France Introduces 10-Month Voluntary Military Scheme

France’s decision to introduce a 10-month voluntary military service from next summer has renewed attention on how European nations manage military conscription. With rising security concerns linked to Russia, several countries have retained, reinstated, or adapted military service systems to strengthen defence readiness.

Countries Retaining Mandatory Conscription

A number of European states continue to enforce compulsory service. Denmark recently extended service duration and made it mandatory for women. Finland requires six to 12 months of service for men, and Norway enforces 12 months for both genders. Estonia mandates eight to 11 months for men, while Greece obliges nine to 12 months for men. Cyprus, Austria, and Switzerland also maintain compulsory service for men, with voluntary options for women.

Nations Reinstating Compulsory Service

Security pressures have prompted some countries to revive conscription. Lithuania reinstated it in 2015 with a lottery-based system. Sweden restored conscription in 2017 for both men and women, with nine to 15 months of service. Latvia reintroduced 11 months of compulsory service in 2023, and Croatia has voted to bring back male conscription from next year.

Voluntary Military Service Initiatives

Several countries that once abolished conscription are now turning to voluntary systems. The Netherlands revived voluntary service in 2023, and Bulgaria launched a similar scheme in 2020. Belgium, which ended mandatory service in 1994, will introduce a 12-month voluntary programme in 2026. Romania plans a four-month voluntary service from next year, and Poland offers a one-month basic training followed by optional specialist service.

Exam Oriented Facts

• France suspended mandatory conscription in 1997 and is now introducing a voluntary system.
• Denmark and Norway enforce compulsory service for both men and women.
• Sweden’s reinstated conscription covers nine to 15 months for both genders.
• Belgium ended conscription in 1994 and will launch voluntary service in 2026.

Germany and Other Countries Evaluating Options

Germany, which abolished conscription in 2011, is planning a voluntary service targeting 20,000 recruits by 2026. Britain has shelved any move to restore mandatory service. Across Europe, countries are recalibrating defence structures through a mix of compulsory and voluntary service models to respond to evolving security challenges.