In Southeast Asia, mandatory military service is a policy adopted by several nations to bolster national defense, foster patriotism, and prepare citizens for emergencies.
While not universal across the region, some countries maintain conscription laws that require a segment of their population, usually young men, to serve for a specified period.
These programs vary significantly in structure, duration, and enforcement. Below is a closer look at the Southeast Asian countries that currently implement compulsory military service.
Singapore
Singapore maintains one of the most well-known and rigorously enforced mandatory military service systems in Southeast Asia. All male citizens and second-generation permanent residents are required to serve in the military, police, or civil defense force once they turn 18.
The standard duration of National Service is two years, though this was reduced from the previous 2.5 years as part of military reforms.
The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is a central pillar of the country’s defense strategy, and National Service is seen not only as a way to strengthen the military but also as a nation-building tool.
The policy emerged shortly after independence in 1965, at a time when Singapore faced significant security concerns. Despite its small population, the city-state maintains a relatively large and capable military force, thanks to conscription.
Deferments can be granted for educational or medical reasons, but exemptions are rare and tightly regulated. Failure to serve can result in imprisonment or fines, and it carries long-term consequences for employment and education.
Thailand
Thailand also practices mandatory military service, but with a more unique and sometimes controversial system. Every April, Thai men who turn 21 are required to report for conscription selection.
The process involves a lottery system in which participants draw red or black cards. Those who draw red are required to serve, typically for two years, while those who draw black are exempted.
However, there are exceptions. Some men volunteer to serve early, often in exchange for a shorter service period, while university students can delay conscription through the Territorial Defense Student program.
Thailand’s military has long held significant political influence, and conscription is often seen as a rite of passage for young men.
Critics of the system argue that it can be arbitrary and open to abuse, especially in poorer regions where young men may be coerced or pressured into enlisting voluntarily.
Viet Nam
Viet Nam enforces mandatory military service for all male citizens between the ages of 18 and 25. The length of service typically ranges from 18 to 24 months. Viet Nam’s conscription policy is rooted in its long history of warfare and its continued focus on military preparedness.
Every year, thousands of young Vietnamese men are drafted into the military, where they receive training and are assigned to various units depending on their skills and education.
While Viet Nam allows for certain exemptions, for example, for students or those with health issues, enforcement has become stricter in recent years as the country attempts to modernize and professionalize its armed forces.
In rural areas, where employment opportunities may be limited, military service is sometimes seen as a viable career option. The Vietnamese government has also introduced incentives, such as education and job placement assistance, to encourage service.
Laos
Laos has a lesser-known but existing conscription policy. While not as strictly enforced or as publicly discussed as in neighboring countries, the Laotian government requires military service for men aged 18 and above. The term of service ranges from 18 months to two years.
Given the country's small population and limited military resources, the conscription system plays a supplementary role in national defense rather than a dominant one.
The People's Army of Laos maintains control over both internal and external security, and military service is viewed more as a civic duty than a major career pathway.
However, detailed information on the enforcement and structure of the conscription system in Laos is not widely available due to the closed nature of the government.
Cambodia (Soon)
Cambodia is set to begin mandatory military conscription in 2026, under a law passed in 2006 but never previously enforced.
Prime Minister Hun Manet announced on July 14 that the government will activate the Law on Compulsory Military Service starting in 2026, amid rising border tensions with Thailand.
Under the revived legislation, male citizens aged 18 to 30 will be required to serve two years in the military. The original law prescribed 18 months of service, but amendments now extend active duty to 24 months including training and deployment.
Meanwhile, service for women remains voluntary, in keeping with the original provisions. This move aims to address personnel shortages and modernize Cambodia’s armed forces within a broader security strategy.
Hun Manet emphasized that conscription will help build technical skills, discipline, national readiness, and provide a trained reserve force. After completing service, conscripts may choose to return to civilian life or enlist in the professional military ranks.
