Croatian parliament votes in return of mandatory military training

(Photo: MORH/ F. Klen)

Croatia will reintroduce basic military training for young citizens after the Croatian Parliament on 24 October 2025 passed amendments to the Defence Act and the Armed Forces Service Act.

Seventeen years after abolishing compulsory military service, Croatia is reinstating a modernised training programme in response to changing security conditions, natural disasters, and global crises, aligning itself with European trends in defence readiness.

The Ministry of Defence will now adopt regulations to put the new system into practice. The goal is to equip young people with fundamental military and crisis-response skills, helping them contribute to national security and form part of Croatia’s reserve forces.

Around 4,000 recruits per year are expected to take part, divided into five groups. The programme will combine modern technology and contemporary training standards to meet the demands of today’s security environment.

Who will be called up?

The first to be called will be male conscripts born in 2007, who will receive invitations for medical examinations by December 2025.

Men aged 19 to 30 may also be included under certain legal conditions, and both men and women may apply voluntarily.

Medical checks will be arranged close to each participant’s place of residence, making the process as straightforward as possible. After assessment, candidates may be:

• Declared fit and assigned to training,

• Granted a postponement until the age of 29, or

• Released from the obligation if medically unfit.

Those citing conscientious objection will have the option of performing civil service instead.

Where and what will they learn?

The first group of recruits will begin training in early 2026 at barracks in Knin, Slunj and Požega.
The two-month programme will cover:

• Handling personal weapons and modern military equipment, including drones,

• First aid and self-defence,

• Fundamentals of military organisation and tactics,

• Lessons on key operations from the Homeland War.

Training will combine individual and team exercises, promoting cooperation, responsibility, and discipline. It will be led by experienced Croatian Armed Forces instructors who have long been involved in voluntary military training.

During training, recruits will receive a monthly allowance of around €1,100 (net) and will have two months of work experience recognised.

For those already employed, employment rights are protected – their job position and salary are secured for the duration of training.

Participants also receive paid transport and leave, and gain priority in public sector employment under equal conditions.

The Ministry of Defence estimates the programme will cost approximately €23.7 million annually.

After completing basic training, participants may apply for professional military service and pursue a career within the Croatian Armed Forces. Those who do not will join the reserve component as classified reservists.

The Armed Forces offer a wide range of career paths – from operational and technical roles to communication, healthcare, and security fields – giving recruits the opportunity to develop professionally while contributing to Croatia’s defence and resilience.