France is set to reintroduce a limited form of military service for young people, addressing security concerns amid rising tensions with Russia. This change comes more than 25 years after conscription was abolished. Starting next summer, 18- and 19-year-olds will have the option to volunteer for 10 months of paid military training, earning at least €800 per month.
President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the importance of preparation for potential dangers, stating, “The only way to avoid danger is to prepare for it.” He sees this move as a way to mobilize the nation for self-defense. The program will gradually expand, starting with 3,000 volunteers next year, with a goal of reaching 50,000 by 2035.
This initiative aligns France with other European nations like Belgium and Germany, which have also introduced voluntary military programs in response to similar concerns. In Belgium, for instance, the government recently invited 17-year-olds to join for a monthly stipend of €2,000.
The French military hopes that this new volunteer force will not only supplement professional soldiers but also encourage many participants to pursue long-term military careers. Thomas Gassilloud, president of the National Assembly’s defense committee, remarked that the plan represents a shift toward a more hybrid military structure.
Recent polls indicate strong public support for the program, with 73% of respondents backing it, according to an Elabe survey. Young people express varied opinions, with some seeing it as an opportunity to foster national pride and camaraderie, while others think the government should focus on pressing issues like mental health and financial stability.
This discussion around preparing youths for military service is not new in France. Conscription has been part of French history since the French Revolution, where the concept of the citizen-soldier was born. Past military conflicts, particularly in Algeria, highlighted the sacrifices made by conscripts, leaving a lasting impact on national consciousness.
Military leaders today believe that the changing global landscape necessitates a renewed commitment to defense. Gen. Fabien Mandon, the newly appointed chief of staff, recently suggested that military planning is centered around the possibility of confrontation with Russia in the coming years.
However, while there’s optimism regarding enhancing national defense, the program faces challenges. Questions linger about funding, especially given France’s looming debt crisis and ongoing budget discussions in the parliament.
In historical context, the end of mandatory military service in 1996 marked a significant shift in France’s approach to defense. As the geopolitical landscape evolves, this new initiative aims to ensure that the spirit of service remains alive in the nation, promoting unity and resilience against external threats.
For more detailed perspectives on the current global defense climate and France’s response, you can visit [BBC News](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4gpkerdn9qo) for further insights.
