List of sovereign states without armed forces

This is a list of sovereign states without armed forces. Dependent territories (such as Bermuda, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands) whose defence is the responsibility of another country or an army alternative are excluded. The term armed forces refers to any government-sponsored defense used to further the domestic and foreign policies of their respective government. Some of the countries listed, such as Iceland and Monaco, have no standing armies but still have a non-police military force.{{cite web|url=https://www.government.is/topics/foreign-affairs/national-security/ |title=National Security |work=Icelandic Ministry for Foreign Affairs |publisher=Mfa.is |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web|url=http://www.gouv.mc/Gouvernement-et-Institutions/Le-Gouvernement/Departement-de-l-Interieur/Direction-de-la-Surete-Publique |title=Direction de la Sûreté Publique / Département de l'Intérieur / Le Gouvernement / Gouvernement et Institutions / Portail du Gouvernement - Monaco |language=fr |publisher=Gouv.mc |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web |url=http://www-rohan.sdsu.edu/faculty/rwinslow/europe/monaco.html |title=Comparative Criminology | Europe - Monaco |publisher=Rohan.sdsu.edu |date=2002-01-01 |access-date=2012-06-17 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120430001200/http://www-rohan.sdsu.edu/faculty/rwinslow/europe/monaco.html |archive-date=2012-04-30 }}

Many of the 21 countries listed here typically have had a long-standing agreement with a former colonial or protecting power; one example of the latter is the agreement between Monaco and France, which has existed for at least 300 years.{{cite web|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/monaco/ |title=CIA - The World Factbook |publisher=Cia.gov |access-date=2012-06-17}}

Similarly, the Compact of Free Association countries of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), the Marshall Islands, and Palau rely on the United States for their defence. They ensure their national security concerns are addressed through annual Joint Committee Meetings to discuss defence matters with the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. Andorra has a small army, and can request defensive aid if necessary,{{cite web|url=http://www.boe.es/buscar/doc.php?coleccion=iberlex&id=1993/16868 |title=Documento BOE-A-1993-16868 |publisher=BOE.es |date=1993-06-30 |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web|url=http://www.theodora.com/wfb1990/andorra/andorra_military.html|title=Andorra Defense Forces - 1990|access-date=2008-02-27|year=1990|publisher=CIA World Factbook}} while Iceland has a unique agreement since 1951 with the United States which requires them to provide defence to Iceland when needed, although permanent armed forces have not been stationed there since 2006.{{cite web |url=http://usmilitary.about.com/od/assignments/a/iceland.htm |title=U.S. Military Forces Leaving Iceland |publisher=Usmilitary.about.com |access-date=2012-06-17 |archive-date=13 February 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090213151508/http://usmilitary.about.com/od/assignments/a/iceland.htm |url-status=dead }}

The remaining countries are responsible for their own defence, and operate either without any armed forces, or with limited armed forces. Some of the countries, such as Costa Rica and Grenada, underwent a process of demilitarization.{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/p/wha/rls/70686.htm|title=Treaty Establishing the Regional Security System (1996) |publisher=United States Department of State }}{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1990-03-17-mn-183-story.html |title=Breakup of Palace Guard Helps to Demilitarise Haiti - Los Angeles Times |publisher=Articles.latimes.com |date=1990-03-17 |access-date=2012-06-17 |first=Don A. |last=Schanche}} Other countries were formed without armed forces, such as history of Samoa;{{cite web|url=http://www.toptenz.net/top-10-countries-without-military-forces.php |title=Top 10 Countries Without Military Forces | Top 10 Lists |date=20 May 2010 |publisher=TopTenz.net |access-date=2012-06-17}} the primary reason being that they were, or still are, under protection from another nation at their point of independence.

