In Russia, new conscription rules are set to be introduced starting April 1, 2025, after the State Duma unanimously approved a bill extending the validity of military commissariat decisions on conscription for military service up to one year. The new procedure could take effect during the upcoming spring conscription period, which kicks off on the same day.
The bill aims to enhance the organization of the conscription process, particularly for citizens who have not been drafted during previous campaigns. As it stands, such decisions are valid only within the framework of an individual draft campaign, whether it be spring or autumn. This change will potentially streamline the process, reducing the inconvenience for conscripts and decreasing the burden on military draft commissions.
According to Andrei Kartapolov, the chairman of the State Duma Committee on Defense, the revision comes in response to logistical challenges that have plagued the draft system. “During each draft period, we need to call up as many citizens as possible to fulfill the tasks set forth by the president,” he stated during discussions on the bill. Kartapolov emphasized that an overwhelming number of draft commission decisions are canceled, causing inefficiencies. “Last spring, for example, 11,600 decisions were canceled in Moscow alone,” he noted, explaining how this situation forces individuals to repeatedly go through medical exams and assessments with each new draft period.
To alleviate this issue, the bill also proposes creating a unified draft commission for multiple districts, which is seen as a step toward simplifying and making the conscription process more transparent. The upcoming spring conscription campaign is intended to operate under these new norms, aiming to ensure that citizens can fulfill their commitments with less hassle and more clarity.
In addition to extending the validity of conscription decisions, the new legislation includes provisions for electronic notifications. Military commissariats will utilize digital platforms to issue calls to serve, making the process easier for both conscripts and military officials. The new bill anticipates that a unified register of conscripts will be established in a testing mode, containing vital information regarding conscripts’ backgrounds, such as their employment status, education, and medical conditions that could affect their eligibility.
On March 19, 2025, during its first reading, the bill received substantial support from 345 parliamentarians, reinforcing its likelihood of passing into law. Kartapolov outlined further reforms which could see the expansion of professions eligible for alternative service, increasing the list from 238 to 266 roles. New professions being introduced include machine operator for washing special clothing, video recording operator, and various other roles that have been identified to support public services.
The changes also signal a new approach to alternative civil service, which remains relatively rare, comprising less than 0.3 percent of all conscripts. Young individuals seeking this option will need to apply six months ahead of the draft, submitting necessary documentation to their local military commissariat. This includes particulars surrounding why they feel unable to serve in the military based on their beliefs or faith.
The proposed legal changes exemplify an effort to streamline military personnel processes while addressing ongoing challenges faced by military and civilian institutions alike. In a statement that captures the law’s intent, Kartapolov commented, “These norms will allow parents to worry less and reassure our homeland that future defenders will arrive at military commissariats with enthusiasm to serve.” The law aims not only to enhance military readiness but also to foster a supportive environment for those called to serve.
As the spring conscription approaches, all eyes will be on how these new regulations unfold and whether they will indeed ease the draft process while fulfilling the necessary military manpower required in light of recent geopolitical tensions.
