Men who haven't completed military service may be called for training, Minister of Defense
Several men in the Republic of Moldova could be required to undergo military training. The training would last up to 42 days, divided into several stages, allowing participants to continue their studies or professional activities. These changes are outlined in a draft law currently under review; authorities have assured that the new rules will not call up all men eligible for military service at the same time.
The draft proposal will be submitted to the Government once it obtains the necessary ministerial endorsements; then it will move to Parliament, where it must be reviewed and voted on in two readings. Minister of Defense Anatolie Nosatîi explained during a show on "Vocea Basarabiei" that the introduction of these new training formats will be implemented gradually, contingent upon financial resources and the National Army's capacity to organize the training sessions.
"This does not mean that, upon approval, all men aged 18 to 60 will be called up for military service. I want to clarify this point to prevent any misinformation on the subject," the Minister stated.
One of the primary changes concerns citizens who are currently not enlisted in military service for various reasons. The authorities intend to provide them with basic training structured so it does not require a prolonged absence from their jobs. To facilitate this program, the Ministry of Defense plans to allocate specific funds in the 2027 budget.
"We do not wish to pull citizens away from their current occupations. Instead, we aim to utilize their free time—or time granted by their employers—to provide this training, which, according to current projections, will not exceed a total of 42 days to complete the full course" Nosatîi explained.
For those who are currently employed, the training is intended to be organized into several distinct modules rather than a single, continuous period. No specific schedule has been established yet. The minister stated that current legislation already allows for the call-up of reservists for military exercises lasting up to 45 days; however, the authorities intend to expand and reorganize this system.
For students, theoretical training will continue to be provided through university military departments, with an increased focus on practical exercises. Young people will be required to participate in activities at National Army training centers, where they will acquire basic military skills. These activities could take place during holidays or outside of regular study hours.
"During their free time—such as during summer breaks or outside of class hours—they will cover the theoretical component within their faculties, and subsequently, over the course of a few weeks, they will undergo practical, hands-on training at a National Army training center," the minister explained.
These new training formats will not replace mandatory conscript military service, which remains compulsory and will continue to last 12 months. The National Army will also maintain its mixed system of contract-based professional soldiers and conscripts. For the upcoming autumn and winter induction period, the authorities aim to recruit approximately 1,200 young people.