Sovereign states without armed forces

class="wikitable plainrowheaders" \|+Sovereign states with no official military forces !Country !Details !{{Reference heading}}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Andorra}} Andorra \|Andorra has no standing army but has signed treaties by which Spain and France provide defence assistance and protection. It has a small volunteer army which is purely ceremonial in function. The paramilitary GIPA special forces unit of the national police is trained in counter-terrorism and hostage rescue. \| align=center\|{{cite web\|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/andorra/ \|title=Andorra \|website=The World Factbook \|publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency \|access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web\|url=http://turisme.andorralavella.ad/?q=en/node/281 \|title=El Sometent \| Tourism \|publisher=Turisme.andorralavella.ad \|date=2011-05-17 \|access-date=2012-06-17}}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Dominica}} Dominica \|Dominica has not had a standing army since 1981. The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force has a special forces unit and coast guard. In the event of war or other emergencies, the police force can act as a military force if so directed by the authorities. Defence is the responsibility of the Regional Security System. \| align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2015-07-07\|url=http://www.demilitarisation.org/spip.php?article51&lang=en\|title=Overview. 26 countries without armies\|publisher=APRED}}[http://www.resdal.org/atlas/atlas10-ing-09-the-caribbean.pdf The Caribbean: Defence and Security in the Anglophone Caribbean — The Roads to Cooperation], p. 113{{Cite web \|url=http://cdpf.gov.dm/special-service-unit \|title=Special Service Unit \|access-date=18 May 2022 \|archive-date=21 June 2021 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210621124100/http://cdpf.gov.dm/special-service-unit \|url-status=dead }}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Grenada}} Grenada \| Grenada has not had a standing army since the 1983 disbandment of the People's Revolutionary Army, after the US-led invasion. The Royal Grenada Police Force maintains a paramilitary Special Services Unit for internal security purposes. Maritime protection is handled by the Royal Grenada Coast Guard. Defence is the responsibility of the Regional Security System. \|align=center\|
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Kiribati}} Kiribati \| Under Article 126 of the Constitution, the only forces permitted are the police, which includes a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains one Pacific-class patrol boat, the Teanoai. Defence assistance is provided by Australia and New Zealand under an informal agreement between the three countries. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27\|url=http://www.theodora.com/wfb1991/kiribati/kiribati_military.html\|title=Kiribati Defense Forces – 1991 \|work=The World Factbook \|publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency }}{{cite web \|url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/kiribati \|title=Kiribati \|publisher=Freedom House \|access-date=2012-06-17 \|archive-date=2013-03-07 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307053103/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/kiribati \|url-status=dead }}{{cite web \|author=Australian Government, Department of Defence \|url=http://www.defence.gov.au/opEx/global/opkiribatiassist/index.htm \|title=Operation KIRIBATI ASSIST - Department of Defence \|publisher=Defence.gov.au \|date=1943-11-20 \|access-date=2012-06-17 \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120502084810/http://www.defence.gov.au/opEx/global/opkiribatiassist/index.htm \|archive-date=2012-05-02 }}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Liechtenstein}} Liechtenstein \| Abolished its standing army in 1868 because it was deemed too costly. An army is only permitted in times of war, but that situation has not occurred since 1866. Liechtenstein maintains a police force with a police tactical unit, equipped with small arms to carry out internal security duties. Defense assistance is provided by Austria and Switzerland under an informal agreement among the three countries. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27\|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/9403.htm\|title=Background Note: Liechtenstein \|publisher=United States Department of State }}{{cite web \|url=http://www.landespolizei.li/Portals/0/docs/pdf-Files/Imagebroschuere_LP_e_end.pdf \|title=Imagebroschuere_LP_e.indd \|access-date=2012-10-19 \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130516220753/http://www.landespolizei.li/Portals/0/docs/pdf-Files/Imagebroschuere_LP_e_end.pdf \|archive-date=2013-05-16 }}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Marshall Islands}} Marshall Islands \| Since the country's foundation, no military has been formed. The police includes a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains one Pacific-class patrol boat, the Lomor. Under the Compact of Free Association, defense is the responsibility of the United States. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27\|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/26551.htm\|title=Background Note: Marshall Islands \|publisher=United States Department of State }}{{cite web\|url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2010/marshall-islands\|title=Marshall Islands\|website=www.freedomhouse.org\|access-date=2012-06-20\|archive-date=2012-03-27\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120327015640/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2010/marshall-islands\|url-status=dead}}{{cite web\|url=http://www.toptenz.net/top-10-countries-without-military-forces.php \|title=Top 10 Countries Without Military Forces \| Top 10 Lists \|date=20 May 2010 \|publisher=TopTenz.net \|access-date=2013-03-30}}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Micronesia}} Federated States of Micronesia \| Since the country's foundation, no military has been formed. The police maintain a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains three Pacific-class patrol boats, FSS Palikir, FSS Micronesia, and FSS Independence. Defense is the responsibility of the United States under the Compact of Free Association. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27\|url=http://oig.state.gov/oig/lbry/isprpts/eap/11982.htm\|title=Inspection of Embassy Kolonia, Federated States of Micronesia (ISP-I-02-09)\|publisher=United States Department of State\|url-status=dead\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070829054355/http://oig.state.gov/oig/lbry/isprpts/eap/11982.htm\|archive-date=2007-08-29}}{{cite web\|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/micronesia-federated-states-of/ \|title=Micronesia, Federated States of \|work=The World Factbook \|publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency \|access-date=2013-03-30}}{{cite web\|url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/micronesia\|title=Micronesia\|website=www.freedomhouse.org\|access-date=2012-06-19\|archive-date=2013-03-07\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307043709/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/micronesia\|url-status=dead}}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Nauru}} Nauru \| Since the country's foundation, no military has been formed. There is a relatively large armed police force, and an auxiliary police force for internal security. Australia is responsible for Nauru's defence under an informal agreement between the two countries. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-09-21 \|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/nauru/ \|title=Nauru \|work=The World Factbook \|publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency}}{{cite web \|url=http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/nauru \|title=Guns in Nauru: Facts, Figures and Firearm Law \|website=Gunpolicy.org \|access-date=2012-06-17 \|archive-date=18 July 2010 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100718201339/http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/nauru \|url-status=dead }}{{cite web\|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/nauru/ \|title=Nauru \|work=The World Factbook \|publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency \|access-date=2012-06-17 }}{{cite web \|url=http://www-rohan.sdsu.edu/faculty/rwinslow/asia_pacific/nauru.html \|title=Comparative Criminology \| Asia - Nauru \|publisher=Rohan.sdsu.edu \|access-date=2012-06-17 \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151121035025/http://www-rohan.sdsu.edu/faculty/rwinslow/asia_pacific/nauru.html \|archive-date=2015-11-21 }}{{cite web \|url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/nauru \|title=Nauru \|publisher=Freedom House \|access-date=2012-06-17 \|archive-date=2012-09-17 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120917183011/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/nauru \|url-status=dead }}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Palau}} Palau \| Since the country's foundation, no military has been formed. The police includes a 30-person Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains one Pacific-class patrol boat, Remeliik, and one Japanese-donated patrol boat, Kedam. Defense assistance is provided by the United States under the Compact of Free Association. \|align=center\|{{cite encyclopedia\|access-date=2008-02-27\|url=http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Asia-and-Oceania/Palau.html\|title=Palau \|encyclopedia=Encyclopedia of the Nations }}{{cite web \|url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/palau \|title=Palau \|publisher=Freedom House \|access-date=2012-06-17 \|archive-date=2013-03-07 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307053623/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/palau \|url-status=dead }}{{cite web\|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/1840.htm \|title=U.S. Relations With Palau \|website=United States Department of State \|date=2012-02-07 \|access-date=2012-06-17}}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Saint Lucia}} Saint Lucia \| The Royal Saint Lucia Police maintain two small paramilitary forces consisting of 116 people, the Special Service Unit, and the Coast Guard, both units are responsible for internal security. Defence is the responsibility of the Regional Security System. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|url=http://www.rslpf.com/hist.htm \|title=Royal Saint Lucia Police Force \|publisher=Rslpf.com \|date=1961-11-04 \|access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web\|url=http://www.nationmaster.com/country/st-saint-lucia/mil-military \|title=Saint Lucian Military statistics, definitions and sources \|website=Nationmaster.com \|access-date=2012-06-17}}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Saint Vincent and the Grenadines}} Saint Vincent and the Grenadines \| The Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force maintain two paramilitary forces with a combined strength of 94 people (as of 2012); the Special Service Unit, and the Coast Guard, which are responsible for internal security and patrolling coastal waters respectively. Virtually all Coast Guard Commanders have been officers from the Royal Navy. Defence is the responsibility of the Regional Security System. \|align=center\|{{cite web \|url=http://www-rohan.sdsu.edu/faculty/rwinslow/namerica/stvincentgrenadines.html \|title=Comparative Criminology \| North America - Saint Vincent and the Grenadines \|website=Rohan.sdsu.edu \|date=1979-10-27 \|access-date=2012-06-17 \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150622061703/http://www-rohan.sdsu.edu/faculty/rwinslow/namerica/stvincentgrenadines.html \|archive-date=2015-06-22 }}{{cite web \|url=http://www.security.gov.vc/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=42&Itemid=51 \|title=History \|website=Ministry of National Security, Air and See Port Development, Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines \|access-date=2012-06-17 \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130325223917/http://www.security.gov.vc/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=42&Itemid=51 \|archive-date=2013-03-25 }}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Samoa}} Samoa \| Since the country's foundation, no military has been formed. There is a small police force, and a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains a Pacific-class patrol boat. There are defence ties with New Zealand, which is required to consider any request for assistance under the Treaty of Friendship of 1962. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27\|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/samoa/\|title=Samoa \|website=The World Factbook \|publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency}}{{cite web\|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/1842.htm \|title=Samoa \|publisher=State.gov \|date=2012-02-01 \|access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web \|url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/samoa \|title=Samoa \|publisher=Freedom House \|access-date=2012-06-17 \|archive-date=2013-03-07 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307043248/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/samoa \|url-status=dead }}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Solomon Islands}} Solomon Islands \| The Solomons have not had a military force since 1946. There is a relatively large police force, and a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains two Pacific-class patrol boats, the Auki and the Lata. Following heavy ethnic conflict, neighbouring countries intervened to restore law and order in 2003. The Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) was responsible for defence and policing assistance until 30 June 2017. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27 \|url=http://www.defence.gov.au/minister/NelsonMintpl.cfm?CurrentId=5664 \|title=Australian defence presence in solomon islands \|publisher=Australian Government Department of Defense \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080817231336/http://defence.gov.au/minister/NelsonMintpl.cfm?CurrentId=5664 \|archive-date=August 17, 2008 }}[http://britains-smallwars.com/RRGP/Solomons.html The Solomons Islands 1998-2003] {{webarchive\|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120509185544/http://britains-smallwars.com/RRGP/Solomons.html \|date=2012-05-09 }}, [http://britains-smallwars.com/ britains-smallwars.com/].{{cite web \|url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/solomon-islands \|title=Solomon Islands \|publisher=Freedom House \|access-date=2012-06-17 \|archive-date=2013-03-07 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307034657/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/solomon-islands \|url-status=dead }}{{cite web\|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/solomon-islands/ \|title=Solomon Islands \|work=The World Factbook \|publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency \|access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web\|url=http://www.ramsi.org/ \|title=Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands - Home \|publisher=RAMSI \|date=2012-04-26 \|access-date=2012-06-17}}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Tuvalu}} Tuvalu \| Since the country's foundation, no military has been formed. There is a small police force, which includes a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Maritime Surveillance Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains a Pacific-class patrol boat, the Te Mataili II. Australia assumed responsibility for Tuvalu's national security in 2023 in accordance with the Australia–Tuvalu Falepili Union. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27\|url=http://www.wpro.who.int/countries/tuv/\|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050426022545/http://www.wpro.who.int/countries/tuv/\|url-status=dead\|archive-date=April 26, 2005\|title=Country Context \|publisher=World Health Organization }}{{Cite web \|url=http://www.vanuatu.usp.ac.fj/library/Paclaw/Tuvalu/Police%20Act.pdf \|title=Laws of Tuvalu, Revised Edition 1978: Chapter 70: Police \|access-date=2012-05-08 \|archive-date=2018-10-03 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181003103945/http://www.vanuatu.usp.ac.fj/library/Paclaw/Tuvalu/Police%20Act.pdf \|url-status=dead }}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Vatican City}} Vatican City \| The Pontifical Swiss Guard, an armed unit charged with protecting the pope, is officially under the authority of the Holy See rather than the Vatican City State. Vatican City has no defense treaty with Italy, as it would violate the Vatican City's neutrality, but informally the Italian Armed Forces protect Vatican City. The Palatine Guard and Noble Guard were abolished in 1970. Internal policing is the responsibility of the Gendarmerie Corps. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27 \|url=http://dev.prenhall.com/divisions/hss/worldreference/VA/defense.html \|title=Vatican City \|publisher=World Desk Reference \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061122145658/http://dev.prenhall.com/divisions/hss/worldreference/VA/defense.html \|archive-date=November 22, 2006 }}Charlies Witke, [http://www.miwsr.com/2012/downloads/2012-008.pdf Review of David Alvarez, The Pope's Soldiers: A Military History of the Modern Vatican], Michigan War Studies Review (January 20, 2012).{{cite web\|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/holy-see-vatican-city/ \|title=Holy See (Vatican City) \|work=The World Factbook \|publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency \|access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite book\|title=The Pope's Soldiers: A Military History of the Modern Vatican Modern War Studies\|first=David\|last=Alvarez\|publisher=University Press of Kansas\|date=2001\|id={{ASIN\|0700617701\|country=uk}} }}

