Belgium introduced a new one-year temporary recruitment initiative aimed at tackling security challenges, which generated significant enthusiasm among young individuals, with a competition rate surpassing 6 to 1. On August 4, the Belgian Ministry of Defense revealed that 3,248 individuals aged 17 and above had applied for the voluntary program, which concluded in April, and 500 people were recently chosen. Women made up 20% of those selected, a greater share than the current 12% female presence in the regular army.
Defense Minister Theo Franken said, “At first, we weren’t sure if young people would show interest or if the ministry could properly manage this program, but the reaction from the youth was extremely favorable.” Prospective candidates went through demanding procedures, such as fundamental intelligence assessments and physical fitness evaluations. The chosen individuals will complete 10 weeks of foundational military training, covering drill, navigation, and emergency care, at a military training facility this month prior to being placed in army, navy, or air force units.
The program’s success is credited to the Defense Ministry’s initiatives aimed at engaging with young people. In November of last year, the ministry distributed recruitment letters to 149,000 17-year-olds across the country. The letter stated, “Congratulations! You will turn 18 next year. This is a significant milestone and a moment that will impact your future. We are offering you a unique opportunity: a one-year voluntary military service.” It also included a basic monthly salary of 2,000 euros (about 3.3 million Korean won) along with housing benefits. The ‘leading by example’ approach of national figures, including the Crown Princess, also played a role in the response.
The ministry’s customized administrative assistance, which offered comprehensive responses to queries such as “Am I eligible to apply if I’ve received a parking fine?” or “Is it acceptable to have body art?”, also played a role in the program’s success. Despite criticisms from left-wing organizations, who argued that the generous wages were intended to entice young individuals into military service, enthusiasm among the youth did not wane.
Out of the 500 chosen candidates, 306 came from the capital, Brussels. Local media commented, “The program’s provision of meaningful opportunities—such as military training, discipline, and a feeling of responsibility—appealed to the younger generation looking for purpose in life.” Franken stated, “The outcomes of this recruitment indicate that the younger generation is no longer ignoring global geopolitical issues.”
In its ‘Defense Strategic Vision’ released last year, Belgium noted, “We need to get ready for major conflicts and safeguard our territory,” and intends to boost its active military force from the present 24,000 personnel to 34,500 by 2035. The one-year temporary recruitment initiative will also be expanded to include 1,000 individuals each year. The maximum age for reservist qualification has been increased from 49 to 67 years.
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