How does compulsory enlistment for military service work?

I read about compulsory military enlistment in some countries and was wondering how it works. Are there specific criteria or conditions for mandatory service? How does it affect young people like us?

Compulsory military service, also known as conscription or a draft, varies by country and circumstances. Typically, it involves citizens of a certain age range being required to enlist for a set period of military service.

The age at which citizens are required to serve can vary, but it's common for compulsory military service to begin at 18, the age at which individuals are usually considered adults. For example, in South Korea, all men who are between the ages of 18 and 28 are required to serve in the military for about 18 to 21 months. Meanwhile, Israel mandates both men and women serve; men for three years and women for two starting at age 18.

As far as criteria for service, this varies but can include health and fitness standards, educational level, and moral standards. For instance, some countries may excuse individuals from service due to physical or mental health conditions, whereas others have exceptions for students pursuing higher education.

How mandatory service affects young people greatly depends on the individual and their specific circumstances. On the positive side, military service can provide structured discipline, physical training, skills development, and a sense of purpose and camaraderie. However, it can also disrupt studies or career paths, introduce stressors related to military life and possible combat deployment, and may uproot individuals from their communities.

It's important to note that the United States does not currently have mandatory military service. It does have the Selective Service System, which requires all men aged 18-25 to register and could be used for a draft, but a draft has not been implemented since the Vietnam War. While registration is required, this does not mean these individuals will be called to serve unless in a national emergency.

In summary, the specifics of compulsory military service depend on the regulations of the individual country but generally involve a certain period of service for individuals within a certain age range. The impact on young people can be varied and multifaceted.