When we think of countries, we often imagine national flags, governments, and, almost inevitably, armies. But not every nation has a military. Some countries have chosen to do without one entirely—by choice, by history, or through unique arrangements with allies. It may seem risky in today’s world, but these countries show that peace, protection, and sovereignty can look very different from place to place. So who protects them? And why do they stay demilitarized?
Costa Rica is perhaps the most famous example of a country without a military. In 1948, after a civil war, Costa Rica abolished its army and redirected its military budget toward education, health care, and environmental protection. Since then, the country has remained peaceful and politically stable, with the help of international alliances and a strong police force. Costa Rica relies on diplomacy, regional support, and international law for its protection, and has become a symbol of peaceful governance.
Iceland, though a member of NATO, has no standing army. It does, however, have a small coast guard and civilian defense force. Iceland depends on defense agreements with the United States and NATO for military support in the case of conflict. Its geographic isolation and peaceful foreign policy make it less likely to be targeted, and the U.S. maintained a military presence there for decades during the Cold War.
Liechtenstein, a tiny European principality nestled between Switzerland and Austria, abolished its army in 1868 due to high costs and lack of need. It has remained neutral in global conflicts and depends on friendly relations with neighboring countries for its security. In case of emergencies, it coordinates with Switzerland, which does have a full military.
Vatican City also has no army of its own, although it is an independent sovereign state. Security within its borders is managed by the Swiss Guard, who are technically citizens of Switzerland serving under the Pope. For any external threats, Italy provides military protection under the Lateran Treaty, which established Vatican City as an independent state in 1929.
Andorra, located between France and Spain, does not maintain a full military. Instead, it has small ceremonial forces and relies on its neighbors for defense under informal agreements. If ever threatened, France and Spain are expected to come to its aid. This tiny nation has managed to maintain independence for centuries without needing an army.
Grenada has no regular military forces and relies on regional partnerships, particularly the Regional Security System (RSS) in the Caribbean. Local police and defense forces handle internal security, while allies provide support in times of disaster or unrest. Grenada’s commitment to non-aggression has helped it maintain good diplomatic ties in the region.
Palau, Micronesia, and the Marshall Islands, all located in the Pacific, have no standing military forces. Instead, they have defense compacts with the United States, which is responsible for their protection in exchange for strategic use of their territories. These agreements provide security while allowing the nations to focus on development and governance.
Samoa, a peaceful island nation in the South Pacific, has no standing army but does maintain a small police force and is protected under a Treaty of Friendship with New Zealand. New Zealand is responsible for military support when requested by the Samoan government.
These countries show that military power isn’t the only path to national security. Through diplomacy, treaties, and strategic partnerships, they maintain sovereignty while avoiding the costs and risks of maintaining an army. Their peaceful stances also reflect a broader philosophy: that investing in social progress and cooperation can sometimes offer more protection than any weapon.
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