In the sixth season of The Handmaid's Tale, New Bethlehem emerged as a significant entity after its introduction in the previous season. Overseen by Commander Lawrence, played by Bradley Whitford, this area was intended to present a more benevolent face of the oppressive Gilead regime, reports the Mirror US.

It was touted as a sanctuary where Gilead refugees could return, promising a kinder, gentler version of the government, with Serena Joy, played by Yvonne Strahovski, collaborating with Commander Lawrence to promote this image to the world.

New Bethlehem's exact location within Gilead is not explicitly stated but can be inferred from various clues throughout the series. Commander Lawrence described it as a "modernised, strategically liberalised island" within Gilead's territory, where women would enjoy freedoms such as reading, writing, working, and wearing trousers, and there would be no handmaids or hangings.

The size of New Bethlehem was likened to that of Hong Kong, indicating it is a substantial area.

Although the precise location is not specified, it is believed to be situated near Boston, where Commander Lawrence is based. The proximity to Boston is also suggested by the presence of other characters in the area, including Aunt Lydia, played by Ann Dowd, and Commander Wharton, played by Josh Charles, who frequently visits Serena.