Theo Francken, the Belgian Minister of Defense, has announced a new initiative inviting all 18-year-olds to join a voluntary military service for one year.

While the initiative aims to be launched as soon as possible, participation will not be mandatory.

The military is currently facing challenges such as insufficient barracks and sleeping accommodations, which hinder the implementation of a mandatory program.

Francken emphasized that there are currently no plans for compulsory military service due to logistical constraints.