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With close to 200 countries on the planet, we are often captivated by extraordinary traditions, natural wonders, and awe-inspiring monuments scattered around the globe. Tourism boards eagerly showcase the unique delights that each nation has to offer.
But how familiar are you with what countries don’t have? Are you prepared to explore places where there's nothing to discover? No need for tickets to join this journey.
10. Countries Without Armies
Throughout the world, wars seem to be an ongoing reality, and 2017 was no different. Conflicts erupt, nations are invaded, and lives are lost daily. It’s clear that one of the primary roles of governments is to ensure the safety and security of their people.
Having a military, including an army, navy, or even, in Japan’s case, a “self-defense force,” is often seen as a given. Significant resources are diverted from productive ventures to fund more destructive purposes. Some might argue it’s a necessary evil.
Costa Rica stands out as an exception. Since 1948, the country has operated without a military. At that time, President Jose Figueres Ferrer made it part of the constitution that the military would be dissolved and the funds redirected toward national improvements. Education, culture, and health would become the priority, along with strengthening the police force.
That’s not to say Costa Rica is without challenges. Issues such as territorial disputes with neighboring Nicaragua and the passage of drugs from south to north persist. Nevertheless, it requires a remarkable level of confidence to do away with a military, and Costa Rica is one of over 20 nations without official armed forces. Here’s to supporting peace.
9. Countries Without Illegal Drugs
While Canada and several US states are in various stages of legalizing cannabis, they might appear to be at the forefront of transforming the War on Drugs. The Netherlands is known for its coffee shops and progressive stance on marijuana. However, when it comes to hard drugs, many are surprised to find that Portugal takes the lead in adopting tolerant policies.
Portugal decriminalized all drugs back in 2001. Yes, every drug—heroin, cocaine, and more. Portugal took a distinct approach by viewing drug use as a public health issue rather than a criminal matter.
Since implementing this policy, Portugal has one of the lowest fatal overdose death rates in Europe. It averages just 3 deaths per million, compared to 44.6 in the UK and an EU-wide average of 17.3. While there are certainly other factors at play, this policy offers an intriguing case study.
8. Countries Without Governments
Typically, a sovereign state requires a functioning government to manage its affairs. In 2011, Belgium set a world record for being without an official government for the longest time in modern history.
Belgium went a remarkable 589 days without a government. Despite the absence of formal leadership, the country’s decentralized political system allowed daily life to continue. Bureaucrats kept their jobs, and the streets remained peaceful, free from protests.
Western Sahara is located south of Morocco, sharing borders with Algeria and Mauritania. Colonized by Spain in 1884, it was annexed by Morocco in 1957 following World War II and the decolonization movement.
For many years, Western Sahara has been a contested area, claimed by both Morocco and the Polisario Front. Despite efforts by the United Nations, no agreement has been reached, and it seems that Western Sahara will continue to lack a stable government for the foreseeable future.
7. Countries Without Names On Stamps
There’s one country in the world that doesn’t have to include its country name on its stamps, even when they are used for international mail. If you’re a stamp collector, you might already know about this oddity. If not, get ready to have your understanding of stamps turned upside down.
In 1840, Great Britain became the first nation to issue stamps. The idea quickly gained popularity and addressed a major issue in the world of postage—providing proof of payment. British stamps have always included a portrait of the reigning monarch, a tradition that remains a distinctive feature.
In 1874, the Universal Postal Union granted Great Britain the unique privilege of not needing to include its country name on its stamp designs, a distinction that still holds today.
6. Countries Without External Debt
While the figures fluctuate constantly, recent estimates place the United States’ external debt (which refers to the total public and private debt owed to foreign entities) at an astounding $17.91 trillion. The United Kingdom’s debt is at $8.13 trillion. The global total surpasses $76 trillion. Nearly every country on Earth owes staggering amounts—millions, billions, or even trillions—to others.
Though it’s often said that “money makes the world go around,” perhaps it would be more accurate to say that “debt” is the real driving force behind the global economy. It’s hard to imagine how the system could keep functioning under such massive debt, yet even more remarkable is the case of Brunei, a tiny country located on Borneo in Southeast Asia, which has no external debt. Not a single dollar. Their external debt is a big fat zero.
How has Brunei managed to avoid the burden of debt? Two words: “gas” and “oil.” These resources have powered the country’s extraordinary wealth.
