Croatian lawmakers have voted to bring back compulsory military service for young men from next year. The government says the move will strengthen the country’s defence as conflicts continue in Europe and tension grows around the world.
The decision marks the end of a period that began in 2008 when Croatia stopped conscription while preparing to join NATO. Officials now argue that today’s risks require a larger pool of citizens with basic training.
Defence Minister Ivan Anusic told parliament that Croatia faces “a rise in various types of threats” that demand quick and effective action from society as a whole. He said protecting the country remains “crucial in the face of any threat”.
Around eighteen thousand men turning eighteen each year will be called for two months of basic training. Women will not be required to serve. Those who refuse military duties for personal reasons can complete three to four months of civil service in disaster response and similar roles. Recruits in uniform will be paid one thousand one hundred euros per month.
Supporters say the change will also help during emergencies such as wildfires and floods, which have become more common across southern Europe. The Defence Ministry says Croatia must be ready for challenges linked to the war in Ukraine as well as increasing natural disasters.
The plan was approved by a comfortable majority in Zagreb. Eighty four deputies backed changes to the defence law, and one hundred ten supported amendments to the law governing service in the armed forces.
Many people in the capital interviewed by AFP welcomed the shift. Luka Budiselic, a student aged twenty three, said military training would create “more structure” for young people and teach skills that are “very important for life”.
Manuela Skoblar, a mother of four, said it could help the next generation “grow up and accept life as it really is”.
Left leaning politicians criticised the plan. They argue it treats women unfairly because they are excluded from the main programme. They also warned that civil service participants will be at a disadvantage since they may receive less money and no priority for public sector jobs after finishing.
Africa Digital News, New York
