By: Enobong Ukpong
Some countries choose to forego traditional military forces, focusing on diplomacy and alliances to ensure national security. This approach allows them to redirect resources toward social development, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Below, we explore ten nations that maintain peace and security without standing militaries.
Costa Rica
After abolishing its military in 1948, Costa Rica shifted military funds to education and healthcare, relying on the United States and other allies for defense. Known for prioritizing social progress and environmental initiatives, Costa Rica is often celebrated as a peaceful and progressive nation.
Iceland
Iceland has no standing military, opting instead to depend on NATO for defense. Since gaining independence in 1944, Iceland has focused on cooperative defense and social welfare. The Icelandic Coast Guard oversees security, search and rescue, and maritime patrols. This commitment to social services over military might has helped Iceland become one of the world’s most peaceful nations.
Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein disbanded its army in 1868 due to financial challenges, instead relying on Switzerland for defense. The nation maintains a neutral stance and a small police force for internal security. By prioritizing neutrality and regional cooperation, Liechtenstein remains secure without a military presence.
Monaco
Under the 1918 Franco-Monégasque Treaty, Monaco relies on France for defense. Known for luxury tourism and finance, Monaco maintains a neutral position in global conflicts. A small police force ensures internal security and protects the royal family, allowing the principality to thrive as a peaceful nation.
Panama
Panama abolished its army in 1990, replacing it with the Panama Public Forces, which handle internal security and border protection. Through the Torrijos-Carter Treaties with the United States, Panama receives support if needed, enabling it to focus on development rather than military expenditures.
Vatican City
Vatican City’s security is safeguarded by Italy under the 1929 Lateran Treaty. The Swiss Guard, established in 1506, provides ceremonial protection for the Pope and maintains order within Vatican borders, supporting the world’s smallest sovereign state without a traditional military.
Kiribati
Kiribati, a small island nation in the Pacific, relies on defense pacts with Australia and New Zealand. This arrangement allows Kiribati to focus resources on domestic needs without maintaining a military. Recently, the nation voiced concerns over regional security, further highlighting its reliance on strategic diplomacy.
Samoa
Since signing a friendship treaty with New Zealand in 1962, Samoa has maintained sovereignty without a military. This treaty allows Samoa to allocate resources toward education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The nation recently celebrated success on the global stage with a historic win in women’s soccer, emphasizing its focus on domestic achievements.
Mauritius
Following independence from Britain in 1968, Mauritius abolished its standing army, relying on the Special Mobile Force (SMF) and National Police for security. As the nation prepares for its upcoming elections, a temporary social media ban reflects its commitment to stability and security through non-military means.
Palau
Independent since 1994, Palau depends on the United States for defense under a Compact of Free Association. With no standing military, Palau focuses on governance and social progress. Recently, the nation granted a second term to President Surangel Whipps Jr., continuing its path of peace and alliance-driven security.
These countries demonstrate that national security can be achieved through strategic alliances and social investments, offering valuable lessons in global peace and development.
Global Trust News
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