A new poll conducted by Wirtualna Polska on 21–23 December 2025 found that 59.4% of Polish respondents support restoring compulsory military service.
Context: Rising Calls for Mandatory Service in Europe
Across Europe, the idea of reinstating compulsory military service has gained traction amid growing insecurity, prompting Wirtualna Polska to commission a poll on the topic among Polish citizens.
Overall Poll Findings
59.4% of respondents support reinstating compulsory service, with 14.7% saying “strongly” and 44.7% “rather” in favor. Conversely, 30.9% oppose it, 15.2% saying “rather no” and 15.7% “definitely no,” while 9.7% remain undecided.
Government Coalition Voter Breakdown
Among voters of the ruling coalition, 50% back reintroduction, 12% “strongly” and 38% “rather” pro‑service. Opposition stands at 41%, with 24% “rather no” and 17% “definitely no.”
PiS and Confederation Support
Support peaks among PiS and Confederation sympathizers at 67%, with 15% “strongly” support and 52% “rather” pro‑service. Opposition is 26%, while 7% are undecided.
Undecided Voters Lean Toward Service
Among indecisive respondents, 60% favor compulsory service—20% “strongly” and 40% “rather”—while 23% oppose and 17% remain hesitant.
German Parliamentary Reform and Student Strikes
On 5 December, the German Bundestag passed a reform keeping the military voluntary, but requiring all 18‑year‑old men to undergo a medical exam and complete a motivation questionnaire. If recruitment numbers are insufficient, the law allows a future mandate of compulsory service. In response, students in 90 German cities called for school strikes against the new policy.
Regional Implications: Lithuania’s Reinstatement
Lithuania reinstated compulsory military service in 2015, following a nine‑month nationwide trial, and aims to increase its armed forces to 270,000 by 2035.
