A limited form of military service is set to be reintroduced in France, marking a significant shift in national defense policy more than 25 years after the conscription was phased out. This decision comes in light of escalating concerns about potential confrontations with Russia, prompting French President Emmanuel Macron to announce the plan during a speech at an infantry base near Grenoble, located in the southeast of the country.
The reintroduced military service will allow young men and women to volunteer for a paid 10-month military training program. President Macron emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating, "The only way to avoid danger is to prepare for it." The initiative aims to mobilize the nation for self-defense, ensuring that France remains respected on the global stage.
Starting from next summer, the new national service will primarily target 18- and 19-year-olds, offering them a monthly stipend of at least €800 (£700). In his address, Macron highlighted the necessity of having motivated young individuals in the armed forces, framing the initiative as an act of trust in the nation’s youth. Initially, the program will be limited to 3,000 volunteers in its first year, with plans to expand to 50,000 by 2035.
This shift aligns France with several other European nations that have initiated military service schemes in response to rising fears of Russian aggression. Countries like Belgium and the Netherlands have adopted voluntary military programs, while Germany is also considering similar measures. Recently, the Belgian defense ministry reached out to 17-year-olds, inviting them to volunteer for a monthly pay of approximately €2,000 (£1,750).
In Eastern Europe, nations such as Lithuania and Latvia have established compulsory military service systems, often selecting cadets through a lottery. Sweden, which recently joined NATO, has introduced a military service program lasting between nine to fifteen months based on merit. Notably, countries like Finland and Greece have maintained military service, while Switzerland is set to vote on transitioning from mandatory military service for men to compulsory civic duty for all citizens.
French military leaders largely support the new measure, anticipating that it will create a reservoir of trained personnel to supplement professional soldiers and fill non-combat roles. Thomas Gassilloud, president of the National Assembly's defense committee, commented on the need to move towards a hybrid military force, stating, "We went too far in the direction of the all-professional."
The backdrop of this announcement is a growing narrative surrounding a potential standoff with Russia. The French government has consistently raised awareness regarding covert incidents and efforts by Moscow to influence public opinion through social media. Recently, Chief-of-Staff Gen Fabien Mandon stated that French military strategies are based on the premise of a confrontation with Russia in the near future. His comments, which suggested a need for the nation to prepare for potential casualties, faced backlash from both the far-left and parts of the far-right.
Despite some controversy, public sentiments towards the voluntary military service are largely positive. A recent Elabe survey indicated that 73% of respondents support the initiative, with even a 60% majority among young individuals aged 25-34. In informal polling conducted on the streets of Paris, opinions varied, with many young people recognizing the potential benefits of military service in strengthening the army and fostering national pride.
However, not all views are in favor. Some young individuals expressed concerns that the government should focus more on pressing issues like mental health and financial stability rather than military service. This reflects a broader debate on the priorities facing France's youth.
The decision to reintroduce military service marks a stark contrast to the era following President Jacques Chirac's 1996 decision to end conscription. Military service had been a longstanding tradition in France since the French Revolution, with the concept of the citizen-soldier deeply embedded in national identity. The last conflict involving conscripts was the Algerian war of independence, resulting in significant casualties.
Although military service was officially abolished in 2001, various attempts have been made to maintain the spirit of national service, including the Day of Defence and Citizenship for high-school students and a previously established Universal National Service. However, the latter was criticized and ultimately discontinued earlier this year.
As the new military service program prepares for implementation, questions about its funding arise amid a looming debt crisis and ongoing discussions in parliament regarding the 2026 budget. The success of this initiative will depend on how well it resonates with the younger generation and its ability to adapt to the changing security landscape in Europe.