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European countries to return compulsory military service in face of Russian threats

Politiko 2025-03-16 15:13:57

European countries to return compulsory military service in face of Russian

As the war in Ukraine approaches its third year and tensions with Russia are not fading, European countries are discussing the possibility of restoring compulsory military service to bolster their defenses.

Fears about NATO's power and the controversial positions of former US President Donald Trump, who has suggested Europe should defend itself, have deepened the uncertainties of EU countries. According to a study by co-authors Alexandr Burilkov and experts at the Bruegel Think Tank and the Kiel Institute, Europe may need 300,000 more troops to cope with Russian aggression. Currently, the continent counts 1.47 million active duty military personnel.


However, many countries like France and the UK are facing difficulties recruiting and retaining troops. According to a YouGov poll, 68% of French and 58% of Germans support the return of compulsory military service for young people, while a majority of Spaniards (53%) oppose it.

Poland has announced plans to train 100,000 civilians each year starting in 2027, through a voluntary scheme that will provide incentives to participants. Germany's likely chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has voiced support for the return of a "mandatory year" where young people can perform military or community services.


In France, where compulsory military service ended in 2001, President Emmanuel Macron has said a lack of logistics makes it impossible to restore compulsory conscription, but is looking for ways to mobilize civilians to contribute to national security.


Experts stress that Western countries need to learn from the experiences of nordic and Baltic countries, such as Finland and Sweden, that continue to maintain robust reserve forces. According to researcher Alexandr Burilkov, improving European military capabilities could increase people's security and willingness to serve.

According to experts, while compulsory military service remains a controversial issue, European countries are facing pressure to improve their defense capabilities in the face of an increasingly aggressive Russia.

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