In France, nearly three-quarters of citizens support the introduction of voluntary military service, with older people approving it most actively, while younger people are more restrained about the initiative.

According to a survey conducted by an analytics company among more than 1,000 respondents, 73% consider the idea “very good”, 22% “very favorable”, 51% “favorable”, 9% “against”, 18% “simply against”.

The least support for the new service model comes from the 25–34-year-olds: 60% in favor, 40% against. By contrast, among people aged 65 and older, more than 80% support such a decision.

The idea was proposed in the context of a long-term threat from Russia by President Emmanuel Macron last year. He is expected to announce the introduction during a visit to the 27th Mountain Infantry Brigade base in Varces on November 27.

Plans for voluntary service and historical context

Under the preliminary scenarios, the new service will be voluntary for both men and women. It envisages a salary of about 1,000 euros per month, meals and housing for volunteers, and compensation so as not to lose a year of training. The aim is to train 10,000 young people each year for the land forces by 2030, and up to 50,000 by 2036.

Historically, France had compulsory military service for nearly two centuries until its abolition in 1997 by initiative of Jacques Chirac, after which a professional army was established.

As the government notes, explanations later emerged regarding the statement by the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Fabien Mandon, who said that France should “come to terms with the loss of its children”.

“to come to terms with the loss of their children”

– Fabien Mandon, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces

Despite differing views, the overall picture indicates significant support for the initiative, especially among older people, while younger people tend to be more cautious. The program developers aim to find a balance between defense needs and the educational path for the youth, in order to realize the ambitious plans for 2030 and 2036.