The French government has announced plans to reintroduce a voluntary 10-month military service for young people, citing growing security threats from Russia and heightened instability in Europe.
President Emmanuel Macron revealed the program on November 27, 2025, during a speech at the 27th Mountain Infantry Brigade base in the French Alps. The initiative targets 18- and 19-year-olds, who will serve one month of basic training followed by nine months in the armed forces. Participants can serve within France or in overseas territories but will not be deployed to active war zones.
The pilot program is expected to start in mid-2026 with 3,000 volunteers, with plans to scale up to 10,000 annually by 2030 and potentially 50,000 per year by 2035, depending on national security needs.
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Macron stressed that the program is voluntary, not a return to compulsory conscription, and aims to strengthen France’s national defense while fostering a sense of civic responsibility among young citizens.
Officials cited the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and rising tensions in Europe as key reasons for the move. Analysts say it is part of France’s strategy to ensure a stronger, more prepared military in uncertain times.
The announcement has drawn attention across Europe and beyond, as nations monitor France’s efforts to bolster its armed forces amid growing global security concerns.
