Several countries restore or expand conscription as regional security fears grow.
In response to heightened security concerns stemming from the ongoing war in Ukraine, many European nations are reinvigorating their military enlistment policies. This includes the expansion or restoration of conscription across several territories, reports 24brussels.
Austrian Military Policy
Austria maintains a six-month mandatory military service for men over 18, followed by an eight-year reserve commitment.
Belgium’s Military Plans
In February, Belgium’s coalition government, led by Bart De Wever of the Flemish Nationalist party, announced the introduction of voluntary military service for individuals starting at age 18. However, there are currently no plans to reinstate conscription.
Denmark’s New Law
On July 1, Denmark implemented legislation that mandates military service for women, a significant development following similar policies in Sweden and Norway. The Danish government targets a recruitment goal of 7,500 individuals annually, an increase from the 4,700 volunteers recorded in 2023.
Estonia’s Service Requirements
In Estonia, mandatory military service applies exclusively to men, with durations ranging from eight to eleven months.
Finland’s Military Amendments
Military service is compulsory for men while remaining voluntary for women in Finland. Recent legal changes aim to boost the reserve force to one million by 2031, extending the maximum reserve age from 50 to 65.
Germany’s Shift Towards Conscription
Germany is considering the reinstatement of military conscription, initially as a voluntary program, but with options to transition to mandatory service depending on volunteer enlistment. Following the suspension of conscription in 2011, the government plans to escalate active troop levels to approximately 260,000, with a requirement for all 18-year-old males to declare their service intentions starting in 2026.
Greece’s Conscription Policies
Due to persistent tensions with Turkey, Greece enforces mandatory service for men. Beginning in 2026, conscription will cease in the Navy and Air Force, which will shift towards a fully professional model, while the Army will retain its conscription policies amid pressing staffing requirements.
Italy’s Stance on Military Service
Italy suspended mandatory military service in 2004, and although there has been no substantial debate on its return, Matteo Salvini’s League party has proposed summoning up to 10,000 volunteer reservists in emergencies, a suggestion lacking widespread political endorsement.
Latvia’s Conscription Duration
Latvian men aged 18 to 27 are mandated to serve for 11 months, which may include military or civilian defense roles.
Lithuania’s Service Selection
In Lithuania, approximately 4,000 young individuals are randomly selected each year for nine months of service. Prime Minister-designate Inga Ruginiene has indicated that universal conscription may soon be unavoidable.
Netherlands’ Recruitment Initiatives
The Dutch government is actively seeking to enhance military capabilities through incentives and voluntary recruitment programs, though it is not contemplating a return to compulsory military service.
Norway’s Future Plans
In 2024, Norway announced plans to increase its number of conscripts by roughly 50% gradually by 2036.
Serbia and Croatia’s Revival of Conscription
Both Serbia and Croatia are reinstating conscription after having abolished it in 2011 and 2008, respectively, due to rising geopolitical tensions. Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vucic proposed a 75-day service for men up to age 30, set to begin in September 2025, pending legislative approval. Croatia anticipates the return of compulsory service in January 2026, including a paid two-month training program.
Spain’s Professional Forces
Spain discontinued mandatory military service in 2001. Defense Minister Margarita Robles affirmed her confidence in the professional armed forces when questioned about potential recruitment reforms, emphasizing that there is no intention to reinstate conscription.
Sweden’s Conscription Policy
Sweden reintroduced compulsory military service in 2017, doubling the number of conscripts since its abolition seven years prior.
Switzerland’s Mandatory Military Service
In Switzerland, all males are required to serve from ages 18 to 24.
Poland’s Recruitment Enhancements
The Polish government has intensified efforts to promote enlistment, implementing legal reforms to facilitate quicker recruitment and offering paid military training to civilians. Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced a plan for extensive military training for all adult men, targeting an armed forces size of 500,000, including reservists.
