Greece to officially extend mandatory military service from 9 months to 12 months

·

Greece will officially extend its mandatory military service from 9 months to 12 months in May 2021, announced by National Defense Minister Nikos Panagiotopoulos.

Speaking in Greek parliament, Panagiotopoulos said the decision was made with the Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense (KYSEA), chaired by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

READ MORE: Greek students outraged as mandatory military service looks to be extended

“During today’s meeting of the Council for Foreign Affairs and Defense (KYSEA) the proposal of the Ministry of National Defense regarding military service was discussed, among other things,” Panagiotopoulos said.

The law will not affect those who are currently serving their military service and conscripts serving along the Turkey border or on the Aegean islands.

For probationary reserve officers of the Army, Navy and Air Force, the term of office shall be set at seventeen and fourteen months, respectively.

Photos: Alexandros Avramidis

According to Greek news outlet EURACTIV Greece, the decision was made in order to strengthen the military presence at the borders between Greece and Turkey.

In Greece, the unemployment rate of young people up to 24 years old jumped to an alarming 33% last September, according to Greek statistics office data. In the announcement, the minister said the number of students admitted to military schools would also be raised.

Military service in Greece is mandatory for men from the age of 19.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

The Greek passport (for Aussies) debacle: Part One

For quite a while now, I've been hearing complaints from Greek Australians about long delays in obtaining a Greek passport.

Harry Mavrolefteros’ First Education wins ‘Business of the Decade’ at National Awards

First Education, founded by Harry Mavrolefteros, was awarded 'Business of the Decade' at the 2025 Australian Small Business Champion Awards.

Little Legs Foundation sets monopoly World Record in memory of Alegra Vasiliou

The Little Legs Foundation officially set a new Guinness World Record for the most people playing Monopoly in a single venue.

Hellenic Medical Society of Australia’s Careers Day returns to inspire students

The Hellenic Medical Society of Australia invite all year 9-12 students to attend the HMSA ‘Pathways to Success’ Careers Day.

Melbourne man charged for impersonating police officer and assaulting families

Franesko Vamvakaris appeared in Ringwood Magistrates Court on Monday, facing charges of impersonating a police officer and unlawful assault.

You May Also Like

Zoe Ventoura on motherhood and starring in latest Broadway musical in Sydney

Zoe Ventoura, Greek Australian actress famed for her role in Packed to the Rafters, talks about her new role in Broadway musical in Sydney.

Stefanos Tsitsipas reacts to Nick Kyrgios’ withdrawal from Australia’s United Cup

Greek tennis star, Stefanos Tsitsipas, has taken a subtle dig at Nick Kyrgios after he withdrew from Australia's United Cup.

No children left on famous Greek island of Antikythera

Giorgos Harhalakis, is determined to revive the small Aegean island of Antikythera despite its depopulation challenges.