Compulsory military service returns
Compulsory military service in Croatia is returning after a break of almost 20 years, with around 800 people in the first batch of conscripts beginning their training on March 9, 2026. This move marks a significant shift in Croatia’s defense policy.
Of the 800 conscripts, more than half, specifically 446, volunteered for service. Notably, one in ten conscripts are women, who are under no obligation to serve, with 82 women choosing to participate voluntarily.
The conscripts will undergo two months of basic military training, which will cover essential military skills and key military operations from Croatia’s War for Independence. Each year, up to 4,000 conscripts are expected to be called up for training, reflecting a renewed commitment to national defense.
Conscripts will receive a net monthly allowance of about 1,100 euros, while the annual cost of basic military training is estimated at approximately 23.7 million euros. This financial investment underscores the government’s intention to enhance military readiness.
Only 10 conscripts declared a conscientious objection, opting to carry out civilian service instead of military training. This indicates a relatively low level of dissent regarding the reinstatement of conscription.
Ivan Anusic, the Croatian Minister of Defense, expressed optimism about the program, stating, “I hope that some of the conscripts will decide on a career in the Croatian Army after completing their military training.” He added, “Today, we are ending but also starting a major project that has been in preparation for a year-and-a-half.”
Compulsory military service in Croatia was abolished in 2007, and its reinstatement reflects changing security dynamics in the region. Observers note that this decision may be influenced by various geopolitical factors, including regional stability and defense cooperation.
As the first group of conscripts embarks on their training journey, the Croatian Armed Forces are poised to adapt to this new era of military service. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the long-term implications of this policy shift.