Macron Unveils Voluntary Military Service in France

President Emmanuel Macron has announced the creation of a new voluntary youth military service to begin by mid-2026 to help France respond to “accelerating threats” on the global stage, Elizabeth Pineau and Lewis Macdonald reported for Reuters.

Macron’s announcement brings France in line with nearly a dozen other European nations such as Germany and Denmark, that have launched similar projects. (Photo: French Army Facebook) 

The move is part of a broader shift across Europe, where nations that have long enjoyed decades of tranquility under U.S. security guarantees are increasingly concerned about President Donald Trump’s shifting priorities and Russia’s aggressive posture.

“France cannot remain idle,” Macron said during a speech at the 27th Mountain Infantry Brigade in Varces in the French Alps.

He said the plan was “inspired by practices of our European partners … at a time when all our European allies advance in response to a threat that weighs on us all.”

France intends to secure 100,000 reservists by 2030, Macron aides said — up from around 47,000 currently.

Its total military force would then be about 210,000 by 2030.Macron said the voluntary scheme will be open to 18- and 19-year-olds, who would be paid, and would last 10 months.

It will cost 2 billion euros ($2.32 billion), which he described as “a significant and necessary effort.” The scheme envisions engaging 3,000 people in 2026 — who will serve only on French soil — rising to 10,000 by 2030.

“My ambition for France is to reach 50,000 youth by 2035, depending on evolving threats,” Macron said.

After completing the program, participants could enter civilian life, become reservists, or join the armed forces. Macron’s announcement brings France in line with nearly a dozen other European nations such as Germany and Denmark, that have launched similar projects.