Military Expenditure (% of GDP) 2005
Military expenditure as a percentage of GDP reflects a country's military focus relative to its economy.
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Complete Data Rankings
Rank | Actions | ||
|---|---|---|---|
1 | Saudi Arabia | 7.731 % | |
2 | Oman | 7.714 % | |
3 | Israel | 5.981 % | |
4 | Belarus | 5.607 % | |
5 | Syrian Arab Republic | 5.026 % | |
6 | Yemen | 4.868 % | |
7 | Jordan | 4.795 % | |
8 | Djibouti | 4.508 % | |
9 | Lebanon | 4.477 % | |
10 | Burundi | 4.436 % | |
11 | Kuwait | 4.343 % | |
12 | Singapore | 4.275 % | |
13 | United States | 4.089 % | |
14 | Pakistan | 3.897 % | |
15 | Angola | 3.692 % | |
16 | United Arab Emirates | 3.656 % | |
17 | Colombia | 3.375 % | |
18 | Georgia | 3.339 % | |
19 | Russia | 3.331 % | |
20 | Sudan | 3.311 % | |
21 | Morocco | 3.258 % | |
22 | Bahrain | 3.214 % | |
23 | Kyrgyzstan | 3.078 % | |
24 | Mauritania | 3.052 % | |
25 | Iran | 3.037 % | |
26 | India | 2.911 % | |
27 | Greece | 2.902 % | |
28 | Armenia | 2.872 % | |
29 | Botswana | 2.858 % | |
30 | Ethiopia | 2.812 % | |
31 | Ukraine | 2.792 % | |
32 | Algeria | 2.732 % | |
33 | Egypt | 2.714 % | |
34 | Montenegro | 2.694 % | |
35 | Namibia | 2.645 % | |
36 | Sri Lanka | 2.64 % | |
37 | Chile | 2.535 % | |
38 | United Kingdom | 2.416 % | |
39 | Turkey | 2.377 % | |
40 | Ecuador | 2.368 % | |
41 | Brunei Darussalam | 2.349 % | |
42 | Azerbaijan | 2.299 % | |
43 | South Korea | 2.28 % | |
44 | Iraq | 2.243 % | |
45 | Bulgaria | 2.235 % | |
46 | Serbia | 2.222 % | |
47 | Malaysia | 2.174 % | |
48 | Taiwan | 2.141 % | |
49 | Lesotho | 2.049 % | |
50 | Cyprus | 2.037 % | |
51 | Eswatini | 2.033 % | |
52 | North Macedonia | 2.029 % | |
53 | France | 2.028 % | |
54 | Romania | 2.007 % | |
55 | Uruguay | 2 % | |
56 | Qatar | 1.993 % | |
57 | Afghanistan | 1.992 % | |
58 | Poland | 1.921 % | |
59 | Guinea-Bissau | 1.895 % | |
60 | Zambia | 1.848 % | |
61 | China | 1.846 % | |
62 | Venezuela | 1.832 % | |
63 | Australia | 1.793 % | |
64 | Vietnam | 1.781 % | |
65 | Timor-Leste | 1.78 % | |
66 | Czech Republic | 1.777 % | |
67 | Croatia | 1.744 % | |
68 | Rwanda | 1.743 % | |
69 | Bolivia | 1.717 % | |
70 | Kenya | 1.691 % | |
71 | Nepal | 1.688 % | |
72 | Slovakia | 1.686 % | |
73 | Uganda | 1.684 % | |
74 | Latvia | 1.671 % | |
75 | Seychelles | 1.602 % | |
76 | Italy | 1.595 % | |
77 | Portugal | 1.594 % | |
78 | Peru | 1.581 % | |
79 | Myanmar | 1.577 % | |
80 | Norway | 1.576 % | |
81 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | 1.544 % | |
82 | Brazil | 1.524 % | |
83 | Congo | 1.518 % | |
84 | Finland | 1.465 % | |
85 | Togo | 1.457 % | |
86 | Zimbabwe | 1.453 % | |
87 | Tunisia | 1.452 % | |
88 | Estonia | 1.45 % | |
89 | Slovenia | 1.43 % | |
90 | Libya | 1.414 % | |
91 | Hungary | 1.411 % | |
92 | Guyana | 1.41 % | |
93 | Sweden | 1.409 % | |
94 | Netherlands | 1.391 % | |
95 | Spain | 1.387 % | |
96 | Mali | 1.384 % | |
97 | Albania | 1.334 % | |
98 | Fiji | 1.324 % | |
99 | Congo, Democratic Republic of the | 1.31 % | |
100 | Denmark | 1.308 % | |
101 | Philippines | 1.278 % | |
102 | Gabon | 1.249 % | |
103 | South Africa | 1.235 % | |
104 | Germany | 1.233 % | |
105 | Burkina Faso | 1.202 % | |
106 | Lithuania | 1.163 % | |
107 | Bangladesh | 1.157 % | |
108 | Cameroon | 1.144 % | |
109 | New Zealand | 1.14 % | |
110 | Senegal | 1.13 % | |
111 | Canada | 1.107 % | |
112 | Belgium | 1.097 % | |
113 | Central African Republic | 1.09 % | |
114 | Madagascar | 1.072 % | |
115 | Côte d'Ivoire | 1.058 % | |
116 | Kazakhstan | 1.036 % | |
117 | Mongolia | 1.017 % | |
118 | Cambodia | 1.004 % | |
119 | Thailand | 0.986 % | |
120 | Japan | 0.909 % | |
121 | El Salvador | 0.904 % | |
122 | Sierra Leone | 0.859 % | |
123 | Austria | 0.856 % | |
124 | Liberia | 0.85 % | |
125 | Argentina | 0.847 % | |
126 | Switzerland | 0.833 % | |
127 | Tanzania | 0.824 % | |
128 | Malta | 0.823 % | |
129 | Dominican Republic | 0.767 % | |
130 | Belize | 0.763 % | |
