nations in Western Europe. Italians have kept a relatively low profile when it comes to displaying their concealed but deeply conservative stance. There is still a strong influence from the Catholic Church, even among non-religious Italians. A focus on family bonds and a calmer lifestyle lend themselves to a conservative political outlook.
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