Since gaining independence from the UK in 1984, Brunei has flourished. The citizens of Brunei benefit from a generous welfare system, with food and housing heavily subsidized. Government debt remains impressively low at just 3.1 percent, with only Hong Kong outperforming it. Well done, Brunei.
5. A Land Without A Home Base
London. Paris. Poland. Banana. Christmas.
What connects these words? You might be surprised to learn that London, Paris, Poland, and Banana are all names of villages on Christmas Island. Kiritimati, which is a variation of “Christmas,” is located in the heart of the Pacific Ocean and is part of the Republic of Kiribati.
Kiribati is derived from a variant of “Gilberts,” named after the British explorer Thomas Gilbert. Having been colonized by the British, invaded by the Japanese, and used as a nuclear testing site by both the British and the Americans, Kiribati has endured numerous challenges.
You may have heard of Kiribati when the New Year is announced. Situated at UTC+14, it ranks among the first countries to greet the New Year. This position places the 180th meridian, on the opposite side of the Earth from the prime meridian, directly through the islands. The equator also crosses through Kiribati, making it the only country to span all four hemispheres.
Unfortunately, Kiribati's low-lying islands are facing significant threats from rising sea levels. To address the impending issue of climate-change refugees, the president of Kiribati purchased land on Vanua Levu in Fiji in 2014 as a precautionary measure.
4. No National Anthem
International sporting events like the World Cup and the Olympics offer opportunities for nations and their citizens to show pride, wave flags, and sing (or mumble) their national anthems. For instance, the UK has “God Save the Queen,” the US sings “The Star-Spangled Banner,” Brunei has “God Bless the Sultan,” and Equatorial Guinea boasts the impressively titled “Let Us Tread the Path of our Immense Happiness.” Quite a mouthful.
Greece's national anthem, “Hymn to Liberty” or “Hymn to Freedom,” holds the distinction of being the longest anthem in the world with 158 verses. Fortunately, only the first two verses are typically performed.
You might assume that a national anthem would be exclusive to a single country. However, the Greek national anthem holds the distinction of being the official anthem of another nation as well, the Republic of Cyprus. It has been sung in Cyprus since 1966.
3. No Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are considered the deadliest creatures on the planet. Sharks cause around 10 deaths each year, hippos account for about 500, dogs claim roughly 25,000 lives, and snakes take about 50,000 lives annually. In second place, humans kill 475,000 people every year. But mosquitoes, through the spread of diseases like malaria, dengue, yellow fever, and encephalitis, are by far the deadliest, causing around 725,000 deaths per year.
Mosquitoes can be found in nearly every country. So, is there any way to escape the constant buzz, the irritating bite, and the potentially deadly diseases they spread?
Yes—if you head to Iceland! While Greenland is known for being quite icy, Iceland is much greener. But the confusing names can be traced back to the Vikings who named the islands based on their initial impressions of the climate. In any case, the good news is that Iceland is completely mosquito-free, whereas Greenland is not!
2. No Grass
In many places, growing grass is no easy feat. In countries with scorching desert climates, cultivating grass—especially lush, green grass—can be incredibly difficult. Extensive irrigation systems are often necessary. While it’s technically possible to grow grass in such arid environments, it’s a significant challenge.
Some unconfirmed reports suggest that FIFA requires football teams to maintain grass playing fields in order to compete internationally. This might pose a dilemma for Greenland.
Despite its name, Greenland isn’t all that green. There isn’t a single grass football field on the island, and the harsh weather conditions make that goal unfeasible. Additionally, Greenland faces political hurdles—it is an “autonomous region” of Denmark. Although Greenland has its own national football team, it doesn’t technically qualify as a fully independent country.
Along with the lack of grass, Greenland’s situation certainly makes it a tough sell to FIFA. But change is always possible over time.
1. No Words
While the people of Cyprus may share their anthem with another nation, at least they have lyrics to sing along with. But have you ever watched the World Cup and noticed how the players barely move their lips during the anthem? It might be because they’re Spanish.
Spain’s national anthem, “Marcha Real” (“Royal March”), stands out because it has no lyrics. This has been the case since 1978. Before that, it did have words, but they were considered too “fascist.” There have been various efforts to find new lyrics for the anthem, but for now, the Spanish will likely just hum along during performances.
