Compulsory military service in Croatia is returning after a break of almost 20 years, with around 800 individuals participating in the first batch of conscripts. This significant policy shift began on March 9, 2026, as the Croatian Armed Forces initiated training for these new recruits.

Of the 800 conscripts, more than half, specifically 446, volunteered for service, reflecting a notable interest in military careers among the population. Among these volunteers, 82 are women, who are not obligated to serve but have chosen to enlist.

The conscripts will undergo two months of basic military training, which will cover essential military skills and key military operations from Croatia’s War for Independence. This training aims to prepare the recruits for potential future roles within the Croatian Armed Forces.

Each year, up to 4,000 conscripts are expected to be called up for training, with the annual cost of basic military training estimated at about 23.7 million euros. Conscripts will receive a net monthly allowance of approximately 1,100 euros during their service.

Notably, only 10 conscripts declared a conscientious objection, opting for civilian service instead of military training. This indicates a relatively low level of dissent regarding the reinstatement of compulsory service.

Ivan Anusic, a key figure in the Croatian military, expressed hope that some of the conscripts would consider a career in the Croatian Army after completing their training. He stated, “Today, we are ending but also starting a major project that has been in preparation for a year-and-a-half.”

Compulsory military service was previously abolished in Croatia in 2007, marking a shift towards a professional military force. The return of conscription reflects changing security needs and a renewed emphasis on national defense.

As the training progresses, observers will be watching closely to see how this initiative impacts military readiness and public perception of the armed forces in Croatia.

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