Croatia’s parliament approved a law restoring compulsory military service starting in 2026, establishing a two‑month paid training program for men aged 20 to 30.
Croatia Restores Mandatory Military Service
The Zagreb parliament passed a law that will reintroduce universal compulsory military service in 2026. Conscripts will undergo two months of training, receiving a monthly salary of 1,100 euros. The draft is targeted at men between 20 and 30 years old, with an annual enrolment planned for around 4,000 individuals. Women are exempt from the requirement but may volunteer to join the training.
Training Programme for Conscripts in Croatia
Experts warned that the training plan must reflect contemporary realities. The defence ministry states conscripts will learn to operate combat drones and undergo courses on cyber‑security reconnaissance and defence. The law also includes a conscience clause that allows conscientious objection, and a slightly longer service option in civil defence or local governance institutions.
Croatian Defence Minister Highlights Broader Political Consensus
Defence Minister Ivan Anušić noted that the law passed with a broad majority, indicating a wider political consensus on mandatory service. He thanked those who supported the measure and emphasized the necessity of basic military skills amid changing security conditions and increasing natural disasters. Anušić added that young people should be able to protect themselves, their communities, and, in times of threat, their homeland.
