“Rather than spending time in the army, young individuals will continue working, whether they are employed or engaged in other productive activities,” stated Montenegrin President Filip Vujanovic in August 2006 when he announced the abolition of mandatory military service.

Now, eighteen years later, Montenegro is considering the reintroduction of a mandatory military service requirement.

Defense Minister Dragan Krapović is supportive of this potential decision.

The Ministry of Defense has not ruled out exploring this option further. In a statement to Radio Free Europe (RSE), they emphasized that any future decision should stem from “a wide consensus and analysis of potential consequences.”

This topic has gained traction following announcements from Croatia and Serbia regarding their plans to reinstate mandatory military service starting next year.

Military analyst Aleksandar Radić suggests that Montenegro should “align” its policy with that of other regional nations.

“Currently, there are no options left. Montenegro finds itself in a position where it has to react; it is better to act in a timely manner than to be reactive,” he told RSE.

About a third of NATO countries have a mandatory term

Montenegro abolished military service in 2006, the same year it gained independence through a referendum.

Eleven years later, it joined NATO.

The decision to revert to compulsory military service lies with Member States—specifically, Podgorica in this case—with one Alliance official noting to RSE that they are aware of this possibility.

“Approximately one-third of NATO members have some form of mandatory military service, and some allies are considering reinstating it as well.”

He also added that NATO does not mandate compulsory military service.

“The methods of recruiting and retaining military personnel are determined by individual nations. It is essential that allies maintain capable armed forces to safeguard our territory and population.”

In this context, he acknowledged Montenegro’s ongoing contributions to collective Euro-Atlantic security.

Croatia and Serbia follow each other

In Croatia, effective January, two months of military service will be required, a shift from the current voluntary basis.

Serbia, which maintains a policy of military neutrality, has decided that voluntary service will be replaced with mandatory service, set to start in September and last 75 days.

Aleksandar Radić notes the synchronized timing of decisions in Croatia and Serbia suggests that these nations are “mirroring each other.”

“If one nation takes measures to strengthen its military, the other will follow suit.”

He also pointed out that both countries are modernizing their military capabilities, having purchased French Rafale fighter jets.

“It’s clear they are keeping pace with each other regarding military service decisions.”

Additionally, Kosovo has indicated a willingness to introduce mandatory military service.

“There is significant political support for this, largely driven by nationalist sentiments and the perception of the Serbian factor as a threat. This creates a favorable public reception for such an initiative.”

Radić also mentioned that Montenegro will likely discuss the topic of mandatory military service in the context of Northern Macedonia.

“It’s likely that, step by step, Macedonia will also face the decision to implement mandatory military service.”

He highlights that Bosnia and Herzegovina presents a unique case due to the complex relations between its entities, the Federation and Republika Srpska.

Radić argues that reinstating military service in BiH would complicate matters further, as “such a move might be interpreted as a potential catalyst for interethnic conflict within the intricate framework of the three constitutive peoples and the Dayton Agreement.”

“I believe that military service will remain a sensitive topic,” Radić concluded.

Dilemmas faced by official Podgorica

Since the abolition of compulsory service five years ago, Montenegro has opened the option for voluntary service lasting three months, allowing for potential employment in the Armed Forces, which consists of approximately 2,400 members.

The shift to mandatory military service is a multifaceted issue, according to statements from the Ministry of Defense to RSE.

“It necessitates a thorough analysis of all aspects, including potential economic costs, effects on the education and employment of youth, along with the ethical and moral considerations of the populace.”

They emphasize the importance of public consultations that involve representation from youth, professionals, NGOs, and other relevant stakeholders.

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Montenegro plays a crucial role in these deliberations, being the main military body responsible for the implementation of such policies.

As stated by the Ministry, they would compile arguments to inform the final political decision.

Moreover, in Montenegro, the President commands the Defense and Security Council’s decisions, which also include input from the Prime Minister and the Assembly.