The Geopolitics and Security Studies Center, together with the association “Total Defence”, held a meeting on the implementation of universal conscription in Lithuania by 2030. The discussion brought together representatives of professional communities, local government and the media, as well as academics, business representatives and civil society actors.
Participants agreed that the implementation of universal conscription should become one of Lithuania’s key national security priorities and that preparations should be carried out consistently with a view to implementation by 2030. It was emphasised that universal conscription should not mean identical military service for everyone – the system should provide for different forms of service and preparedness, primarily based on the needs of the state, while also taking into account citizens’ health, skills and capabilities. Participants also agreed that implementing universal conscription is a whole-of-state responsibility requiring consistent cooperation between state institutions, businesses, non-governmental organisations and civil society.
During the meeting, participants signed a joint position paper, “Universal Conscription 2030”, which outlines the strategic direction and principles for implementing universal conscription in Lithuania by 2030. “Universal Conscription 2030” is an open document, and representatives of civil society groups, political leadership, businesses, non-governmental and other organisations are invited to sign it in order to build broad support for the implementation of universal conscription by 2030.