Lithuanian opposition leader pushes for universal conscription starting 2030

Opposition leader Laurynas Kasčiūnas, representing the Homeland Union-Lithuanian Christian Democrats, submitted legislative changes that would overhaul Lithuania’s draft system by instituting universal conscription from Jan. 1, 2030. The bill would eliminate one outlet annual quota and lottery, making military service mandatory for nearly all men on the draft list, while women could join on a voluntary basis. Exemptions would apply to individuals with deferments, certain final-year students, vocational trainees in short-supply professions, and those otherwise excused, with an alternative civilian service remaining available.

The Defence Ministry’s current draft list includes 42,556 youths, with 5,000 scheduled for call-up, and the armed forces aim to increase conscript numbers to 7,000-8,000 by 2030, according to Chief of Defence Raimundas Vaikšnoras. Kasčiūnas emphasized the need for a comprehensive review of the conscription concept to match modern warfare demands, such as drone operators, before allocating funding, and called for a definitive implementation deadline to avoid endless debate.

He noted the conservatives previously missed the chance to introduce universal conscription during their 2020-2024 government term but had enacted interim measures. President Gitanas Nausėda and Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas have also signaled support for moving toward universal conscription.