Facing the geopolitical risks brought by Russian aggression, many European countries are increasingly focusing on strengthening their defense capabilities. French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Thursday the establishment of a new youth volunteer service system to address the “accelerating threats” on the global stage.
Speaking at an infantry base in the French Alps, Macron stated, “The only way to avoid danger is to be prepared for it.” He highlighted that this measure was inspired by European partners and aligns with a “mixed military model” that combines young volunteer soldiers, reserve personnel, and active-duty military.
The new French youth volunteer service system is open to young people aged 18 to 19, with a 10-month service period and a minimum monthly compensation of 800 euros. The program is expected to kick off in mid-2026, initially recruiting 3,000 individuals with a target of reaching 50,000 participants by 2035, with a total estimated cost of 2 billion euros.
Macron emphasized that France will not reintroduce the compulsory conscription system abolished in 1996. Instead, it will establish a three-tier military structure comprising professional soldiers, reserve personnel, and young volunteer soldiers. France aims to increase the total number of reserve personnel from the current approximate 47,000 to 100,000 by 2030. This expansion target will be achieved through recruiting retired soldiers and attracting young volunteer soldiers who have completed their 10-month service.
France’s decision marks a tightening of defense strategies among European countries after enjoying decades of peace. Macron noted that this unity allows France to align with other countries taking similar actions out of concerns over Russian aggression.
Countries like Germany and Denmark have initiated similar projects, while Belgium and the Netherlands have introduced voluntary military service.
Lithuania and Latvia enforce mandatory conscription, whereas Sweden, a new NATO member, implements a selective conscription system.
Meanwhile, countries like Finland and Greece have never ceased their conscription system.
Before Macron’s announcement, General Fabien Mandon, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, stated last week that France’s military planning should be based on the assumption of a conflict with Russia within the next three to four years. He urged the public to be prepared to “accept the loss of their children.”
Public opinion polls indicate that over 73% of the majority support voluntary military service. Supporters view this as a “trust in young people,” contributing to national unity and the expansion of defense capabilities.
(This article referenced reports from Reuters and the BBC)