131 | Indonesia | 0.751 % | |
132 | Malawi | 0.742 % | |
133 | Paraguay | 0.721 % | |
134 | Niger | 0.715 % | |
135 | Mozambique | 0.702 % | |
136 | Nicaragua | 0.7 % | |
137 | Benin | 0.681 % | |
138 | Cabo Verde | 0.649 % | |
139 | Luxembourg | 0.647 % | |
140 | Honduras | 0.641 % | |
141 | Chad | 0.611 % | |
142 | Trinidad and Tobago | 0.605 % | |
143 | Ireland | 0.541 % | |
144 | Jamaica | 0.528 % | |
145 | Papua New Guinea | 0.417 % | |
146 | Republic of Moldova | 0.4 % | |
147 | Nigeria | 0.397 % | |
148 | Laos | 0.393 % | |
149 | Guatemala | 0.384 % | |
150 | Mexico | 0.34 % | |
151 | Gambia | 0.277 % | |
152 | Ghana | 0.261 % | |
153 | Mauritius | 0.161 % | |
154 | Costa Rica | 0 % | |
155 | Iceland | 0 % | |
156 | Panama | 0 % |
- #1
Saudi Arabia
- #2
Oman
- #3
Israel
- #4
Belarus
- #5
Syrian Arab Republic
- #6
Yemen
- #7
Jordan
- #8
Djibouti
- #9
Lebanon
- #10
Burundi
Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.
- #156
Panama
- #155
Iceland
- #154
Costa Rica
- #153
Mauritius
- #152
Ghana
- #151
Gambia
- #150
Mexico
- #149
Guatemala
- #148
Laos
- #147
Nigeria
Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.
Analysis & Context
In 2005, Saudi Arabia led the world in Military Expenditure (% of GDP) with a staggering 7.73%, while the global range spanned from 0.00% to 7.73%. The global average for military expenditure as a percentage of GDP was 1.89%, providing a benchmark for international comparisons.
Concentration of High Military Spending
The data from 2005 reveals a concentration of high military expenditure in specific regions, particularly the Middle East. Saudi Arabia and Oman topped the list with expenditures of 7.73% and 7.71% respectively. This emphasis on military spending in the Middle East can be attributed to ongoing regional conflicts and the strategic importance of military readiness. Countries like Israel and Jordan also show high expenditures at 5.98% and 4.79%, reflecting geopolitical tensions and security concerns in the region.
Minimal Military Spending and Economic Strategies
At the other end of the spectrum, several countries reported minimal military spending relative to their GDP. Iceland, Costa Rica, and Panama recorded 0.00%, emphasizing their strategic policies of neutrality and limited military engagement. For instance, Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948 to allocate resources to education and healthcare, a model of economic strategy that prioritizes social development over military expansion. Similarly, Mauritius and Ghana maintained low expenditures at 0.16% and 0.26%, reflecting a focus on internal development and peace-oriented policies.
Year-over-Year Changes in Military Expenditure
Analyzing the year-over-year changes, Georgia experienced the most significant increase in military expenditure, rising by 1.97%, a 143.1% increase from the previous year. This surge can be linked to escalating regional tensions and a strategic pivot towards strengthening military capabilities. Conversely, Belarus saw the largest decrease, dropping by 2.91% or 34.2%
Global Trends and Economic Implications
The global average military expenditure of 1.89% in 2005 reflects a diverse range of strategic priorities among countries. While some nations prioritize military readiness due to geopolitical threats, others invest in socio-economic development by maintaining lower military budgets. The data indicates a general trend of decreased military spending, with an average year-over-year decrease of -0.13% or -2.6%. Notably, countries such as Venezuela and Iraq increased their spending by 0.54% and 0.57% respectively, possibly due to internal security challenges and external pressures.
Overall, the 2005 military expenditure data underscores the complex interplay between economic capacity, geopolitical strategy, and national security priorities. These patterns highlight how countries balance the demands of military investment with other critical areas of national interest.
