France's recent decision to implement a 10-month voluntary military service starting next summer has reignited discussions regarding how European nations manage military conscription. Amid increasing security threats related to Russia, several countries have either maintained, reintroduced, or modified their military service systems to bolster defense preparedness.
A number of European nations continue to enforce compulsory military service. For instance, Denmark has recently extended its service duration and made it mandatory for women. Finland mandates six to 12 months of service for men, while Norway enforces a 12-month requirement for both genders. Other countries such as Estonia and Greece have similar policies, mandating eight to 11 months and nine to 12 months of service for men, respectively. Nations like Cyprus, Austria, and Switzerland also maintain compulsory service for men, with voluntary options available for women.
In response to security pressures, some countries have reinstated conscription. Lithuania brought back conscription in 2015 using a lottery-based system. Sweden restored conscription in 2017 for both genders, requiring service of nine to 15 months. Latvia reintroduced 11 months of mandatory service in 2023, while Croatia has voted to revive male conscription starting next year.
Several countries that had previously abolished conscription are now adopting voluntary military service models. The Netherlands reintroduced voluntary service in 2023, while Bulgaria initiated a similar program in 2020. Belgium, which ended mandatory service in 1994, plans to launch a 12-month voluntary program in 2026. Romania is set to implement a four-month voluntary service from next year, while Poland offers a one-month basic training followed by optional specialized service.
France suspended mandatory conscription in 1997 and is now transitioning to a voluntary system. Countries like Denmark and Norway enforce compulsory service for both genders, while
Kutos : AI Assistant!
