The war in Ukraine has given rise to a debate in many European countries about the reintroduction of military conscription. For example, the Bundeswehr Reservist Association believes that the return of compulsory military service is inevitable, otherwise Germany would be “unable to defend itself”. Croatia is apparently already one step further. According to a media report, the government in Zagreb plans to introduce “compulsory basic military training.”
“The decision has been made,” headlined the daily “Jutarnji List” two days ago, referring to discussions of the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff on compulsory military service, which is not officially called that, especially since Prime Minister Andrej Plenković was only recently returned.
Training locations and duration
However, the basic training, which is intended for all young men aged 18 and over, will reportedly only last three months. The young recruits must achieve a certain level of physical fitness, learn how to use infantry weapons and learn important military basics. The barracks in Požega, Sinj, Pula and Bjelovar are mentioned as training locations.
According to the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff, three months of training is “completely sufficient”, the report said. Of the approximately 17,000 young men, about 15,000 are likely to actually enter the recruiting pool. The others are considered unsuitable.
Parliament still has to agree to it
The plans still have to be approved by the government and then submitted to parliament for a vote. If everything goes according to plan, the first cohorts can start ‘basic military training’ in 2025.
Source: Krone
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