What if it told you there are countries in this world that don’t have armies? Yes! You heard that right. Out of 195 countries in the whole world, there are countries that don’t totally have an army.
Today, I have compiled a list of 7 countries that don’t have an army and clearly highlighted why they are so.
1. Costa Rica
Costa Rica tops our list as one of the countries without an army. Costa Rica is actually a small, peaceful country that is located in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south, with a population of 5 million people.
It is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes. It is also a global leader in ecotourism and environmental conservation.
WHY THEY DON’T HAVE AN ARMY
They abolished ‘did away with’ their military back in the year 1948, choosing to instead focus and invest heavily in education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.
At the moment they only rely on local police officers for security and rely heavily on their allies if worse comes to worst!
2. Iceland
Iceland is a unique island nation located in the North Atlantic Ocean. Its capital city is Reykjavik. It is known for its dramatic landscapes of volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and hot springs. It is also a global leader in renewable energy.
WHY THEY DON’T HAVE AN ARMY
It has no army because of its geographic isolation and low threat level.
How they protect themselves as of now is by relying on the agreements they have with the United States of America and its allies at NATO, being a member itself; otherwise, when worse comes to worst, they have a small coast guard that they feel is enough for them.
3. Panama
A beautiful country located in Central America, connecting North and South America.
It's known for its modern skyline, rich history, and vibrant culture.
WHY THEY DON’T HAVE AN ARMY
Panama abolished its military back in the year 1990 after the U.S. invasion that had dictator Manuel Noriega removed from power. It looks like people had already had enough of the dictator and his regime and thought that they should do away with all those he was ruling with, including the armed forces. News Flash! Their constitution entirely forbids permanent military forces.
At the moment they're focusing on economic growth and stability, a decision they made back then and are still at it.
Today they rely on their local police force for internal security with defense support from regional allies if needed.
4. Liechtenstein
A landlocked country located in Central Europe between Switzerland and Austria, its capital city is Vaduz, known for its scenic landscapes, medieval castles, and vibrant financial sector.
An interesting fact is that the country is just 160 kilometers wide. The reason why it is one of the wealthiest countries in the world is because of its size, and it generates a lot of money because it is also not expensive to maintain it either.
WHY THEY DON’T HAVE AN ARMY
Liechtenstein abolished its army back in the year 1868. I think that very much explains why they are amongst the wealthiest countries. The very reason behind them abolishing their army is because they said it was too expensive to maintain.
At the moment they rely on Switzerland for defense if at all needed, and they’ve got themselves a small police force for law enforcement and civil defense, a common practice that seems to have been adopted by almost all countries without an army. There has to be a small local police force to maintain law and order because there are always some knuckleheads who don’t want to follow rules!
5. Vatican City
Another small country in the world, almost the same as Liechtenstein, Vatican City, just as the name says, is small in size and population as well, and it's within the city of Rome, Italy. It also serves as the spiritual and administrative center of the Roman Catholic Church. An official residence for the pope.
WHY THEY DON’T HAVE AN ARMY
Religious microstate means that it is ruled by a religious authority, and as we all know, religious people don’t need an army or guard with firearms. Its security is provided by the Swiss Guard, who are ceremonial but protect the pope. If worse comes to worst, they have special agreements with Italy, who will willingly give out their armies to help.
6. Grenada
Located in the Caribbean Sea, it is often called the “Spice Island” because of its large production of nutmeg and other spices. It's known for its beautiful, colorful buildings, scenic harbor, and rich culture.
WHY THEY DON’T HAVE AN ARMY
They abolished their army back in the year 1983 after the United States led an invasion that resulted in unresolved internal conflict, making them do away with their army.
At the moment they are focusing on tourism, agriculture, and culture; they, however, rely on a police force and a small paramilitary unit for security. If worse comes to worst, they have an agreement with the regional partners in the Eastern Caribbean who would show up to their rescue.
