Serbia announces voluntary military service call and future conscription plans

The Serbian Ministry of Defence has issued a public call for voluntary military service for the December 2026 recruitment period. Candidates for voluntary service with arms can be male or female citizens of the Republic of Serbia aged 19 to 30. Applicants must be medically fit, have no criminal record, and must not have previously completed military service.

Additionally, the Ministry is accepting applications for professional training for reserve officers. Candidates for this role must hold an undergraduate or professional degree relevant to the Serbian Armed Forces, pass security checks, and meet specific requirements for special units.

In a separate context regarding national policy, President Aleksandar Vučić has announced plans to reintroduce mandatory military service starting in March 2027, with a proposed duration of 75 days. Under current laws, exemptions from military service are granted to those deemed medically unfit, certain dual citizens who have fulfilled obligations in other countries, and individuals who have attained professional military status or completed specific training within the Ministry of Internal Affairs.