Macron weighs introducing voluntary military service in France

French President Emmanuel Macron may announce the creation of a voluntary military service as early as Thursday, Le Figaro reports.

The project has been under study for months amid a global climate of “uncertainty and rising tension.” Speaking on the sidelines of the G20 summit, Macron said France must remain a strong nation with a capable army and collective mobilization readiness.

According to Le Figaro, scenarios under review include recruiting 10,000 to 50,000 young people annually. The service could last up to 10 months, with compensation of several hundred euros.

France’s armed forces currently comprise about 200,000 active personnel and 47,000 reservists. By 2030, the goal is to reach 210,000 and 80,000 respectively.