Amid the ongoing crisis in Myanmar, the military junta has imposed mandatory military service for all youth, requiring both men and women to join the army. Those evading recruitment could face a prison sentence of three to five years. The junta's announcement of new conscription laws stipulates that men aged 18-35 and women aged 18-27 must serve for two years, with a potential extension of up to five years if the military rebellion persists.
Additionally, doctors under 45 years of age are required to serve in the army for three years under the new rules. The rebellion in Myanmar began after the military junta seized power from the elected civilian government led by Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021. The junta is currently facing armed protests throughout the country, with recent reports of border guard police and soldiers fighting ethnic minority forces fleeing into Bangladesh.
The military's attacks have encountered resistance, leading to a decline in officer morale. The junta believes that the new military service law will bolster its efforts against the armed rebels. The recruitment law includes temporary extensions for civil servants and students, while those engaged in religious activities may be exempted. Major General Zaw Min Tun, the military government spokesman, emphasized that national security is the responsibility of every citizen, urging them to serve in the army with pride.
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