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—
President
France
Emmanuel Macron
on Thursday (27/11) announced the start of a new voluntary youth military service in mid-2026.
This program is designed to help France face increasing threats internationally, amidst the ongoing Russia vs Ukraine war.
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This policy is part of major changes in Europe.Several countries have enjoyed peace for decades thanks to the security protection of the United States.
Now they feel uneasy about US President Donald Trump’s changing priorities and Russia’s increasingly aggressive attitude.
“France must not remain silent,” Macron said in a speech at the 27th Mountain Infantry Brigade in Varces, French Alps, as quoted
Reuters
.
He also explained the plan was “inspired by the practices of European partners as all allies mobilize to respond to threats that affect us all.”
Macron said the program was open to youth aged 18-19 years and provided payment lasting for 10 months.
The program cost US$2.32 billion (around Rp. 38.6 trillion) and was described as a “large but important expenditure.”
This scheme targets 3,000 participants in 2026 who will serve in France, then increasing to 10,000 by 2030.
Macron’s advisers say France aims to have 100,000 reserve troops by 2030, up from around 47,000 currently, bringing its total military strength to around 210,000.
“My goal for France is to reach 50,000 participants by 2035, in line with evolving threats,” Macron said.
After completing the program, participants can return to civilian society and become reservists in the armed forces.
Before Macron announced the policy, staff highlighted survey results showing strong support for the military in the 18-25 year age group.
However, Macron’s announcement was pushed aside by a statement by the Head of the French Armed Forces, General Fabien Mandon, who sparked controversy because he said that France must be prepared for casualties due to Russian pressure.
He said “what is lacking is the courage to accept suffering in order to maintain its identity,” and that France must “be prepared to face the loss of its generation.”
Macron later calmed the public reaction and told RTL radio “we must immediately correct the wrong perception that we will send our youth to Ukraine,” alluding to Russia’s invasion in 2022.
France is now in line with dozens of European countries such as Germany and Denmark which have launched similar programs.
(rnp/bac)
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