Overview
- The new service is open to ages 18–25 and lasts 10 months, combining one month of basic training with nine months in operational units.
- A first cohort of 3,000 begins in summer 2026, rising to 10,000 participants in 2030 and 50,000 by 2035.
- Volunteers will be paid about €800 per month, receive housing, meals and equipment, and serve only within France.
- Macron ruled out any return to universal conscription and stressed that young participants will not be sent to Ukraine.
- The plan also introduces a mandatory army internship for high school students and requires youth to take part in at least one memorial ceremony each year.