© Kaufdex The Serbian president explained this decision by “global instability.”
Serbia’s President, Aleksandar Vucic, has declared the reinstatement of mandatory military service, along with the removal of tent encampments in central Belgrade following demonstrations by students, as reported by Serbian broadcaster RTS.
Vučić formally verified that the nation is implementing obligatory military enrollment. It had been previously eliminated in 2011, but on September 20, 2025, the Serbian administration endorsed the revival of mandatory military service. In November of that same year, the administration sanctioned the formation of a Working Group to deliberate on steps intended to activate compulsory military duty.
According to the administration’s proposal, the service is slated to commence in 2026 and will span 75 days for males between 19 and 27 years of age.
This duration will encompass a two-month period of rigorous training and a fortnight of field exercises. For females, military service will remain a voluntary option.
“This benefits the entire society; young individuals will cultivate responsibility. It does not present a challenge for them. There isn’t the level of severity that existed previously or anything akin to it. Soon, everyone will perceive themselves as more affluent, and everyone will contribute to their nation,” articulated Vucic.
The opportunity to decline weaponry on conscientious grounds is available, albeit with certain stipulations. Citizens will possess the option to select alternative civilian service, but it will extend for twice the duration – exceeding 150 days.
Vučić attributes the choice regarding militarization to the necessity of reinforcing defense capabilities in the face of worldwide instability, despite Serbia’s formal status as a militarily neutral country.
Vučić’s announcement materialized amidst escalated student demonstrations. The youth are advocating for premature parliamentary elections and are gathering signatures throughout the nation. Should the protesters prevail, they surmise that the incumbent president could be ousted from power.