Austria extends mandatory military service to combat personnel shortage

Austria's government has agreed to reform mandatory military service, extending conscription and reintroducing militia exercises to address a critical personnel shortage in its armed forces. The decision comes after lengthy negotiations among the ruling coalition parties, narrowly avoiding public embarrassment at a government meeting held at the country's largest barracks.

The reform will increase the basic military service from six months to a total of three months of mandatory training per year, including regular militia exercises that were abandoned two decades ago in an era of perceived lasting peace. This move is seen as essential to bolster Austria's defense capabilities, as the current system is insufficient for a nationwide deployment. The monthly pay for conscripts will also rise from 625 euros to 1,000 euros.

Experts and a government commission have widely acknowledged that abolishing militia exercises in 2006 was a mistake, leading to Austria having the shortest regular conscription period in Europe and a severe lack of personnel. The country is also increasing its defense spending significantly, aiming to reach 2% of its economic output by 2032, up from the current 1%. Chancellor Christian Stocker emphasized that increased spending is ineffective without sufficient training time for soldiers on new weapon systems.

The expert commission had recommended an eight-month basic service period supplemented by two months of militia exercises. While the final compromise differs slightly, the core aim is to enhance Austria's defense readiness in response to a changed geopolitical landscape. The reforms are set to take effect next year.