The Stream

Should militaries count on conscription?

How young recruits from around the world are responding to mandatory military service.

Should military service be mandatory? Security concerns are pressuring some nations to build their armies, but for young people who aren’t planning on a military career, conscription could have a major impact on their lives. Supporters of compulsory service say the practice is necessary to protect national interests. How is conscription affecting young people around the world? Join the conversation at 1930GMT.

On today’s episode, we speak to:

Kipras Tamasauskas
Lithuanian conscript

Onur Erem @onurerem
Journalist, Conscientious Objection Association in Turkey

Sahar Vardi @SaharMvardi
Anti-military activist in Israel

Graham Ong-Webb @grahamongwebb
Senior Combat Officer, Singapore Armed Forces
 

 

If drafted, would you fulfill your military duty?

 

What do you think? Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.