Which Country Is the Most Conservative in the Western World? Find Out Here

Conservatism shows up in different ways around the world, but in the West, it often means valuing tradition, national identity, and limited government. This article focuses on what the West considers conservative. Because, strictly speaking, some of the most conservative countries in the world, such as Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan, follow strict religious and traditional laws that govern—or stifle—many aspects of life, and, as such, are consequently conservative. But these nations practice a different approach to conservatism, often rooted in religious doctrine rather than nationalism or economic policy. 

Below, we’ll take a look at the most conservative countries in the Western world. From Eastern Europe to North and South America, these nations prioritize nationalism, stricter immigration rules, and traditional family values.

What is the most conservative country?

Poland is the most conservative country in the Western world. It has long-standing Catholic roots, strict laws on social issues like abortion and LGBTQ+ rights, and a strong sense of national identity. The Law and Justice Party (PiS), although not currently in power, remains highly influential and popular. The party stands for family values, economic nationalism, and skepticism toward the European Union, all while not sliding into the influence sphere of Russia.

The Polish long-standing commitment to Catholicism and tradition is in the books and walls of Rome. One of the masterpieces in the Vatican depicts the Battle of Vienna in 1683, in which the Polish took arms and marched south to defend the Christian city. When, in 2010, the Polish president died in a plane crash, many Catholics denounced a plot to take down the leader of one of the last truly Catholic and conservative nations in the world. One case or the other, Poland is still the most conservative country in the West.

List of the most conservative countries in the world

Conservatism can mean different things, from strong nationalism to strict social values. Below is a list of ten of the most conservative countries in the Western world. They are not ranked in a strict order, as conservatism varies based on different factors.

Poland

Poland is one of Europe’s most conservative countries, where the Catholic Church plays a key role in shaping policies. The government has strict abortion laws and enforces tough immigration policies. The Law and Justice Party (PiS) remains highly popular, has significantly influenced Poland’s policies, and often clashes with the European Union over judicial and media reforms. Poland, as a conservative nation, has a history of spawning forward-thinking researchers. Nicolaus Copernicus, one of the West’s most disruptive scientists, was Polish. So was Marie Curie—also known as Maria Skłodowska.

Hungary

Under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Hungary has taken a strong stance against globalist influences. Orbán’s government is highly skeptical of multinational institutions, foreign-funded nonprofits, and EU overreach. Hungary preserves strict border controls and pushes for national sovereignty over global governance. The government has instituted laws that limit foreign influence in politics and education to affirm its commitment to self-determination and national identity.

El Salvador

El Salvador has emerged as one of the most conservative countries in Latin America, particularly under President Nayib Bukele. His government has taken a hardline stance on crime and implemented strict security measures that have dramatically reduced gang violence. Bukele’s administration also promotes nationalism, economic independence, and skepticism toward international institutions like the United Nations and global human rights organizations. And, yes, El Salvador is part of the West, even though some shabby authors, probably bitter about their President, want to discredit it as something else.

Italy

Italy has one of the strongest conservative movements in Europe. Giorgia Meloni and her Brothers of Italy party have struck a chord with many Italians who feel that national identity and economic self-reliance have been eroded by globalization. Her rise to power reflects a pushback against EU interference and a call for stronger borders, traditional family values, and a renewed focus on national sovereignty. This shift has influenced conservative movements across Europe and beyond, and shows that many people want a government that prioritizes its own citizens over international agendas. If, from personal experience, you don’t think Italy is that conservative, always observe that there are “many Italies.” Tuscany, Sicily and South Tyrol were not always part of the same state, and some regions might be historically more traditional than others.

Austria

Austria’s Freedom Party (FPÖ) has pushed for stricter immigration policies and the preservation of Austrian identity. Nationalism has been on the rise, and the government favors economic policies that reduce reliance on the European Union while promoting self-sufficiency.

Romania

Romania has become a rising force in Europe’s conservative movement. The country has a growing nationalist sentiment, marked by an increasing skepticism toward the European Union and globalist policies. Romanian conservatives emphasize traditional family values and economic independence, and they reject progressive ideologies pushed by wealthier European nations.

Serbia

Serbia is a deeply conservative country, especially in gender roles and national pride. Compared to the US, men and women in Serbia interact in some quirky, traditional ways as a result of long-standing cultural norms. A blogger said in 2016 that “in Serbia, it seems traditional dating customs are still strong, manners are not forgotten, and chivalry isn't dead.” He goes on to say that “I am always surprised and impressed when here there is no discussion on splitting the bill and your date always makes sure you get home safe.” Serbia also maintains strong ties with Russia and resists progressive social policies from the West.

Slovakia

Slovakia is one of the most socially conservative countries in Europe, with a strong emphasis on traditional family values and religious influence in politics. The country has resisted progressive social policies and still follows strict laws on issues like abortion (which brought them some backlash) and same-sex marriage. Public sentiment remains largely opposed to liberal reforms, and Slovakia’s leadership prioritizes national identity and sovereignty over European Union mandates.

Paraguay

Paraguay is one of the most conservative countries in South America. It maintains strong Catholic traditions that influence its laws and culture. The country has strict stances on abortion and same-sex marriage and prefers traditional social values. Politically, the long-dominant Colorado Party upholds nationalist policies and focuses on law and order, economic protectionism, and resistance to foreign influence, including by defending their language.

United States

The US has strong conservative regions, particularly in the South and Midwest. The Republican Party represents a large group of Americans who support traditional family values, religious freedom, and economic nationalism. States like Texas, Florida, and Tennessee have led the way in pushing conservative policies. While the coasts are very polarized—they often lean extremely liberal, left, or even radical—there are still deeply conservative regions where traditional values and nationalism remain strong.