1. Costa Rica
First country to formally abolish military forces. The constitution has forbidden a standing military since 1949. It does have a public security force, whose role includes law enforcement and internal security. For this reason Costa Rica is the HQ for the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and also the United Nations' University for Peace.
2. Grenada
No standing army since 1983 due to an American-led invasion. The Royal Grenada Police Force maintains a paramilitary special service unit for internal security purposes. Defense is the responsibility of the Regional Security System.
3. Kiribati
The only forces permitted are the police and the coast guard. Defense assistance is provided by Australia and New Zealand.
4. Liechtenstein
Abolished its army 1868 because it was deemed too costly. Army is only permitted in times of war, but that situation has never occurred. However, country maintains a police force and a SWAT team, equipped with small arms to carry out internal security duties.
5. Marshall Islands
Defence is the responsibility of the United States.
6. Federated States of Micronesia
Defence is the responsibility of the United States. Maintains a small paramilitary police force.
7. Nauru
Australia is responsible for Nauru's defense under an informal agreement between the two countries.
8. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
The Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force maintains a paramilitary special service unit for internal security purposes. Defense is the responsibility of Regional Security System.
9. Samoa
Does not have a standing army. New Zealand can be called upon for military aid per a 1962 agreement.
10. Solomon Islands Had a heavy ethnic conflict between 1998 and 2006, in which Australia, New Zealand and other Pacific countries intervened to restore peace and order. Has no standing army.
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