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Compulsory military service

What this indicator measures

In some countries, the law requires citizens (often men, sometimes women too) to perform military service for a given period, even when the army also recruits volunteers. Elsewhere, the army is made up only of volunteers and professionals. The classification comes from the text of the CIA World Factbook on military service age and obligation; countries where the text does not settle the question are left out.

How to read this?

"Compulsory" means that military service is required of some citizens (even if it is selective or limited to one sex); "Provided for but suspended or not enforced" means that the law allows it without it being used; "No compulsory military service" means that the army relies on volunteers.

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134countries with data
2023–2026data year(s)

In brief

Compulsory military service: 134 countries and territories covered. Breakdown: Compulsory military service : 61 ; Provided for by law but suspended or not enforced : 9 ; No compulsory military service : 64.

Why this indicator matters

Military service is a civic duty that some states impose on their citizens. Comparing this point shows which countries rely on conscription and which on a volunteer army.

What makes this indicator vary

The choice depends on military history, the security context, political traditions and defense reforms. Several countries have suspended or reinstated service over time.

Reading precautions

The classification comes from a reading of the text of the CIA World Factbook, which is sometimes imprecise: countries where the text does not settle the question are left out. The law may provide for service without it being called up, or limit it to one sex.

Compulsory military service

Compulsory military service (61)

Provided for by law but suspended or not enforced (9)

No compulsory military service (64)

Frequently asked questions

Where does the "Compulsory military service" data come from?

It comes from CIA World Factbook (Military service age and obligation). Site last updated: November 8, 2026. Each country is shown with the year of its most recent value.

What does provided for but suspended mean?

It means that the law allows compulsory military service, but that it is not currently used. It may be reinstated depending on the state's decisions.

Does service apply to all citizens?

Not always. It may be limited to men, be selective or apply to only some people. The label compulsory covers these cases.

Source and update

Source : CIA World Factbook (Military service age and obligation). Site last updated: November 8, 2026.

Indicators in the same category : Civic duties