class="wikitable plainrowheaders"

|+Sovereign states with no official military forces

!Country

!Details

!{{Reference heading}}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Andorra}} Andorra

|Andorra has no standing army but has signed treaties by which Spain and France provide defence assistance and protection. It has a small volunteer army which is purely ceremonial in function. The paramilitary GIPA special forces unit of the national police is trained in counter-terrorism and hostage rescue.

| align=center|{{cite web|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/andorra/ |title=Andorra |website=The World Factbook |publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web|url=http://turisme.andorralavella.ad/?q=en/node/281 |title=El Sometent | Tourism |publisher=Turisme.andorralavella.ad |date=2011-05-17 |access-date=2012-06-17}}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Dominica}} Dominica

|Dominica has not had a standing army since 1981. The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force has a special forces unit and coast guard. In the event of war or other emergencies, the police force can act as a military force if so directed by the authorities. Defence is the responsibility of the Regional Security System.

| align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2015-07-07|url=http://www.demilitarisation.org/spip.php?article51&lang=en|title=Overview. 26 countries without armies|publisher=APRED}}[http://www.resdal.org/atlas/atlas10-ing-09-the-caribbean.pdf The Caribbean: Defence and Security in the Anglophone Caribbean — The Roads to Cooperation], p. 113{{Cite web |url=http://cdpf.gov.dm/special-service-unit |title=Special Service Unit |access-date=18 May 2022 |archive-date=21 June 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210621124100/http://cdpf.gov.dm/special-service-unit |url-status=dead }}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Grenada}} Grenada

| Grenada has not had a standing army since the 1983 disbandment of the People's Revolutionary Army, after the US-led invasion. The Royal Grenada Police Force maintains a paramilitary Special Services Unit for internal security purposes. Maritime protection is handled by the Royal Grenada Coast Guard. Defence is the responsibility of the Regional Security System.

|align=center|

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Kiribati}} Kiribati

| Under Article 126 of the Constitution, the only forces permitted are the police, which includes a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains one Pacific-class patrol boat, the Teanoai. Defence assistance is provided by Australia and New Zealand under an informal agreement between the three countries.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27|url=http://www.theodora.com/wfb1991/kiribati/kiribati_military.html|title=Kiribati Defense Forces – 1991 |work=The World Factbook |publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency }}{{cite web |url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/kiribati |title=Kiribati |publisher=Freedom House |access-date=2012-06-17 |archive-date=2013-03-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307053103/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/kiribati |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |author=Australian Government, Department of Defence |url=http://www.defence.gov.au/opEx/global/opkiribatiassist/index.htm |title=Operation KIRIBATI ASSIST - Department of Defence |publisher=Defence.gov.au |date=1943-11-20 |access-date=2012-06-17 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120502084810/http://www.defence.gov.au/opEx/global/opkiribatiassist/index.htm |archive-date=2012-05-02 }}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Liechtenstein}} Liechtenstein

| Abolished its standing army in 1868 because it was deemed too costly. An army is only permitted in times of war, but that situation has not occurred since 1866. Liechtenstein maintains a police force with a police tactical unit, equipped with small arms to carry out internal security duties. Defense assistance is provided by Austria and Switzerland under an informal agreement among the three countries.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/9403.htm|title=Background Note: Liechtenstein |publisher=United States Department of State }}{{cite web |url=http://www.landespolizei.li/Portals/0/docs/pdf-Files/Imagebroschuere_LP_e_end.pdf |title=Imagebroschuere_LP_e.indd |access-date=2012-10-19 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130516220753/http://www.landespolizei.li/Portals/0/docs/pdf-Files/Imagebroschuere_LP_e_end.pdf |archive-date=2013-05-16 }}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Marshall Islands}} Marshall Islands

| Since the country's foundation, no military has been formed. The police includes a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains one Pacific-class patrol boat, the Lomor. Under the Compact of Free Association, defense is the responsibility of the United States.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/26551.htm|title=Background Note: Marshall Islands |publisher=United States Department of State }}{{cite web|url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2010/marshall-islands|title=Marshall Islands|website=www.freedomhouse.org|access-date=2012-06-20|archive-date=2012-03-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120327015640/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2010/marshall-islands|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.toptenz.net/top-10-countries-without-military-forces.php |title=Top 10 Countries Without Military Forces | Top 10 Lists |date=20 May 2010 |publisher=TopTenz.net |access-date=2013-03-30}}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Micronesia}} Federated States of Micronesia

| Since the country's foundation, no military has been formed. The police maintain a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains three Pacific-class patrol boats, FSS Palikir, FSS Micronesia, and FSS Independence. Defense is the responsibility of the United States under the Compact of Free Association.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27|url=http://oig.state.gov/oig/lbry/isprpts/eap/11982.htm|title=Inspection of Embassy Kolonia, Federated States of Micronesia (ISP-I-02-09)|publisher=United States Department of State|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070829054355/http://oig.state.gov/oig/lbry/isprpts/eap/11982.htm|archive-date=2007-08-29}}{{cite web|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/micronesia-federated-states-of/ |title=Micronesia, Federated States of |work=The World Factbook |publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency |access-date=2013-03-30}}{{cite web|url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/micronesia|title=Micronesia|website=www.freedomhouse.org|access-date=2012-06-19|archive-date=2013-03-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307043709/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/micronesia|url-status=dead}}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Nauru}} Nauru

