Croatia is bringing back military conscription! Starting January 2025, around 5,000 young people annually will be called up for a two-month intensive military training. Prime Minister Plenković says that young generations have missed out on these skills for decades, and it’s time to change that.
Women are not obliged to serve but can volunteer. Those who ignore the call can expect police intervention and a fine of 10,000 kuna (about 1,300 euros).
Training will take place at three barracks: Knin, Slunj, and Požega. Recruits will receive a net salary of 3,000 kuna per month, plus paid food and transport. The service will count as work experience, and employers cannot fire employees for attending training.
For conscientious objectors, there is a civil service option lasting 3 to 4 months, with a monthly allowance of about 1,000 kuna and health insurance rights.
The law also allows professional military service for those with only basic education, and the state will co-finance mortgage interest for professional soldiers under 45 who do not have housing.
All this is part of Croatia’s new defense strategy until 2035, aiming to strengthen the armed forces and increase the defense budget.
So get ready, Croatian youth — military conscription is back! Will you serve your country or try to dodge it? Or maybe civil service sounds better? Share your thoughts, maybe together we can figure out how to survive this military marathon!
