Belgian Defense Minister Theo Francken announced that the authorities in the country have sent letters to 149,000 young people over the age of 17, inviting them to voluntarily join the armed forces for a period of one year. The letters were signed by Francken, Prime Minister Bart de Wever and Defense Chief Frederic Vansina, BTA reported.
The goal is to attract 3,500 young people, from whom the 500 most suitable for training will be selected next year. In 2027, the number of those selected is expected to reach 1,000, and after 2030 - 7,000, local media specified. It is noted that this is not a step to return compulsory military service, but an attempt to create interest among young people to work for defense purposes. Those who have completed the training will have the opportunity to continue working in the army on a permanent basis or on temporary contracts.
Several youth groups affiliated with the Communist Party and other left-wing organizations objected to Franken's approach. They called on young people to be reminded that "the security of humanity is built primarily on social justice, education, cooperation and peace". According to them, the offer to young people of a salary of 2,000 euros is tempting and an attempt to take advantage of the vulnerability of young people threatened by poverty.