Does Costa Rica have a military?
A direct answer:
Costa Rica does not have a traditional military in the sense of a large standing army. In fact, since 1948, the country has had a formal commitment to maintain its neutrality and disarmament, making it one of the few countries in the world without a standing military. This commitment is embedded in the Constitución Política de Costa Rica (Costa Rican Political Constitution), Article 12, Section 13.
However, does that mean Costa Rica is entirely defenseless? Not entirely. Despite having no army, Costa Rica has found creative ways to maintain domestic and international security, as we will discuss further in this article.
History of Costa Rica’s military disbandment:
Before 1948, Costa Rica did have a small military, comprising about 1,500 soldiers. However, the civil war that erupted in 1944 led to significant human and material losses. Additionally, the economic burden of maintaining a military was also seen as a hindrance to the country’s growth.
In the aftermath of the war, the Constitution of 1949 (still in force today) enshrined the idea of total disarmament. Article 12, Section 3 states that " Costa Rica shall maintain its defense based on a policy of peaceful coexistence, repelling aggression and defending national sovereignty, using the force that is proportionate and necessary to defend the institution, the democracy and the peace."
Costa Rica’s military alternatives:
So, how does Costa Rica ensure its safety without a standing army?
• The Fuerza Pública (Police Force): Costa Rica has a well-structured and well-equipped Police Force, with approximately 10,000 officers and police personnel. This force is responsible for domestic security, crime prevention, and law enforcement.
• The Armada de la República de Costa Rica (Navy): Although Costa Rica’s navy is small, with only three patrol ships and a few smaller boats, it is responsible for protecting the country’s marine territory and engaging in rescue and humanitarian operations.
• The Escazú Agreement: In 2018, Costa Rica and its neighboring countries in Central America (El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua) signed the Escazú Agreement. This agreement enhances regional cooperation for security, intelligence sharing, and joint actions to counter threats such as organized crime and terrorism.
• Participation in international security operations: Costa Rica occasionally participates in international peacekeeping and disaster response operations as a humanitarian partner, showcasing its commitment to international peace and security.
| Country | Total Military | Naval Vessels |
|---|---|---|
| Costa Rica | 0 | 3 |
| El Salvador | 13,700 | 13 |
| Guatemala | 28,800 | 12 |
| Honduras | 38,000 | 30 |
| Nicaragua | 11,300 | 21 |
Comparison to other Central American countries’ military strength:
| Rank | Country | GDP per capita | Military per capita |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Panama | 28,230 | 23.47 |
| 2 | Costa Rica | 11,970 | 0.00 |
| 3 | Honduras | 4,230 | 33.33 |
| 4 | Nicaragua | 1,610 | 30.33 |
| 5 | Guatemala | 1,240 | 30.77 |
| 6 | El Salvador | 2,210 | 43.23 |
Conclusions and recommendations:
Costa Rica’s commitment to neutrality and disarmament is rooted in its history, political culture, and its belief in international cooperation to achieve regional and global peace.
• It is worth considering the concept of defense beyond traditional military forces: In Costa Rica’s case, the emphasis on education, social cohesion, and a strong justice system all play crucial roles in maintaining societal stability and addressing security challenges.
• Regional security is a critical aspect in addressing global challenges: Strong partnerships and regional cooperation through initiatives like the Escazú Agreement can play a vital role in strengthening international security.
• Global recognition and support can bolster Costa Rica’s model: By acknowledging and encouraging the country’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, neighboring nations and the international community can help solidify its non-military approach, demonstrating that effective security policies need not involve military confrontation.
In summary, Costa Rica’s disbandment of its standing army is an integral part of its defense strategy. By prioritizing a police force, naval fleet, and international cooperation, Costa Rica maintains its reputation as a peace-loving and pro-peace nation while adapting to regional and global challenges.
