As European nations face stretched armed forces and constrained defence budgets, some countries are exploring the option of reinstating compulsory military service as a means to bolster their troops. NATO allies are considering conscription to address the alliance’s defence shortcomings.
The idea is not new, as several European countries have already implemented mandatory military service or selective conscription systems. However, others have opted out due to various reasons, including legal and political obstacles.
Researchers argue that with Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine and concerns over potential attacks on NATO members, Europe needs more troops to defend itself. A study by the Bruegel think-tank and the Kiel Institute estimates that an additional 300,000 troops are required, on top of the current 1.47 million active personnel.
“NATO allies are discussing how to generate these forces,” said a NATO official. “How to utilize conscription systems, reserve forces or other models is a sovereign national decision taken by allies.”
Some countries, such as Latvia and Lithuania, have already implemented conscription models to expand their armed forces. Others, like Croatia, plan to reintroduce compulsory military service this year.
However, not everyone agrees that reinstating conscription is the solution. Researchers argue that there are other issues that countries can address before considering mandatory military service, such as improving training infrastructure and increasing public willingness to defend their countries.
A recent Gallup poll found that only 32% of EU citizens would be willing to defend their country in the event of war. In major EU economies, the numbers were even lower, ranging from 14% to 29%.
As Europe’s defence landscape continues to evolve, NATO allies will need to weigh the pros and cons of reinstating compulsory military service or exploring alternative solutions to address the alliance’s growing defence shortcomings.
Source: https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/03/11/could-europe-conscript-300000-troops-needed-to-deter-russia-without-us