News|Russia-Ukraine warCroatia reintroduces mandatory military conscription after 17 yearsDefence Minister Ivan Anusic cites rise in ‘various types of threats’ amid regional security concerns and Russia-Ukraine war.
Croatian lawmakers have approved the reinstatement of mandatory military service to enhance the nation's defense capabilities. This decision comes in response to increasing global tensions and conflicts.
Croatian lawmakers have approved the reinstatement of mandatory military service to enhance the nation's defense capabilities. This decision comes in response to increasing global tensions and conflicts.
The Croatian parliament in Zagreb passed an amendment to the law, enabling the reinstatement of conscription. The country had originally abolished mandatory military service in 2008 to professionalize its military forces.
Under the new regulation, approximately 18,000 men will be conscripted annually for two months of training upon reaching the age of 18. Women are exempt from this requirement. Conscientious objectors have the option to serve in civil service roles for three or four months, including participation in disaster response teams. The initiative is expected to commence next year.
Croatian lawmakers have approved the reinstatement of mandatory military service to enhance the nation's defense capabilities.
Conscripts will receive a monthly payment of 1,100 euros ($1,280). Those opting for civil service roles are anticipated to receive lower compensation, although the exact amount is yet to be determined. Military service will also confer advantages for employment in public and state-run institutions.
Some opposition voices have raised concerns that the legislation discriminates against women and civil service volunteers due to disparities in compensation and benefits. The NATO member nation of Croatia, with a population of 3.8 million, joined the European Union in 2013.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.