The Croatian Parliament voted on Friday to reintroduce compulsory military service in order to strengthen the country’s defensive capabilities.
Zagreb had abolished mandatory military service in 2008, one year before joining NATO, opting instead for a professional army.
However, Croatian leaders emphasized that the current geopolitical situation requires the reinstatement of basic military training to bolster national defense.
Around 18,000 young people will be called up each year to undergo two months of training starting at age 18, beginning in early 2026.
A total of 84 deputies (out of 151 seats in parliament) approved the amendments to the Defense Act, while 110 lawmakers voted to amend the Law on Service in the Armed Forces.
