Will conscription return in Lebanon?

As Lebanon grapples with profound political, economic and security transformations, a renewed debate has emerged over whether reinstating mandatory national service could help the country navigate its fragile transition.

Advocates see national service as a tool to rebuild social cohesion, strengthen state institutions and invest in youth at a time of rising polarization. Critics, however, warn that compulsory service could deepen existing crises if poorly designed or politically misused.

The discussion reflects a broader search for ideas capable of repairing Lebanon’s fractured “internal house” after decades of conflict and dysfunction.

National service as a tool for social cohesion

Lebanon’s deep sectarian divisions remain one of its most persistent vulnerabilities. Years of war, political paralysis and competing loyalties have left scars across all communities, each with its own painful memories and sacrifices. Proponents of national service argue that a shared civic experience could help dismantle psychological barriers between sects, regions and social groups.

By bringing young Lebanese together under a single national framework, service could promote a sense of collective belonging, prioritizing citizenship over sectarian or partisan identity. Similar models have been used, in varying forms, by countries such as Switzerland and Singapore to foster social integration and civic responsibility. In the Lebanese context, supporters believe such a program could help reaffirm the state as the common and final reference point for all citizens.

Security needs and the role of the Lebanese Army

Security considerations are central to the argument for reinstating service.

The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) face expanding responsibilities, particularly in southern Lebanon, amid expectations that United Nations (UN) peacekeeping forces, the United Nations Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL), will draw down by the end of 2026. At the same time, the state has reaffirmed its commitment to monopolizing the use of force and confiscating all non-state weapons.

Mandatory or semi-mandatory service is seen by some as a practical way to bolster the army’s human reserves without creating long-term financial burdens. Unlike permanent recruitment, limited-term service would provide additional manpower on a temporary basis, helping address shortages while avoiding sustained costs to the defense budget.

Youth, discipline and social protection

Beyond security, advocates emphasize the social dimension.

Lebanon’s youth face rising exposure to drugs, crime and unemployment amid prolonged economic collapse. Supporters argue that structured national service, particularly if it includes civilian components, could protect young people from social risks while instilling discipline, responsibility and skills transferable to civilian life.

Proposals discussed in recent years envision flexible models, with service periods ranging from 3 months to one year, and options spanning military, administrative, educational and social work. Such hybrid models aim to reduce the physical and psychological burden traditionally associated with conscription while still achieving national objectives.

In 2020, a tweet by former Lebanese Minister of Defense Zeina Akar regarding preparations by the LAF to reinstate compulsory conscription sparked widespread debate across the country. Akar stated, “The service will be different and divided into 3, 6, 9 months, or one year, and will include social services, administrative duties, education, reforestation and other activities,” although she did not specify a date for the launch of the new initiative.

Criticism and ongoing concerns

Opponents caution that the army’s current structure relies effectively on volunteers and may not require compulsory recruitment. Others argue that mandatory service could disproportionately burden youth lacking the physical capacity or economic flexibility to participate. This is especially true regarding the youth that are entering the job market and aiming to kickstart their professional career

Many favor optional civic programs instead, allowing young people to contribute through voluntary social or environmental initiatives.

Essential background information

The first law governing compulsory military service in the country was issued on 8 December 1953. Under this law, the Ministry of Education introduced military training into the secondary school curriculum, a practice that continued until 1975, the year the Lebanese War broke out.

In 1993, compulsory military service was reinstated pursuant to Legislative Decree No. 102, and 2 training camps were established: Warwar (southeast of Beirut) and Arman (in northern Lebanon).

Men from the age of 18 were required to serve for 12 months. This period was later reduced to 6 months in 2005, before conscription was permanently abolished in 2007, after which military service became voluntary and based solely on enlistment.

In conclusion, the debate over mandatory national service reflects Lebanon’s broader struggle to redefine itself amid uncertainty. Whether compulsory or voluntary, military or civilian, the core question remains whether a shared national experience can help bridge divisions, strengthen institutions and offer youth a stake in the country’s future. In a fragile moment marked by sweeping change, the idea continues to resonate.