7. Fleeing to Mexico and Other Countries
During the Vietnam War, some Americans sought refuge in countries like Mexico to evade the draft. While Canada and Sweden were primary destinations, Mexico also attracted draft evaders. Estimates suggest that between 60,000 and 100,000 U.S. citizens emigrated, with Mexico being among the destinations. The Canadian government did not recognize draft evasion as a criminal act, facilitating this migration by advising border officials to avoid inquiries into individuals’ draft statuses. In Sweden, the government openly welcomed American Vietnam War refugees, reinforcing its stance on peace and opposition to the war. Other destinations included Britain and China, where some draft evaders found refuge.
