Poland is considering reinstating compulsory military service to strengthen its armed forces amid threats from Russia. The Defense Ministry has voiced support for introducing conscription for both men and women.
This was reported by Bloomberg.
According to Polish Deputy Defense Minister Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka, the ministry is currently examining different models of military service. She personally favors compulsory service for both men and women, preceded by a transitional period during which military service would remain voluntary.
The Defense Ministry is expected to announce its decision at a later date, although the deputy minister did not specify a timeline.
The question of expanding armed forces and training reservists has been widely discussed across Europe since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. It has become particularly pressing for countries on NATO’s eastern flank, including Poland, where drone incursions and attempted acts of sabotage have been reported, with authorities blaming Russia.
Following the start of the full-scale war, the Polish government led by Donald Tusk expanded voluntary military training programs. However, an earlier proposal to introduce mandatory military training for all civilians was never implemented.
Poland’s armed forces currently number more than 220,000 personnel. This includes professional soldiers and members of the Territorial Defense Forces, most of whom combine military service with civilian employment or education.
In early October, Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said Poland plans to expand its armed forces to 300,000 personnel and establish a reserve force of 200,000.
Poland suspended compulsory military service in 2009. The prospect of reinstating conscription has become a subject of political debate ahead of next year’s parliamentary elections. Some politicians from the right-wing opposition are calling for its return.
Public opinion in Poland is divided over the proposal. According to an Opinia24 poll conducted for RMF FM and published on Wednesday, October 14, 48% of Poles support bringing back compulsory military service, while 38% favor maintaining an entirely professional army.
Opposition to conscription is strongest among young people, with 53% of younger respondents rejecting the idea.
