Five Nations Without Armies: Paths to Peace and Security

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Key Takeaways

Five countries worldwide operate without standing military forces.
These nations are Costa Rica, Haiti, Mauritius, Panama, and the Federated States of Micronesia.
Each uses distinct strategies—alliances, diplomacy, geography—to maintain security.

After witnessing the devastation of war firsthand, U.S. Civil War General William Tecumseh Sherman famously remarked that “war is hell.” Over the 20th century, war killed between 136.5 and 148.5 million people, according to arms‑control scholar Milton Leitenberg. In 2011, global military spending reached nearly $2.2 trillion (GlobalSecurity.org). Despite these costs, most governments deem defense essential, yet a handful have chosen to abolish their armed forces. This article explores why and how these nations defend themselves without a conventional army.

5: Haiti

Haiti, the poorest nation in the Western hemisphere, suffered a 7.0‑magnitude earthquake in 2010 (World Bank). Political instability has often involved the military. Following President Jean‑Bertrand Aristide’s 1990 election, a coup overthrew his government in 1991; the U.N. later restored Aristide and the military was disbanded to prevent future coups. Today, Haiti relies largely on U.N. peacekeepers, though President Michel Martelly announced plans to rebuild a national defense in 2011. BBC News

4: Costa Rica

Known for its slogan “pura vida,” Costa Rica abolished its armed forces in 1948 after a 44‑day civil war that claimed 2,000 lives (U.S. Department of State). The 1948 constitution, which guarantees free elections, also eliminated the military. Costa Rica now allocates about $300 million annually to a highly equipped police force and coast guard (GlobalSecurity.org). Its defense budget exceeds three times that of neighboring Nicaragua, reflecting concerns over border disputes.

3: Mauritius

The Indian‑Ocean island nation of Mauritius, home to over a million residents and a robust economy, has never maintained a standing army since gaining independence from Britain in 1968. Defense spending is only 0.3 % of GDP, covering a police force, Special Mobile Force, and National Coast Guard (U.S. Department of State). These agencies handle riot control and search‑and‑rescue, while counter‑terrorism training is provided by the U.S. and the coast guard collaborates with the Indian Navy. CIA Factbook

2: Panama

Panama’s military was dissolved in 1994 after a decade of turmoil, including the 1989 U.S. invasion that removed General Manuel Noriega. The country’s constitutional amendment abolished the armed forces, reflecting deep mistrust of military power. Panama remains committed to democratic governance and has declined U.S. military bases on its soil. The nation relies on diplomatic ties and regional security arrangements for defense. Reuters

1: Federated States of Micronesia

After WWII battles, Micronesia became part of the U.N. Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. In 1979 it achieved independence but chose not to allocate resources to a military. In 1986, a Compact of Free Association with the U.S. transferred defense responsibilities to the United States. Micronesian citizens may enlist in U.S. forces, and Micronesian participation in Iraq and Afghanistan has been high relative to population (Nobel). Citizens also benefit from visa‑free travel to the U.S. and vice versa. CIA Factbook