Serbia's government has approved the reintroduction of compulsory military service, ending a 14-year hiatus since its abolition. The move, praised by President Aleksandar Vucic as vital for enhancing Serbia’s defense capabilities, is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the country’s military readiness. A working group will be formed to initiate the reintroduction process, according to a government statement released on Friday.
Under the new plan, Serbian men will be required to undergo 60 days of military training, followed by 15 days of exercises. Military service will remain voluntary for women. Despite government support, some military experts have expressed skepticism, citing concerns about the high costs and questioning whether such a short training period will significantly boost the country's defense potential.
Serbia's armed forces, professionalized in 2011, have struggled with underfunding and inadequate equipment. While the country retains voluntary military service and reserve units, it has recently taken steps to modernize its military, including the signing of a landmark deal with France's Dassault Aviation to purchase 12 Rafale fighter jets, signaling a shift away from its traditional reliance on Russian military equipment.
President Vucic emphasized that the reinstatement of conscription is not intended as a threat to other nations but as a deterrent to any potential aggressors. The decision follows a similar move by neighboring Croatia, which announced the reintroduction of military conscription earlier this month, set to begin in January 2025.
The parallel moves by Serbia and Croatia, both former members of the Yugoslav federation, have raised concerns about a potential arms race in the region. Both countries are in the process of upgrading their military capabilities, with Croatia having already acquired several Rafale jets. Serbia, while maintaining its military neutrality, continues to develop its defense relationships through programs like NATO’s Partnership for Peace, which it joined in 2006.
