The planned reintroduction of mandatory military service in Serbia has once again been delayed, following statements by President Aleksandar Vučić, which critics claim reveal that the country is not prepared to implement the policy.
Mandatory Military Service Possibly Starting Late 2026 or 2027
According to Vučić, the first conscripts could enter military barracks in December 2026 or March 2027, significantly later than earlier government announcements.
Mandatory military service in Serbia was abolished on January 1, 2011, but discussions about its reintroduction have been ongoing since 2017. Over the years, Serbian officials repeatedly announced different starting dates, including 2024, early 2025, mid-2025, and September 2025, none of which materialized.
Government Admits Lack of Preparation
Vučić acknowledged that legal, organizational, and logistical preparations have not yet been completed. He stated that authorities still need to finalize infrastructure, including:
- Recruitment and registration centers
- Medical facilities
- Military accommodation upgrades
The Serbian president also confirmed that official registration of potential recruits is expected to begin around September or October 2026, indicating that the implementation process has not yet formally started.
Concerns About Military Capacity and Staffing
Reports suggest that the Serbian Armed Forces currently face staffing shortages, with some units operating at approximately 40% capacity. Although officials claim that sufficient equipment such as rifles and boots is available, critics argue that the military lacks the overall readiness to accommodate new recruits.
Public and Political Debate Intensifies
The proposal has sparked significant debate within Serbia, particularly regarding public support among younger citizens, which analysts believe remains relatively low. Critics have also raised questions about:
- Potential exemptions for children of political officials
- Equal distribution of military service responsibilities
- Social tensions among recruits with differing political or social backgrounds
Government Emphasizes Patriotism and Social Development
Vučić has defended the plan by stating that the goal of military service is to help young citizens develop responsibility, discipline, and patriotism, while also strengthening public understanding of the armed forces’ role in society.
Ongoing Political Criticism
Opponents of the government claim that repeated delays represent political messaging rather than a concrete reform strategy, arguing that the lack of legislation and public debate reflects insufficient planning.
The issue remains politically sensitive, as support for the military remains strong among older generations, while younger populations show mixed attitudes toward compulsory service.
Serbia has not yet finalized legislation or a detailed implementation timeline, leaving the future of mandatory military service uncertain.
