For every country, there are two types of threats — internal and external. The internal threat is from within the geographical boundaries of a country while the external is from other neighbouring countries. So naturally, countries have two layers of security — Police and Army — to deal with two different threats.
Police is entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining law and order inside the country while Army is there to look after the borders and save a country from any external danger.
But you will be surprised to know that there are some countries in the world which don’t have any army of their own. Let’s discuss that.
Vatican City
It is smallest country in the world and is a neutral nation. It has no formal military agreement with Italy. Earlier there were Noble Guards, but in 1970 this institution was demolished. The Italian military is primarily responsible for the security of this country.
Monaco
Monaco is the second smallest sovereign state. It does not have any kind of army since the 17th century. However, there are two small troop units — one which protects the prince and another one protect the citizens. It is almost entirely dependent on France for their defence.
Mauritius
Mauritius is a multicultural country. This country doesn’t have army since 1968. However, there are 10,000 police personnel, who handle both internal and external securities.
Iceland
Iceland, the second largest island in Europe, also has no army since 1869. Iceland is however the only NATO member, which maintains no standing army and the responsibility of its security lies with the United States.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica, a country in the Caribbean region of Central America, has not had any troops since 1948. A fierce civil war broke out here 1948, after which this country ended its army. This country is one of the largest countries without military operations. However, there are police force to solve internal matters.
PNN/Agencies