Young Poles resist return of military draft, new poll finds

Almost half of Poles back reinstating compulsory military service, but most young adults are against it, a new poll shows.

File photo: Polish soldiers participate in the Dynamic Front 26 military exercise at the Cincu Range near Fagaras, Romania, 09 February 2026.

EPA/BOGDAN CRISTEL

The Opinia24 survey for RMF FM found 48% in favour of bringing back compulsory basic service, while 38% preferred to keep an army of professional soldiers. A further 16% were undecided.

Opposition was strongest among 18- to 24-year-olds, 53% of whom rejected the idea. People with secondary or higher education were also wary, at 44% and 45% against respectively, as were 47% of Civic Coalition (KO) voters.

Respondents were split over who should serve. Some 24% said only men should, while 22% wanted both men and women covered.

Supporters argue that conscription would enlarge the armed forces and give wider sections of society basic military training. Opponents say modern armies need, above all, professional preparation and specialist skills.

(jh)

Source: PAP