Overview
- Media reports Thursday said 72% of contacted 18-year-old men returned the online form, leaving about 28% without a reply despite a legal duty to respond.
- The Defence Ministry plans an administrative fine of €250 for persistent non‑responders after deadlines and reminders, with higher amounts allowed by law but not planned.
- The ministry named 24 cities for new assessment hubs, with the first center expected to open this year and nationwide mustering ramping up from mid‑2027.
- Roughly half of those who replied indicated interest in at least six months of voluntary service, and recruiters say postings close to home often decide who actually signs on.
- The reform aims to grow active personnel to about 255,000–270,000 and build a 200,000‑member reserve by 2035, with a conditional return to limited conscription if volunteer targets fall short.