Balkan nations discuss military service: France plans voluntary service; Croatia reinstates mandatory service; Serbia considers it; Greece and Turkey maintain it.
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France has announced a new, voluntary military service starting in the summer of 2026, lasting 10 months and restricted to national territory. In the Balkans, military service status varies: Croatia has voted to reinstate mandatory basic military training, while Greece and Turkey have maintained mandatory service. Serbia is considering reintroducing mandatory service, with the first recruits expected in 2026.
In Croatia, the mandatory service was reinstated by the Parliament, requiring an annual cost of about 23.7 million euros. The first recruits are expected in early 2026. The system allows for conscientious objection, which would result in 3 or 4 months of civil service.
Serbia is also moving to reintroduce mandatory service, with the first cohort expected in 2026, lasting 75 days for those aged 19 to 27, and voluntary for women. Preparations are underway, with plans for 20,000 recruits annually.
Greece maintains mandatory military service for men aged 18 to 45 due to geopolitical tensions with Turkey. While the government is reforming the system, increasing pay and tightening exemptions, the opposition fears increased pressure on young people.
Turkey mandates military service for all men between 20 and 41. The service duration varies based on education level. Additionally, a paid option exists, allowing individuals to pay a fee to complete a short basic training, which has become a significant source of state revenue. Notably, Turkey does not recognize conscientious objection, and refusal can lead to fines or imprisonment.
