Croatia reintroduces mandatory military service after 17 years

Next Monday, 800 recruits will begin a two-month basic military training program in Croatia, marking the reintroduction of mandatory military service after 17 years. This measure is part of a broader strategy by Croatia to address security issues in Europe and the Western Balkans, in the context of tensions with Russia. Although initially controversial, more than half of the first recruits are volunteers, including 10% women. Only ten of those called have cited conscientious objections, the lowest proportion in Europe.

The Croatian government plans to recruit 4,000 young people annually starting in 2026. The training program will include survival skills, self-defense, first aid, and drone operation, offering incentives such as a monthly salary of 1,100 euros and recognition of work seniority. Croatia thus becomes the tenth NATO country to reintroduce mandatory military service.