Countries that have no army often surprise people.
For most of us, a military seems like a basic part of any country. Nations around the world spend billions of dollars each year on soldiers, weapons, aircraft, and defense systems.
That’s why it can be hard to imagine a country with no army at all.
Yet several countries have chosen exactly that path.
Some abolished their militaries decades ago. Others have never maintained a standing army in the first place. Despite having no military forces, these countries continue to function, grow, and remain among the safest places in the world.
So how do they do it?
The Short Answer
Countries that have no army rely on a combination of diplomacy, international agreements, police forces, and support from allied nations.
Many are small countries that face little military threat, making a traditional army unnecessary.
Why Would a Country Have No Army?
Maintaining a military is expensive.
Governments must pay for:
- Soldiers
- Training
- Equipment
- Bases
- Aircraft and vehicles
For smaller countries, these costs can consume a large portion of the national budget.
Instead of funding a military, some nations choose to invest in:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Infrastructure
- Economic development
Others believe diplomacy provides better security than military force.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is perhaps the most famous example.
In 1948, the country abolished its military after a civil war.
Instead of rebuilding an army, Costa Rica redirected resources toward education and healthcare.
Today, Costa Rica is considered one of the most stable countries in Latin America.
National security is handled through police and public security forces rather than a traditional military.
Iceland
Iceland is another country with no standing army.
Despite being a member of NATO, Iceland does not maintain a conventional military force.
Instead, the country relies on:
- Coast Guard operations
- Civil defense organizations
- International defense agreements
Its strategic location in the North Atlantic provides additional support through alliances with other nations.
Panama
Panama officially abolished its military in 1990.
Following years of political instability, the country replaced its armed forces with security services focused on law enforcement and border protection.
Today, Panama’s security responsibilities are handled by specialized police units rather than an army.
Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein has not maintained an army since 1868.
The country found military spending unnecessary and chose to eliminate its armed forces.
Today, internal security is managed by a small police force.
Liechtenstein is also surrounded by friendly neighboring countries, reducing the need for military protection.
Andorra
Located between France and Spain, Andorra does not have a standing army.
The tiny European nation relies largely on its relationships with neighboring countries for defense.
Like many small states, Andorra focuses on law enforcement rather than military operations.
Monaco
Monaco does not maintain a traditional army.
However, it does have small security units responsible for ceremonial duties and internal protection.
For broader defense matters, Monaco relies on agreements with France.
Vatican City
The Vatican is the smallest independent state in the world.
It does not have a conventional military force.
Instead, security is provided by:
- The Swiss Guard
- Vatican police forces
The Swiss Guard is famous for its colorful uniforms but also serves important protective functions.
How Do Countries With No Army Stay Safe?
This is the question most people ask.
Countries that have no army usually rely on several strategies:
International Alliances
Some countries receive protection through treaties and defense agreements.
Geography
Many are located in regions where the risk of invasion is extremely low.
Diplomacy
Maintaining strong international relationships can reduce potential threats.
Internal Security Forces
Police, coast guards, and border security agencies often handle responsibilities that might otherwise fall to the military.
Are Countries Without Armies Safe?
Surprisingly, many are.
Several countries that have no army consistently rank among the safest nations in the world.
Their security often depends more on political stability, economic strength, and international cooperation than military power.
While the approach may not work for every nation, it has proven successful for several small countries.
FAQs
Which countries have no army?
Some of the best-known examples include Costa Rica, Iceland, Panama, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, and Vatican City.
Why does Costa Rica have no army?
Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948 and redirected resources toward social programs such as education and healthcare.
Does Iceland have an army?
No. Iceland does not maintain a standing army but participates in international defense partnerships.
Are countries without armies protected?
Yes. Most rely on police forces, diplomacy, and defense agreements with other nations.
What is the largest country without an army?
Costa Rica is often considered the most prominent sovereign nation without a standing military.
The Bottom Line
Countries that have no army challenge the idea that military forces are essential for every nation.
While most countries rely on armed forces for defense, a small group has chosen a different path. Through diplomacy, alliances, and internal security services, these nations have managed to remain peaceful, stable, and secure.
Their success shows that national security can sometimes be achieved without maintaining a traditional military at all.
