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Navigating Change: the Societal Challenges of Estonia’s Conscription Reform

Citizenship
National Identity
Security
Youth
Eleri Lillemäe
University of Tartu
Kairi Kasearu
University of Tartu
Eleri Lillemäe
University of Tartu
Tiia-Triin Truusa Truusa
Baltic Defence College

Abstract

The Ukrainian war has prompted Estonia to propose an interim year in its conscription system for 2026, significantly reducing the intake of conscripts to focus on training regular forces. This gap year aims to incorporate battlefield insights, modernize officer training, and provide a structured period for reflection and adaptation. This pause is expected to facilitate the development of a more agile and responsive military force, more in tune with contemporary warfare. The initiative is designed to enhance officers’ tactical and operational competencies, ensuring they are well-prepared for future challenges and equipped to train conscripts based on the latest battlefield developments. From a societal perspective, the introduction of a gap year in conscription raises important questions about balancing military obligations with individual life courses. Over the past decade, the Estonian Defense Forces have made substantial changes and put quite a bit onf consideration into the conscript service system in Estonia which has become inclreasinly aligned with societal norms and values, providing individuals with convertible competencies that support their personal and professional development. However, the shift towards more military-specific, likely less convertible skills may pose challenges to the overall appeal of conscript service. This transition could potentially impact the willingness of young Estonians to participate in conscription, as the benefits of military service become less transferable to civilian life. Also, a gap year would produce one year where comparatively few are drafted potentially causing a disruption in the system where young people prefer to complete their conscription service right after their high school studies. This may affect the morale and motivation of conscripts. Therefore, Estonian case provides a valuable opportunity to examine the intersection of military strategy and societal values in the context of conscript service. By analyzing the proposed gap year and its anticipated impact on training models and conscript-military relationships, this study aims to contribute to the broader discourse on military reform and its implications for national defense and social cohesion.