| Since the country's foundation, no military has been formed. There is a relatively large armed police force, and an auxiliary police force for internal security. Australia is responsible for Nauru's defence under an informal agreement between the two countries.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-09-21 |url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/nauru/ |title=Nauru |work=The World Factbook |publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency}}{{cite web |url=http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/nauru |title=Guns in Nauru: Facts, Figures and Firearm Law |website=Gunpolicy.org |access-date=2012-06-17 |archive-date=18 July 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100718201339/http://www.gunpolicy.org/firearms/region/nauru |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/nauru/ |title=Nauru |work=The World Factbook |publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency |access-date=2012-06-17 }}{{cite web |url=http://www-rohan.sdsu.edu/faculty/rwinslow/asia_pacific/nauru.html |title=Comparative Criminology | Asia - Nauru |publisher=Rohan.sdsu.edu |access-date=2012-06-17 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151121035025/http://www-rohan.sdsu.edu/faculty/rwinslow/asia_pacific/nauru.html |archive-date=2015-11-21 }}{{cite web |url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/nauru |title=Nauru |publisher=Freedom House |access-date=2012-06-17 |archive-date=2012-09-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120917183011/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/nauru |url-status=dead }}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Palau}} Palau

| Since the country's foundation, no military has been formed. The police includes a 30-person Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains one Pacific-class patrol boat, Remeliik, and one Japanese-donated patrol boat, Kedam. Defense assistance is provided by the United States under the Compact of Free Association.

|align=center|{{cite encyclopedia|access-date=2008-02-27|url=http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Asia-and-Oceania/Palau.html|title=Palau |encyclopedia=Encyclopedia of the Nations }}{{cite web |url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/palau |title=Palau |publisher=Freedom House |access-date=2012-06-17 |archive-date=2013-03-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307053623/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/palau |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/1840.htm |title=U.S. Relations With Palau |website=United States Department of State |date=2012-02-07 |access-date=2012-06-17}}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Saint Lucia}} Saint Lucia

| The Royal Saint Lucia Police maintain two small paramilitary forces consisting of 116 people, the Special Service Unit, and the Coast Guard, both units are responsible for internal security. Defence is the responsibility of the Regional Security System.

|align=center|{{cite web|url=http://www.rslpf.com/hist.htm |title=Royal Saint Lucia Police Force |publisher=Rslpf.com |date=1961-11-04 |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web|url=http://www.nationmaster.com/country/st-saint-lucia/mil-military |title=Saint Lucian Military statistics, definitions and sources |website=Nationmaster.com |access-date=2012-06-17}}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Saint Vincent and the Grenadines}} Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

| The Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force maintain two paramilitary forces with a combined strength of 94 people (as of 2012); the Special Service Unit, and the Coast Guard, which are responsible for internal security and patrolling coastal waters respectively. Virtually all Coast Guard Commanders have been officers from the Royal Navy. Defence is the responsibility of the Regional Security System.

|align=center|{{cite web |url=http://www-rohan.sdsu.edu/faculty/rwinslow/namerica/stvincentgrenadines.html |title=Comparative Criminology | North America - Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |website=Rohan.sdsu.edu |date=1979-10-27 |access-date=2012-06-17 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150622061703/http://www-rohan.sdsu.edu/faculty/rwinslow/namerica/stvincentgrenadines.html |archive-date=2015-06-22 }}{{cite web |url=http://www.security.gov.vc/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=42&Itemid=51 |title=History |website=Ministry of National Security, Air and See Port Development, Government of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines |access-date=2012-06-17 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130325223917/http://www.security.gov.vc/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=42&Itemid=51 |archive-date=2013-03-25 }}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Samoa}} Samoa

| Since the country's foundation, no military has been formed. There is a small police force, and a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains a Pacific-class patrol boat. There are defence ties with New Zealand, which is required to consider any request for assistance under the Treaty of Friendship of 1962.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/samoa/|title=Samoa |website=The World Factbook |publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency}}{{cite web|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/1842.htm |title=Samoa |publisher=State.gov |date=2012-02-01 |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web |url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/samoa |title=Samoa |publisher=Freedom House |access-date=2012-06-17 |archive-date=2013-03-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307043248/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/samoa |url-status=dead }}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Solomon Islands}} Solomon Islands

| The Solomons have not had a military force since 1946. There is a relatively large police force, and a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains two Pacific-class patrol boats, the Auki and the Lata. Following heavy ethnic conflict, neighbouring countries intervened to restore law and order in 2003. The Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) was responsible for defence and policing assistance until 30 June 2017.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27 |url=http://www.defence.gov.au/minister/NelsonMintpl.cfm?CurrentId=5664 |title=Australian defence presence in solomon islands |publisher=Australian Government Department of Defense |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080817231336/http://defence.gov.au/minister/NelsonMintpl.cfm?CurrentId=5664 |archive-date=August 17, 2008 }}[http://britains-smallwars.com/RRGP/Solomons.html The Solomons Islands 1998-2003] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120509185544/http://britains-smallwars.com/RRGP/Solomons.html |date=2012-05-09 }}, [http://britains-smallwars.com/ britains-smallwars.com/].{{cite web |url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/solomon-islands |title=Solomon Islands |publisher=Freedom House |access-date=2012-06-17 |archive-date=2013-03-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307034657/http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/solomon-islands |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/solomon-islands/ |title=Solomon Islands |work=The World Factbook |publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web|url=http://www.ramsi.org/ |title=Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands - Home |publisher=RAMSI |date=2012-04-26 |access-date=2012-06-17}}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Tuvalu}} Tuvalu

