13 years after conscription was abolished, Lebanon plans reintroduction

After 13 years since the abolition of compulsory military service in Lebanon, the Lebanese Ministry of Defence and the military command are working in a project to re-establish conscription.

The project’s details remain undisclosed. However, some information has been made public. The new draft system is intended to be different from the one abolished in 2007. If the project continues and gets approved the draft won’t be completely military-oriented. According to the Defence Minister Zeina Akar, it will also include social services, education, administrative jobs and non-military activities.

Before 2005, men over 18 years old had to serve a full year in the military. Then the length of the military service was adjusted to 6 months. Two years later the system was completely abolished.

Source: The 961. Lebanon Plans to Reinstate Mandatory Military Service, 27 July 2020.