Luxembourg’s defence strategy has become a main point of discussion following the statement by the Chief of the Armed Forces on the need to enhance the country’s resilience in todays’ unpredictable geopolitical environment and thus the idea of re-introducing conscription in the country was underlined. However, the Chief of the Armed Forces stated that such decisions are up to the policymakers. Besides, Defence Minister Yuriko Backes has also expressed the need for a discussion on the topic. As a result, a public petition published on 22 November has calls for the right to say “no” to obligatory military service. The petition has so far garnered 30% of the required signatures with still 30 days to go.

At the same time, discussions about establishing a volunteer army reserve has gained momentum. The Professional Syndicate of the Public Force, which also includes SPAL¹, underlined the importance of the creation of such a reserve, arguing that it could strengthen Luxembourg’s defence capabilities. Luxembourg’s Defence Minister, has underlined that the Ministry is working with the army to make a the military career a more attractive one by investing in improving infrastructure, provide new career paths and new professions. On the latter, it will focus on highly technological areas that did not exist before.

Overall, Luxembourg is debating its approach towards defence in today’s complex security environment. Whether by re-introducing conscription or by the establishment of a volunteer reserve, Luxembourg’s military strategy will also redefine its role in the NATO Alliance.

¹SPAL is a member of EUROMIL.