| Since the country's foundation, no military has been formed. There is a small police force, which includes a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. The Maritime Surveillance Unit is equipped with small arms, and maintains a Pacific-class patrol boat, the Te Mataili II. Australia assumed responsibility for Tuvalu's national security in 2023 in accordance with the Australia–Tuvalu Falepili Union.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27|url=http://www.wpro.who.int/countries/tuv/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050426022545/http://www.wpro.who.int/countries/tuv/|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 26, 2005|title=Country Context |publisher=World Health Organization }}{{Cite web |url=http://www.vanuatu.usp.ac.fj/library/Paclaw/Tuvalu/Police%20Act.pdf |title=Laws of Tuvalu, Revised Edition 1978: Chapter 70: Police |access-date=2012-05-08 |archive-date=2018-10-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181003103945/http://www.vanuatu.usp.ac.fj/library/Paclaw/Tuvalu/Police%20Act.pdf |url-status=dead }}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Vatican City}} Vatican City

| The Pontifical Swiss Guard, an armed unit charged with protecting the pope, is officially under the authority of the Holy See rather than the Vatican City State. Vatican City has no defense treaty with Italy, as it would violate the Vatican City's neutrality, but informally the Italian Armed Forces protect Vatican City. The Palatine Guard and Noble Guard were abolished in 1970. Internal policing is the responsibility of the Gendarmerie Corps.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27 |url=http://dev.prenhall.com/divisions/hss/worldreference/VA/defense.html |title=Vatican City |publisher=World Desk Reference |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061122145658/http://dev.prenhall.com/divisions/hss/worldreference/VA/defense.html |archive-date=November 22, 2006 }}Charlies Witke, [http://www.miwsr.com/2012/downloads/2012-008.pdf Review of David Alvarez, The Pope's Soldiers: A Military History of the Modern Vatican], Michigan War Studies Review (January 20, 2012).{{cite web|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/holy-see-vatican-city/ |title=Holy See (Vatican City) |work=The World Factbook |publisher=United States Central Intelligence Agency |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite book|title=The Pope's Soldiers: A Military History of the Modern Vatican Modern War Studies|first=David|last=Alvarez|publisher=University Press of Kansas|date=2001|id={{ASIN|0700617701|country=uk}} }}

