Why Does Costa Rica Not Have a Standing Army?

Panama also follows in Costa Rica's footsteps by not maintaining a standing army. Both nations utilize the funds saved from this decision for education and healthcare, leading to significant advancements in these areas. In Costa Rica, one can even say with a sense of pride: “Blessed is the Costa Rican mother who knows that her son at birth will never don military uniform.”

Three Reasons for the Decision

1. Historical Context

In 1948, Costa Rica experienced a military coup. The winning President and government junta deemed it necessary to abolish the military to prevent its misuse against them. This decision was based on the understanding that the army could become a threat if left in their hands.

2. Allocation of Resources

Costa Rica redirected the funds previously allocated to the army towards education and healthcare. This strategic reallocation has resulted in a highly educated and healthy population with universal coverage. By investing in these areas, the country has laid a solid foundation for its continued progress.

3. Diplomacy and International Cooperation

Costa Rica has always been adept at diplomacy and has chosen to rely on international treaties and organizations for its security needs, rather than maintaining a standing army. A small nation like Costa Rica without significant rivals or traditional resources can better protect itself through these cooperative efforts.

Why Panama Also Follows Suit

But what about Panama? Panama also does not maintain a standing army. This decision allows the nation to allocate financial resources to other essential services such as education and healthcare. The concept is summarized in the saying: “Blessed is the Panamanian citizen who knows that their tax dollars are being spent on critical social programs rather than on military expenses.”

The Panamanian government oversees the Public Force of Costa Rica, a paramilitary agency focused on border security and policing, as well as the Air Vigilance service. While Panama has neighboring countries, it believes the risk of invasion is minimal and thus sees no need to maintain a large standing army, fearing that this could fall into the wrong hands.

This decision is not just about Panamanian history; it’s also about maintaining a balance between military might and public wellbeing.

Costa Rica: 73 Years Without a Standing Army

Costa Rica has been without a standing army for 73 years. But what exactly does this mean for such a small and peaceful nation? The absence of a standing army does not equate to a lack of security. Costa Rica relies on a domestic law enforcement organization and international alliances to provide the necessary protective functions.

Q: Why has Costa Rica gone 73 years without an army?
A: It doesn’t face an external existential threat. What would be the point?

Costa Rica’s choice to focus resources on education and healthcare has been a wise decision. The nation’s population is well-educated and healthy, contributing to a stable and prosperous society. By not maintaining a standing army, Costa Rica has freed up resources to improve the quality of life for its citizens, fostering a culture of peace and stability.

The decision to not maintain a standing army is a testament to Costa Rica’s vision of peace, education, and healthcare. As long as the nation continues to prioritize these areas, the absence of a standing army will undoubtedly remain a defining characteristic of the country.

Costa Rica’s peaceful and prosperous existence serves as an inspiration to other nations, showing that resources can be better spent on human development than military prowess.