NATIONAL – Conscription letter is again on the mat for 17-year-olds. These days, around 200,000 Dutch people are receiving the so-called Conscription Letter again. This is intended for all young people who are or will be 17 this year. People under the age of 35 who have (re)registered as Dutch citizens will also receive the letter.
Compulsory attendance has been suspended since May 1, 1997. This means that conscripts are no longer called up. But in exceptional situations the government may decide to do so. For example, in the event of an impending war.
That year
In her letter, Ollongren also draws the young people’s attention to the so-called Defense Year. That is different from conscription. Those who are motivated and suitable may serve one year in the military organization. This can be done after high school, further education or, if they are a bit older, during a sabbatical from their professional career.
As full colleagues with an appropriate salary, service members are given the opportunity to develop personally and professionally. In this way they help build a strong armed forces.
The Defense Year started for the first time in September last year. Since then, 221 service members have been appointed. This number will grow to 1,000 in 2025.
The Dutch armed forces consist of professional personnel. However, there is still compulsory military service in the Netherlands for people aged 17 to 45. But the Ministry of Defense no longer calls up conscripts. There are no plans to do that again. Not even because of the war in Ukraine.
Compulsory attendance postponed
Conscription in the Netherlands has not been abolished. But since May 1, 1997, compulsory attendance has been postponed. Defense therefore no longer calls up new conscripts. That would require years of preparation. There are no barracks and instructors for it. And there is also not enough equipment (such as uniforms and vehicles).
Anyone who turns 17 will receive a letter from the government about registering for military service. People who become Dutch (again) until the age of 35 will also receive the letter.
Conscription for women
Since January 1, 2020, compulsory military service also applies to women. Women who turn 17 therefore also receive a letter from the government about compulsory military service.
It is currently not possible to apply for an exemption
It is not possible to apply for exemption from military service (for example for medical reasons). Because the attendance requirement has been suspended, no inspection will take place.
Dual nationality
Do you have dual nationality? Then you may be subject to military service in your country of origin. For questions about (compulsion of) military service, please contact the embassy or consulate of the country where you or your (grand)parents come from.
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