Sovereign states with no standing army but limited military

class="wikitable plainrowheaders" \|+Sovereign states with no standing army, but having limited military forces !width=100\| Country !Details !{{Reference heading}}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Costa Rica}} Costa Rica \|Article 12 of the Constitution has forbidden a standing army since 1949, following the Costa Rican Civil War. The Public Force, whose main role includes law enforcement, internal security and command of the Air Vigilance Service, has limited military capacities. \| align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27 \|url=http://dev.prenhall.com/divisions/hss/worldreference/CR/defense.html \|title=Costa Rica \|publisher=World Desk Reference \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080211185659/http://dev.prenhall.com/divisions/hss/worldreference/CR/defense.html \|archive-date=February 11, 2008 }}{{cite web\|url=http://www.elespiritudel48.org/docu/h013.htm\|author=El Espíritu del 48\|title=Abolición del Ejército\|access-date=2008-03-09}} (Spanish)
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Iceland}} Iceland \| Iceland has not had a standing army since 1869, but is an active member of NATO. The Crisis Response Unit is a military expeditionary peacekeeping force. There is an extensive militarised Coast Guard incorporating an air defence system, and a police service, including a police tactical unit. There is a defense agreement with the United States, which maintained an Iceland Defense Force and a military base in the country from 1951 to 2006. Following its closure, the U.S. announced it would continue to provide for Iceland's defense, but without permanently basing forces in the country. There are also agreements regarding military and other security operations with Norway, Denmark, and other NATO countries. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27\|url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/dod/idf.htm\|title=Iceland Defense Force \|publisher=Global Security }}{{cite web\|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/3396.htm \|title=U.S. Department of State: Iceland \|publisher=State.gov \|date=2011-11-08 \|access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web\|url=http://www.regjeringen.no/en/dep/ud/Press-Contacts/News/2007/mou-2.html?id=464488 \|title=A press release from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs \|publisher=Regjeringen.no \|date=2007-04-26 \|access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web\|url=http://www.regjeringen.no/upload/UD/Vedlegg/icelandmou.pdf \|title=An English translation of the Norwegian-Icelandic MoU at the website of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. \|access-date=2012-06-17}}[http://www.norwaypost.no/cgi-bin/norwaypost/imaker?id=72317 Norway Post: Norway and Iceland to sign defence agreement] {{webarchive \|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929092727/http://www.norwaypost.no/cgi-bin/norwaypost/imaker?id=72317 \|date=September 29, 2007 }}[http://www.aftenposten.no/english/local/article1753031.ece Aftenposten: Norway to help defend Iceland] {{webarchive \|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629022120/http://www.aftenposten.no/english/local/article1753031.ece \|date=June 29, 2011 }}{{cite web\|url=http://www.dr.dk/Nyheder/Indland/2007/04/26/120138.htm?rss=true \|title=Danmarks Radio \|publisher=Dr.dk \|date=2007-04-26 \|access-date=2012-06-17}}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Mauritius}} Mauritius \| Mauritius has not had a standing army since independence in 1968. All military, police, and security functions are carried out by 10,000 active duty personnel under the command of the Commissioner of Police. The 8,000-member National Police Force is responsible for domestic law enforcement. There are also a 1,500-member Special Mobile Force, and a 500-member National Coast Guard, which are both considered paramilitary units. Both units are equipped with small arms. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27\|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2833.htm\|title=Background Note: Mauritius \|publisher=United States Department of State }}{{cite web\|url=http://www.nationmaster.com/country/mp-mauritius/mil-military \|title=Mauritian Military Data \|publisher=Nationmaster.com \|access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web\|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/mauritius/ \|title=CIA - The World Factbook \|publisher=Cia.gov \|access-date=2012-06-17}}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Monaco}} Monaco \| Monaco renounced its general military investment in the 17th century because advancements in artillery technology had rendered it defenseless, but still self-identifies as having limited military forces. Although defense is the responsibility of France, two small military units are maintained: the Compagnie des Carabiniers du Prince primarily protects the Sovereign and judiciary, while the Corps des Sapeurs-Pompiers is responsible for civil defense and fire fighting. Both units are well-trained and equipped with small arms. In addition to the military, an armed national police force is maintained for internal security purposes. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27 \|url=http://www.monaco-consulate.com/news_1024.htm \|title=Monaco signs new treaty with France \|publisher=Monaco Consulate \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071021034944/http://www.monaco-consulate.com/news_1024.htm \|archive-date=2007-10-21 \|url-status=dead }}[http://www.pompiers.gouv.mc/321/wwwnew.nsf/1909!/x1Fr?OpenDocument&1Fr] {{webarchive\|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131206010807/http://www.pompiers.gouv.mc/321/wwwnew.nsf/1909%21/x1Fr?OpenDocument&1Fr\|date=December 6, 2013}}[http://www.pompiers.gouv.mc/321/wwwnew.nsf/1909$/db4c6e6016593114c1257163004604b2fr?OpenDocument&1Fr] {{webarchive\|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130812025216/http://www.pompiers.gouv.mc/321/wwwnew.nsf/1909%24/db4c6e6016593114c1257163004604b2fr?OpenDocument&1Fr\|date=August 12, 2013}}{{cite web\|url=http://www.palais.mc/monaco/palais-princier/francais/maison-souveraine/la-compagnie-des-carabiniers/la-compagnie-des-carabiniers-de-s-a-s-le-prince.70.html \|title=La Compagnie des Carabiniers de S.A.S. le Prince - Palais Princier de Monaco \|publisher=Palais.mc \|access-date=2012-06-17 \|url-status=dead \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120609024338/http://www.palais.mc/monaco/palais-princier/francais/maison-souveraine/la-compagnie-des-carabiniers/la-compagnie-des-carabiniers-de-s-a-s-le-prince.70.html \|archive-date=2012-06-09 }}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Panama}} Panama \|Panama abolished its army in 1990, which was confirmed by a constitutional change in 1994. The Panamanian Public Forces include the National Police, National Border Service, National Aeronaval Service, and Institutional Protection Service, which have some military capabilities. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|access-date=2008-02-27\|url=http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+pa0104)\|title=The Panama Defense Forces \|publisher=Library of Congress }}{{cite web\|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/panama/ \|title=CIA - The World Factbook \|publisher=Cia.gov \|access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web\|url=http://www.photius.com/wfb1999/panama/panama_military.html \|title=Panama military - Flags, Maps, Economy, Geography, Climate, Natural Resources, Current Issues, International Agreements, Population, Social Statistics, Political System \|publisher=Photius.com \|access-date=2012-06-17}}
scope=row\| {{Flag icon\|Vanuatu}} Vanuatu \| The Vanuatu Police Force maintains a paramilitary force, the Vanuatu Mobile Force, for internal security purposes. The Mobile Force consists of almost 300 men and women, who are well-equipped with small arms. There is also a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security. \|align=center\|{{cite web\|url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/vanuatu \|title=Vanuatu \|publisher=Freedom House \|access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web \|url=http://epress.anu.edu.au/kastom/mobile_devices/ch05s02.html \|title=The Vanuatu Police Force \|publisher=Epress.anu.edu.au \|access-date=2012-06-17 \|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419164404/http://epress.anu.edu.au/kastom/mobile_devices/ch05s02.html \|archive-date=2012-04-19 \|url-status=dead }}{{cite web\|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/vanuatu/ \|title=CIA - The World Factbook \|publisher=Cia.gov \|access-date=2012-06-17}}

class="wikitable plainrowheaders"

|+Sovereign states with no standing army, but having limited military forces

!width=100| Country

!Details

!{{Reference heading}}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Costa Rica}} Costa Rica

|Article 12 of the Constitution has forbidden a standing army since 1949, following the Costa Rican Civil War. The Public Force, whose main role includes law enforcement, internal security and command of the Air Vigilance Service, has limited military capacities.

| align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27 |url=http://dev.prenhall.com/divisions/hss/worldreference/CR/defense.html |title=Costa Rica |publisher=World Desk Reference |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080211185659/http://dev.prenhall.com/divisions/hss/worldreference/CR/defense.html |archive-date=February 11, 2008 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.elespiritudel48.org/docu/h013.htm|author=El Espíritu del 48|title=Abolición del Ejército|access-date=2008-03-09}} (Spanish)

