Approved: Croatia introduces mandatory military service

Under Croatian law, the “basic military training” (TVO) will last two months, with the first call-ups scheduled by the end of the year.

The first recruits are expected to report to barracks in Knin, Slunj, and Požega at the beginning of next year.

According to the Croatian Ministry of Defense, approximately 4,000 recruits will be called annually, divided into five groups.

Who will be called?

All 18-year-old males are registered in the military records, and they will be summoned for military training in the calendar year they turn 19.

Before training, conscripts will undergo a medical examination to determine their fitness for military service. The Ministry of Defense will organize the training as close as possible to the recruits’ places of residence to make access easier.

The examination assesses the potential soldier’s health and fitness. Conscripts may be sent for training, granted a deferral of service as prescribed by law (up to the age of 29), or be exempted from the obligation under conditions and procedures specified by law.