10 Countries With Compulsory Military Service

Zee Media Bureau
May 16, 2023

Israel

Both males and women are required to serve in the military in Israel. Citizens must enlist in the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) and serve for two to three years. Due to Israel's security difficulties, the compulsory military service is viewed as a crucial component of the country's defence.

South Korea

Male nationals of South Korea must serve in the military by law. According to the military branch, the service commitment ranges from 18 to 21 months.

Sweden

Men and women in Sweden are still required to serve in the military. Depending on the conditions of each person, the service time may vary from 7 to 12 months. In order to maintain its national defence capabilities and participate in global peacekeeping missions, Sweden has a conscription system.

Norway

Norway recently added women to the list of those who must serve in the military, in addition to men. Both gender serve for around a year. Conscription of women attempts to advance both gender equality and defence readiness.

Switzerland

All physically capable male citizens of Switzerland are required to serve in the military by tradition. The time commitment varies, but it normally lasts between 18 and 21 weeks. A sizable reserve of well-trained soldiers is always available thanks to the Swiss militia system.

Greece

All male citizens of Greece are required to complete a nine-month military service requirement. Greek military forces must enlist in order to complete their NATO obligations and maintain a strong defence force.

Eritrea

Both men and women in Eritrea are required to serve in the military. Conscripts frequently serve for several years during the duty, which was initially only supposed to last 18 months.

Iran

All males above the age of 18 must serve in the military during their time in Iran. The length of the contract is about 21 months.

Austria

All male citizens of Austria must serve in the military. The term of service is six months. Conscription guarantees a reserve force for the country's defence even when there are other options for civilian service.

Singapore

All male citizens and permanent residents of Singapore must serve in the military. Depending on the degree of education, the service time ranges from 24 to 27 months

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