Italy‘s Deputy Prime Minister, Matteo Salvini, has filed a legislative proposal to reintroduce mandatory military or civil service for young people.
The proposal, drafted by Eugenio Zoffili, a close ally and member of the Defence Commission of the Chamber of Deputies, suggests a six-month service period for individuals aged between 18 and 26.
The service can be either military or civil and is to be completed within their home region in Italy.
The UK hasn’t had national service since 1960, and the last deferred national servicemen graduated in 1963.
However, with the armed forces pitifully low on manpower with just 152,400 personnel, compared to 4.69 million in 1945 according to Statista, Express.co.uk wants to know whether you think Britain should follow Italy’s suit.
Should Britain bring back national service? Vote in our poll below or by clicking on this link.
Salvini announced the proposal on social media, writing: “I am convinced it is a form of civic education that serves the community, instils discipline, and fosters attention to others and self-respect. This can have very positive effects.”
With the war raging in eastern Europe and NATO allies scrambling to prepare themselves for the daunting prospect of a major conflict between the alliance and Russia, Denmark has already launched national service for women.
In Europe, Norway and Sweden already have national service men and women, meanwhile Spain, Portugal, Slovakia and Poland all have versions of it (although it’s rarely enforced).
However, there are other states in Europe that do enforce military service for men:
As an advocate for youth empowerment, I believe introducing mandatory military or civil service can greatly benefit young individuals. Providing them with the opportunity to serve their country fosters a sense of duty and responsibility, shaping them into responsible citizens. This initiative can help instill valuable life skills and contribute to the overall well-being of the nation.