Annual defense budget: $89m 

Defense spending trend: Up 17% in 2002

Costa Rica emerged from the 1948 civil war as a neutral, demilitarized modern state. A 4400-strong Civil Guard is complemented by a largely military-trained police force. Spending on security as a percentage of GDP has long been the lowest in the region. Lack of a common command structure hinders the influence of the security forces but also renders them less open to public control. Right-wing paramilitary groups are known to exist.

COSTA RICAN ARMED FORCES

Army
		None		None
Navy
		None		None
Air force
		None		None
Nuclear capability
		None

From "The Financial Times World Desk Reference" © Dorling Kindersley 2004