Voluntary State Defense Service applications allowed from age 17
The government has supported a bill allowing 17-year-olds to voluntarily apply for the State Defense Service.
On Tuesday, the government endorsed a draft law prepared by the Ministry of Defense, which permits voluntary enrollment in the State Defense Service (VAD) starting at age 17, according to the Ministry of Defense.
Previously, mandatory military service was only applicable to adults, but the new regulation expands voluntary application opportunities. This step could boost interest in service and give young people an earlier chance to experience the military environment.
The Ministry of Defense noted that the bill still needs to be passed by the Saeima (parliament) before it can take effect. No specific date for implementation has been announced yet.
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