Mandatory Military Training Returns to Croatia After 17-Year Hiatus

Strategic Insights -

The Croatian Parliament is set to discuss draft amendments to the Defence Act and the Armed Forces Service Act, introducing mandatory basic military training for 18-year-old men, with the training scheduled to begin in January next year. The basic training will last two months and trainees will receive a monthly allowance of €1,100. The training period will count towards pensionable service, and those performing civil service will receive a smaller allowance, to be defined by regulation.

Key Takeaways:

  • Mandatory basic military training will be reintroduced in Croatia after a 17-year hiatus, with all 18-year-old men required to undergo two months of training.
  • Trainees will receive a monthly allowance of €1,100 and the training period will count towards pensionable service.
  • Those performing civil service will receive a smaller monthly allowance, to be defined by regulation.
  • Recruits will undergo a medical examination to determine their fitness, with around 100 doctors nominated to conduct the examinations.
  • Exceptions will be made for recruits aged over 19 and up to 30, who may be called up for military training if they are pursuing higher education or participating in international competitions.
  • Women are not subject to conscription but may voluntarily take part in the training.
  • Individuals who object to military duties due to religious or moral reasons will complete three months of basic training within the Civil Protection Service or four months within local government units.
  • Failure to report for service will result in an order being issued to the police and a penalty will be imposed.
  • Health Minister Irena Hrstic will release a regulation governing the medical examination process for public consultation.

Statistics:

  • 100 doctors have been nominated to conduct medical examinations for recruits.
  • €1,100 monthly allowance will be paid to trainees during the two-month training period.
  • Three months of basic training within the Civil Protection Service (or four months within local government units) will be completed by individuals exempt from military duties.
  • Up to 30-year-olds may be called up for military training if they are pursuing higher education or participating in international competitions.

Sources:

  • Hina, ZAGREB, 21 Oct (Hina)
  • Hina, Health Minister Irena Hrstic announced on Tuesday that around 100 doctors have been nominated to conduct medical examinations for recruits.