Croatia’s Armed Forces have begun issuing official summonses to young men as the country reintroduces mandatory military service after nearly two decades, marking a major shift in defense policy. Chief of the General Staff Tihomir Kundid announced that more than 700 invitations for basic military training have been sent out so far, with seven young people formally filing conscientious objection applications, indicating that they do not wish to serve.
The renewed system, officially termed “basic military training,” represents the return of compulsory service following its suspension in 2008. Under recent amendments passed by the Croatian Parliament in October 2025, young male citizens are required to complete eight weeks of intensive military training, designed to gradually introduce participants to military life and equip them with core infantry skills. First recruits are expected to enter barracks in Knin, Slunj and Požega in March 2026, with training planned to last two months and be included on their employment records.
The Croatian government frames this move as necessary to strengthen national defence amidst changing security dynamics in Europe, including concerns raised by the war in Ukraine and broader regional instability. Parliament’s vote to reintroduce obligatory military training saw a majority in favour, and officials emphasise that the programme will also help young people gain practical experience and discipline.
General Kundid stressed that all participants will be equipped with new Croatian-made VHS assault rifles and that the training regimen is structured to avoid major disruption to young recruits’ life plans while offering them valuable skills. The military has also emphasised that there are legal avenues to postpone or avoid service, including conscientious objection, which allows alternatives such as civil protection or local community service — though only a small number of objections have been filed so far.
Conscription under the new system generally applies to male Croatian citizens up to 27 years of age — or up to 30 with approved deferments — and women may join voluntarily. Those called for training will receive compensation, lodging, and food during the service period. The reintroduction of mandatory military service represents a significant policy shift for Croatia as it addresses emerging security priorities and aims to bolster its reserve forces.
