European Nations Reinforce Military Service Amid Rising Tensions

Mandatory military service has been a topic of discussion across Europe as several countries continue to uphold conscription amid evolving geopolitical landscapes. While the United States ended its draft in January 1973, many European nations are reaffirming their commitment to compulsory military service, citing national security concerns and historical precedents.

Countries with Active Military Conscription

Among NATO member states, nine countries enforce mandatory military service. These include Greece, Turkey, and Norway, alongside others such as Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, and Lithuania. Notably, Croatia is set to reintroduce mandatory military service in 2024. Each of these countries implements conscription in varying formats, ranging from a few months of training to longer service periods.

In the Nordic region, countries like Norway, Denmark, and Finland maintain their conscription programs, reflecting traditions that some view as vital for civic responsibility. Sweden reinstated conscription in 2017 due to a perceived shift in security dynamics, allowing citizens to opt for civilian service as part of its “total defence duty” scheme. Similarly, Lithuania and Latvia have reintroduced military service in response to ongoing regional tensions.

Non-NATO European countries also practice conscription. Austria and Switzerland, both neutral states, uphold mandatory military service, while Cyprus continues to implement conscription against a backdrop of regional tensions. Belarus and Moldova also rely on conscripted forces, with Belarus conscripts serving for 18 months.

Variations in Conscription Models

The methods of selection and duration of service differ significantly across Europe. Countries typically fall into three categories regarding military conscription.

In a universal mandatory system, military service applies to nearly all eligible individuals, as seen in Finland, where males aged 18 to 60 are liable for compulsory military or civil service.

Others employ a lottery system; Denmark and Lithuania, for example, prioritize volunteers before selecting additional conscripts through a lottery mechanism. Latvia has recently reintroduced conscription, initially on a voluntary basis, but now uses a lottery to address shortfalls in volunteer numbers. To encourage enlistment, Latvia offers double pay for volunteers compared to conscripts.

A third model is selective compulsory service, as practiced in Sweden and Norway. In these countries, while there is a legal obligation to serve, only a small group is chosen based on health, aptitude, and motivation.

Gender policies also vary widely across different nations. Norway and Sweden feature gender-neutral conscription, applying to both men and women. Conversely, in places like Latvia and Finland, while women may volunteer for military service, they are not subject to the draft.

As European countries navigate the complexities of military service in the current global context, the ongoing debate about the necessity and effectiveness of conscription will likely persist. With tensions rising in various regions, the implications of these policies on national security and civic duty remain critical considerations for policymakers across the continent.