Two major European powers, France and Germany, are working on military service reforms to bolster their military in the face of growing threats from Russia.
According to Le Figaro, French President Macron may announce on November 27 the introduction of a 10-month voluntary military service, aiming to recruit 10,000 to 50,000 men a year. The service would be paid for.
The German government has approved a reform of the service, which will remain voluntary but introduce mandatory medical examinations for 18-year-old citizens. If there are not enough volunteers, the Bundestag could introduce “military conscription of necessity” by drawing lots. The reform will be voted on in December.
