Several European countries already employ conscription for its army.

14:55, Thu, Jan 8, 2026 Updated: 14:56, Thu, Jan 8, 2026

British Army

Britain currently has no active plans to bring back national service.

(Image: Getty)

As security fears grow across Europe in 2026, compulsory military service is no longer a relic of the Cold War. From the Nordics to the Mediterranean, a growing number of countries either never abolished conscription or have actively brought it back in response to rising tensions, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

While the UK currently relies on a fully professional armed forces model, defence experts and former military leaders have increasingly warned that Britain may one day be forced to reconsider. Earlier this month, Professor Richard Vinen, a historian at King's College London and author of a definitive study on postwar National Service, told the Daily Express: "I have no desire myself to live through a World War. But it's not looking good."

Here are the 15 European countries that already have some form of conscription in place.

Russia

1. Russia

Russia enforces mandatory military service for men, typically lasting 12 months, alongside large-scale mobilisation measures introduced since 2022.

(Image: Getty)

Lithuania

2. Lithuania

Lithuania reinstated conscription in 2015, using a lottery-based system that calls up young men each year.

(Image: Getty)

Estonia

3. Estonia

Estonia has retained conscription since regaining its independence, requiring men to serve for eight to 11 months, with women able to volunteer.

(Image: Getty)

Austria

4. Austria

Austria has long maintained mandatory national service. All men must complete six months of military service or opt for nine months of civilian service. Women can volunteer.

(Image: Getty)

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