Frequently Asked Questions About Military Expenditure (% of GDP) in 2005
Which country had the highest military expenditure as a percentage of GDP in 2005?
Saudi Arabia had the highest military expenditure as a percentage of GDP in 2005, with 7.73%.
Which country had the lowest military expenditure as a percentage of GDP in 2005?
Iceland had the lowest military expenditure as a percentage of GDP in 2005, with 0%.
What was the average military expenditure as a percentage of GDP across all countries in 2005?
The average military expenditure as a percentage of GDP across all countries in 2005 was 1.89%.
What was the median military expenditure as a percentage of GDP in 2005?
The median military expenditure as a percentage of GDP in 2005 was 1.58%.
Which countries were in the top 3 for military expenditure as a percentage of GDP in 2005?
The top 3 countries for military expenditure as a percentage of GDP in 2005 were Saudi Arabia (7.73%), Oman (7.71%), and Israel (5.98%).
How many countries had a military expenditure of 0% of GDP in 2005?
Three countries had a military expenditure of 0% of GDP in 2005: Iceland, Costa Rica, and Panama.
Insights by country
Burundi
In 2005, Burundi ranked #10 globally for Military Expenditure (% of GDP) at 4.43619 %. This figure is significantly higher than the average military expenditure in Africa, which is typically around 2-3% of GDP. The high military spending in Burundi can be attributed to ongoing security concerns stemming from its history of civil conflict and regional instability, necessitating a strong defense posture.
Albania
In 2005, Albania ranked #97 globally for Military Expenditure (% of GDP) at 1.3339647 %. This figure is relatively low compared to the NATO average, which typically exceeds 2%. The modest military spending reflects Albania's post-communist transition and ongoing economic challenges, as the country focused on development and integration into European structures rather than military expansion.
Belgium
In 2005, Belgium's Military Expenditure (% of GDP) was 1.0966412 %, ranking #112 out of 156 countries. This figure is below the NATO guideline of 2% of GDP, reflecting Belgium's historical commitment to collective defense rather than unilateral military investment. Additionally, Belgium's strategic location in Europe and its participation in international organizations contribute to a defense policy that prioritizes diplomacy and multilateral cooperation over extensive military spending.
Georgia
In 2005, Georgia ranked #18 globally with a military expenditure of 3.33917 % of its GDP. This figure is notably higher than the global average, reflecting the country's strategic focus on defense amid regional tensions. The significant military spending can be attributed to Georgia's geopolitical situation, particularly its conflicts with Russia and the ongoing need to bolster national security and territorial integrity.
Malawi
In 2005, Malawi ranked #132 globally with a military expenditure of 0.74237365 % of its GDP. This figure is significantly lower than the global average, reflecting Malawi's focus on social and economic development rather than military enhancement. The country's limited financial resources, coupled with a history of prioritizing agriculture and health over defense, contribute to this low military spending.
Afghanistan
In 2005, Afghanistan ranked #57 globally with a military expenditure of 1.9920657 % of its GDP. This figure is relatively low compared to many neighboring countries, reflecting the challenges Afghanistan faced in rebuilding its military after years of conflict. The high military expenditure relative to GDP can be attributed to ongoing security concerns and the need for international support, particularly from NATO forces, to stabilize the nation during a critical transitional period.
Benin
In 2005, Benin ranked #137 globally with a Military Expenditure of 0.68097067 % of its GDP. This figure is notably lower than the global average, reflecting the country's limited military budget compared to more militarized nations. The low expenditure can be attributed to Benin's focus on socio-economic development and stability, alongside its relatively peaceful regional context in West Africa.
Lebanon
In 2005, Lebanon ranked #9 globally in military expenditure, allocating 4.477395 % of its GDP to defense. This figure is significantly higher than the global average, reflecting Lebanon's ongoing security challenges and regional tensions, particularly with neighboring Israel and Syria. The high military spending is driven by the need to maintain armed forces capable of addressing internal and external threats, amid a complex socio-political landscape.
Honduras
In 2005, Honduras ranked #140 globally with a military expenditure of 0.6414785 % of its GDP. This figure is notably lower than the global average, indicating limited military investment compared to many other nations.
The relatively low military spending in Honduras can be attributed to its economic challenges and a focus on social development rather than military enhancement. Additionally, the country has faced significant issues such as poverty and political instability, which have influenced its defense budget priorities.
Morocco
In 2005, Morocco ranked #21 globally in military expenditure, allocating 3.257997 % of its GDP to defense. This figure is notably higher than the average military expenditure of many neighboring North African countries, reflecting Morocco's strategic focus on regional stability and security. The country's military spending is influenced by its geopolitical position, ongoing territorial disputes, and efforts to combat terrorism, which necessitate a robust defense posture.
Data Source
Military spending as a share of GDP | Our World in Data
Our World in Data is a research organization that provides extensive datasets on various global issues, including military spending as a share of GDP. The dataset offers country-level statistics that illustrate trends and comparisons in military expenditure relative to national economic output.
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