Around the world, the idea of countries without armies may seem unusual. After all, in a world often marked by conflict and tension, the presence of military forces is generally seen as a necessity for national security. However, some nations have chosen a different path. They have no standing armies and instead focus on other means to ensure their safety and maintain peace. These countries challenge the common belief that a military presence is essential for maintaining national security, relying on diplomacy, international agreements, and other strategies to secure their borders.
The concept of a country without a military force might raise questions for many: How do they stay safe without an army? Are they vulnerable to external threats? Surprisingly, these countries manage to remain peaceful and secure, and their approach to maintaining peace is often seen as a model for others. In this article, we will explore five such countries that have opted to do away with a military and examine how they ensure their safety and preserve peace in a sometimes chaotic world.
1. Costa Rica: A Pioneer of Peace
Costa Rica is perhaps the most famous example of a country without an army. In 1949, Costa Rica made the bold decision to abolish its military entirely. The country redirected its resources, which would have been spent on defense, toward education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. Costa Rica is a thriving democracy with a high standard of living, and its decision to maintain a military-free status has been hailed as an example of peace and diplomacy.
Instead of a traditional army, Costa Rica relies on a well-trained police force and collaborates with international organizations like the United Nations to ensure its security. The country is also protected by international treaties, including agreements with the United States and neighboring countries, to prevent conflicts. Costa Rica’s commitment to peace is evident in its foreign policy, which emphasizes diplomacy and non-aggression. While it may seem risky to some, Costa Rica has been remarkably successful in maintaining stability, and its model has inspired other countries to consider similar approaches.
2. Switzerland: A Neutral Nation Without a Standing Army
Switzerland, known for its neutrality and political stability, does not have a standing army in the traditional sense. However, Switzerland maintains a unique defense strategy based on a system of universal conscription. All Swiss men are required to serve in the military for a short period, but they are not part of a permanent standing army. This reserve-based system allows the country to maintain a credible defense force without the need for a full-time military.
Switzerland’s neutrality has been recognized internationally for centuries, and the country has successfully avoided involvement in global conflicts, including both World Wars. Its location in the heart of Europe, surrounded by powerful neighbors, has not resulted in direct threats, partly due to the country’s reputation for neutrality and diplomatic efforts. Switzerland also plays a key role in international diplomacy, hosting numerous peace talks and serving as a mediator in global disputes. Its unique approach to security—balancing reserve forces with a commitment to neutrality—has allowed Switzerland to remain one of the most peaceful countries in the world.
3. Iceland: The Land of Peaceful Security
Iceland, another country that does not maintain a standing army, is known for its strong commitment to peace. Since gaining independence from Denmark in 1944, Iceland has chosen to forgo military forces and instead rely on its membership in international organizations, including NATO. While Iceland does not have a military, it has a small peacekeeping force that contributes to international missions under the United Nations and NATO’s framework.
Iceland’s geographical location in the North Atlantic makes it strategically important, but its decision to remain without a standing army reflects its emphasis on peace and diplomacy. The country’s security is guaranteed by its alliances with NATO and other countries, ensuring its protection if necessary. Iceland’s focus on non-violence and conflict resolution has made it one of the safest countries in the world, with low crime rates and high levels of social trust. Its reliance on international cooperation for security, rather than military might, demonstrates that peace can coexist with safety in the modern world.
4. Panama: A Focus on Diplomacy and Regional Cooperation
Panama, located in the heart of Central America, made the decision to abolish its military in 1990 following the end of a turbulent period marked by military dictatorships. Instead of maintaining an army, Panama invests in a civilian security force that is responsible for national defense. The country also prioritizes diplomacy and regional cooperation as the main strategies for ensuring its safety.
Panama’s position as the host of the Panama Canal, a critical international waterway, has led the country to form strong ties with both the United States and other regional powers. These partnerships provide a sense of security without the need for a large military force. Panama’s peaceful approach to governance has contributed to its stable and thriving economy, and its commitment to peace and neutrality has made it an influential player in Central American diplomacy.
5. Liechtenstein: A Small Country with Big Security Partnerships
Liechtenstein, a tiny principality nestled between Switzerland and Austria, has no military of its own. Instead, it relies on its neighboring countries for protection. Liechtenstein’s security is guaranteed by its agreements with Switzerland, which is responsible for the defense of the country in the event of an emergency. The decision to eliminate the army was made in 1868, and since then, Liechtenstein has maintained a neutral stance in international conflicts.
Despite its lack of military forces, Liechtenstein has managed to remain secure due to its strong diplomatic relations and its position in a region known for stability. The country has a robust economy and enjoys high living standards, benefiting from the peace and security provided by its strategic alliances. Liechtenstein’s unique approach demonstrates that even the smallest nations can thrive without maintaining a traditional military force, relying instead on diplomatic ties and international cooperation for security.
These five countries—Costa Rica, Switzerland, Iceland, Panama, and Liechtenstein—have all shown that it is possible to maintain peace and security without a traditional standing army. While each country’s approach is unique, they share a commitment to diplomacy, international cooperation, and regional partnerships. These nations have demonstrated that peace and security do not necessarily require military power, and their success suggests that other countries might benefit from exploring alternative strategies for ensuring national defense.
In a world that often equates security with military might, these countries provide a refreshing perspective on how peace, diplomacy, and international cooperation can offer a stable and safe environment. While the absence of an army may seem risky to some, these nations have proven that peace can coexist with safety, showing the world that there are other ways to protect a nation beyond the traditional military model.