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Future of Conscript Armies and National Service
Mr Richard Bitzinger Adjunct/Visiting Fellow
Mr Richard Bitzinger
1
While many developed countries have transitioned to professional, all-volunteer armed forces, many others have kept some form of conscript-based militaries. These countries could provide valuable lessons for the SAF as it seeks to keep National Service relevant and effective in the 21st Century. Important issues to explore and assess include: universal conscription vs. selective service; length of initial service (basic training plus standard service); costs of conscription and military service; exemptions and alternative service; how military training is carried out and maintained throughout national service; types, length, and requirements for reservist duty; and how countries deal with the economic impact of reservist duty. Case studies would include three Nordic countries which have had similar experiences (to the SAF) with conscription and national service: Norway, Finland, and Sweden. In addition, if resources are available, one Asian country (either South Korea or Taiwan) could
| Theme: | International Politics and Security |
| Region: | Global |
| Entity: | IDSS |