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Iceland}} Iceland

| Iceland has not had a standing army since 1869, but is an active member of NATO. The Crisis Response Unit is a military expeditionary peacekeeping force. There is an extensive militarised Coast Guard incorporating an air defence system, and a police service, including a police tactical unit. There is a defense agreement with the United States, which maintained an Iceland Defense Force and a military base in the country from 1951 to 2006. Following its closure, the U.S. announced it would continue to provide for Iceland's defense, but without permanently basing forces in the country. There are also agreements regarding military and other security operations with Norway, Denmark, and other NATO countries.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27|url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/dod/idf.htm|title=Iceland Defense Force |publisher=Global Security }}{{cite web|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/3396.htm |title=U.S. Department of State: Iceland |publisher=State.gov |date=2011-11-08 |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web|url=http://www.regjeringen.no/en/dep/ud/Press-Contacts/News/2007/mou-2.html?id=464488 |title=A press release from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs |publisher=Regjeringen.no |date=2007-04-26 |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web|url=http://www.regjeringen.no/upload/UD/Vedlegg/icelandmou.pdf |title=An English translation of the Norwegian-Icelandic MoU at the website of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. |access-date=2012-06-17}}[http://www.norwaypost.no/cgi-bin/norwaypost/imaker?id=72317 Norway Post: Norway and Iceland to sign defence agreement] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929092727/http://www.norwaypost.no/cgi-bin/norwaypost/imaker?id=72317 |date=September 29, 2007 }}[http://www.aftenposten.no/english/local/article1753031.ece Aftenposten: Norway to help defend Iceland] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629022120/http://www.aftenposten.no/english/local/article1753031.ece |date=June 29, 2011 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.dr.dk/Nyheder/Indland/2007/04/26/120138.htm?rss=true |title=Danmarks Radio |publisher=Dr.dk |date=2007-04-26 |access-date=2012-06-17}}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Mauritius}} Mauritius

| Mauritius has not had a standing army since independence in 1968. All military, police, and security functions are carried out by 10,000 active duty personnel under the command of the Commissioner of Police. The 8,000-member National Police Force is responsible for domestic law enforcement. There are also a 1,500-member Special Mobile Force, and a 500-member National Coast Guard, which are both considered paramilitary units. Both units are equipped with small arms.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27|url=https://2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2833.htm|title=Background Note: Mauritius |publisher=United States Department of State }}{{cite web|url=http://www.nationmaster.com/country/mp-mauritius/mil-military |title=Mauritian Military Data |publisher=Nationmaster.com |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/mauritius/ |title=CIA - The World Factbook |publisher=Cia.gov |access-date=2012-06-17}}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Monaco}} Monaco

| Monaco renounced its general military investment in the 17th century because advancements in artillery technology had rendered it defenseless, but still self-identifies as having limited military forces. Although defense is the responsibility of France, two small military units are maintained: the Compagnie des Carabiniers du Prince primarily protects the Sovereign and judiciary, while the Corps des Sapeurs-Pompiers is responsible for civil defense and fire fighting. Both units are well-trained and equipped with small arms. In addition to the military, an armed national police force is maintained for internal security purposes.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27 |url=http://www.monaco-consulate.com/news_1024.htm |title=Monaco signs new treaty with France |publisher=Monaco Consulate |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071021034944/http://www.monaco-consulate.com/news_1024.htm |archive-date=2007-10-21 |url-status=dead }}[http://www.pompiers.gouv.mc/321/wwwnew.nsf/1909!/x1Fr?OpenDocument&1Fr] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131206010807/http://www.pompiers.gouv.mc/321/wwwnew.nsf/1909%21/x1Fr?OpenDocument&1Fr|date=December 6, 2013}}[http://www.pompiers.gouv.mc/321/wwwnew.nsf/1909$/db4c6e6016593114c1257163004604b2fr?OpenDocument&1Fr] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130812025216/http://www.pompiers.gouv.mc/321/wwwnew.nsf/1909%24/db4c6e6016593114c1257163004604b2fr?OpenDocument&1Fr|date=August 12, 2013}}{{cite web|url=http://www.palais.mc/monaco/palais-princier/francais/maison-souveraine/la-compagnie-des-carabiniers/la-compagnie-des-carabiniers-de-s-a-s-le-prince.70.html |title=La Compagnie des Carabiniers de S.A.S. le Prince - Palais Princier de Monaco |publisher=Palais.mc |access-date=2012-06-17 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120609024338/http://www.palais.mc/monaco/palais-princier/francais/maison-souveraine/la-compagnie-des-carabiniers/la-compagnie-des-carabiniers-de-s-a-s-le-prince.70.html |archive-date=2012-06-09 }}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Panama}} Panama

|Panama abolished its army in 1990, which was confirmed by a constitutional change in 1994. The Panamanian Public Forces include the National Police, National Border Service, National Aeronaval Service, and Institutional Protection Service, which have some military capabilities.

|align=center|{{cite web|access-date=2008-02-27|url=http://lcweb2.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/r?frd/cstdy:@field(DOCID+pa0104)|title=The Panama Defense Forces |publisher=Library of Congress }}{{cite web|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/panama/ |title=CIA - The World Factbook |publisher=Cia.gov |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web|url=http://www.photius.com/wfb1999/panama/panama_military.html |title=Panama military - Flags, Maps, Economy, Geography, Climate, Natural Resources, Current Issues, International Agreements, Population, Social Statistics, Political System |publisher=Photius.com |access-date=2012-06-17}}

scope=row| {{Flag icon|Vanuatu}} Vanuatu

| The Vanuatu Police Force maintains a paramilitary force, the Vanuatu Mobile Force, for internal security purposes. The Mobile Force consists of almost 300 men and women, who are well-equipped with small arms. There is also a Maritime Surveillance Unit for internal security.

|align=center|{{cite web|url=http://www.freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/2011/vanuatu |title=Vanuatu |publisher=Freedom House |access-date=2012-06-17}}{{cite web |url=http://epress.anu.edu.au/kastom/mobile_devices/ch05s02.html |title=The Vanuatu Police Force |publisher=Epress.anu.edu.au |access-date=2012-06-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120419164404/http://epress.anu.edu.au/kastom/mobile_devices/ch05s02.html |archive-date=2012-04-19 |url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/countries/vanuatu/ |title=CIA - The World Factbook |publisher=Cia.gov |access-date=2012-06-17}}

List of sovereign states without armed forces

Sovereign states without armed forces

Sovereign states with no standing army but limited military

See also

References

Further reading