Urgent Recruitment for Participants in Upcoming National Service Phase
As of January 1, 2024, Latvia has reintroduced mandatory national military service for its citizens. This decision was made earlier this year, marking a significant change in the country's defence strategy.
On July 1, 2023, 254 young people began their mandatory service, with another group set to start in January 2024. Interestingly, only 224 volunteered for the second conscription, and if the required number of volunteer soldiers is not reached, the missing number will be provided by random selection on January 23, 2024.
The service is conducted within the Mechanized Infantry Brigade of the Ground Forces and takes place at the Ādaži military base. Volunteer soldiers receive a monthly compensation of 600 euros, while conscripted soldiers receive 300 euros. Upon completion of a year's service, volunteers receive an additional 1,100 euros.
It's worth noting that while completing national military service can provide volunteers with certain benefits, access to free university studies is not guaranteed. In Germany, for instance, institutions do not offer free studies solely based on completion of compulsory or voluntary military service. Instead, access depends primarily on meeting the university’s and the study program’s admission requirements.
However, in Latvia, volunteers who complete national military service can obtain free college-level professional higher education or bachelor's-degree level higher education at a state college or university.
For more information about national service, you can call the free information number 1827 or send an email to [email protected]. If you have additional questions, they are more than happy to help.
As of the first conscription of the State Defense Service, 488 Latvian citizens volunteered. The Ministry of Defense has decided not to carry out mandatory conscription at random for the second conscription.
This news marks a significant step in Latvia's defence strategy and is sure to impact the lives of many young citizens. It's essential to stay informed and make informed decisions about your future.
