In a significant strategic shift, France is set to reintroduce a form of national military service for its young people, driven by growing security concerns in Europe.
A Voluntary Model for a New Era
French President Emmanuel Macron is leading the initiative, which explicitly rules out a return to the conscription model abolished in 1996. Instead, the government will offer a voluntary military service option aimed at engaging French youth and bolstering the nation's armed forces. This new plan is a direct response to the escalating perception of Russia's threat to European stability, a concern that extends beyond the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Substantial Financial Commitment
Backing this new service model is a major financial pledge. The French government plans to inject an additional €6.5 billion into defence over the coming two years. This spending surge is part of a broader ambition to reach an annual defence budget of €64 billion by 2027, signalling a profound commitment to national and continental security.
A Wider European Trend
France is not alone in its reassessment of military readiness. This move aligns with a broader trend across the continent, where nations are urgently enhancing their military capabilities. Germany, Belgium, and Poland are among the other European powers also taking steps to strengthen their armed forces and reserve personnel. This collective action underscores a unified European stance on reinforcing defence and deterrence in an increasingly volatile geopolitical landscape.
