In this article, we look at the 5 countries that have no army, navy, or air force. You can read about reasons why some nations have decided not to have a regular military by heading over to our article, 15 Countries that have no Army, Navy or Air Force, where we have also talked about international treaties that ensure the defense and sovereignty of these countries.
5. Iceland
Population: 372,500
Iceland has no regular military. The primary law enforcement organizations in the country include the Icelandic National Police, the Icelandic Coast Guard, and the nine regional police forces. The country is a member of NATO which ensures its security. Iceland’s airspace is also guarded by NATO members on a rotational basis under the Icelandic Air Policing.
4. Solomon Islands
Population: 708,000
Solomon Islands is among the larger countries in terms of population that do not have an army, navy, or air force. The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force ensures both internal and external security in the country. It receives regular training from both Australia and New Zealand. China and Australia have over the last few years provided patrol boats to the country to aid in maritime patrol operations.
3. Mauritius
Population: 1.26 million
With a strength of an estimated 12,500 security personnel, the Mauritius Police Force (MPF) is the national law enforcement force of Mauritius, which looks after policing and other security operations in the country. The MPF includes a paramilitary unit, special support unit, and the national coast guard. India is the primary military supplier of the MPF, while second-hand western equipment is also used by the law enforcement agency.
2. Panama
Population: 4.25 million
Panama is the second most populous country that has no military. There are about 27,000 security personnel belonging to the Panamanian Public Forces that ensures law and order in the country. The Panama National Police is equipped with counterterrorism and anti narcotics units, as well as special forces for rapid response and maritime operations.
1. Costa Rica
Population: 5.2 million
Despite having a population in excess of five million, Costa Rica has no army, navy or air force. The National Police serves as the main law enforcement agency in the country. Costa Rica also has a police for monitoring roads, as well as a force dedicated to protecting tourists visiting the country.
Costa Rica has close relations with the United States that regularly provides donations to help the country fight narcotrafficking and organized crime. It is a member of the Inter-American Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance, which is responsible for its defense if it were to face external aggression.
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