In the context of the war in Ukraine and criticisms from Donald Trump towards NATO allies, several European states have taken measures to strengthen their own security and defense capabilities.
One of the key elements of a country’s defense is its army, increasingly supported in Europe by conscripted reservists. Currently, conscription measures vary considerably within the EU.
At least ten member states, including Austria, Cyprus, Denmark, and Estonia, have implemented a conscription system.
Among these countries, Austria, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Latvia, and Lithuania only make it mandatory for men, while Denmark and Sweden make it mandatory for both men and women.
In these countries, conscription can last up to 15 months, with Croatia having the shortest service period at two months.
On the other hand, other EU countries have voluntary military service, but the application procedures vary.
For example, 18-year-old German men living in Germany are required to register and fill out a questionnaire indicating their preference for full enrollment.
What are the latest changes in Europe?
Approximately 800 Croats showed up for mandatory military service at the beginning of March this year.
The Croatian parliament voted to reintroduce mandatory military service last October, after it was suspended in 2008 when the country shifted to a voluntary system.
The program offers benefits such as a monthly allowance of 1,100 euros, a credit for working hours (time spent in service counts towards overall work experience), and preferential access to public sector employment.
In Germany, since the beginning of 2026, German men aged 17 to 45 must request permission for trips abroad exceeding three months, even though this authorization is generally considered a formality.
This requirement is part of the military service modernization law, extending in peacetime a restriction previously limited to states of tension or defense.
Recruitment and Retention
Military personnel decreased by an average of 16% between 2010 and 2020, according to the latest figures from EUROMIL (European Organization of Military Associations and Unions).
Belgium and Germany experienced the largest declines, at 26.5% and 25% respectively.
Conversely, Hungary and Sweden saw the highest increases, both at 25%.
According to EUROMIL, low wages, work-life balance, and negative work environment are among the main reasons affecting retention rates in each country’s armed forces.
For women in the military, there are additional obstacles.
Although female soldiers are less likely to face drug problems or have a criminal record than their male counterparts, they encounter issues ranging from sexual assault and harassment to the lack of a female uniform.
