In Latvia, changes are planned to be made to the National Defense Service Law to address issues identified during its practical application. The corresponding bill has already been submitted for public discussion, reports lvportals.
The law has been in effect since April 2023 and has already been adjusted after the first drafts, but during its implementation, shortcomings have again emerged — both in the selection of conscripts and in the organization of service and provision of social guarantees. New amendments have been prepared taking into account the experience of the National Armed Forces and the National Guard.
One of the key changes is the possibility to apply for voluntary service at the age of 17. Currently, young people who turn 18 after the application period ends find themselves at a disadvantage. Moreover, the verification of compliance with the requirements will only take place after reaching adulthood.
It is also proposed to allow changing the chosen type of service — but only before undergoing the medical commission. This should help take life circumstances into account and reduce the number of requests for deferment.
The deferment period is also planned to be shortened — from 26 to 24 years. According to the developers, this will help avoid situations where a person is conscripted under changed life circumstances, for example, after starting studies or starting a family.
Social guarantees are also being expanded. For instance, compensation for transportation costs will be available not only to residents of Latvia but also to citizens living abroad if they come for a medical commission or service.
Another innovation is the possibility to voluntarily switch to an 11-month service in the first year. Currently, such a transition is only possible through compulsion. At the same time, a reverse transition to other types of service is not provided.
Furthermore, the bill takes practical aspects into account — for example, it allows for the placement of military personnel not only in barracks but also in field conditions if necessary.
A separate clarification is provided regarding the list of individuals who will not be conscripted. This includes, in particular, graduates of military educational institutions and participants in international missions of the National Guard — it is believed that they have already contributed to the country's defense.
Overall, the changes are aimed at making the system more flexible, fair, and adapted to the real life of conscripts.
