Conclusion

Abstract The Conclusion argues that states without armies benefit handsomely from their decision not to maintain armed forces. We will discuss the strength and stability of their democracies, the value of the absence of military political interference, and citizens’ support for and pride in their demilitarized countries. At the same time, not having a military renders them vulnerable to actual and threatened aggressive actions by their neighbors. But unarmed states are far better off in terms of socioeconomic development than their militarized neighbors. The book concludes with an assessment of the prospects of further countries embarking on the road toward demilitarization.