Patriotic youth are full of aspirations and have a keen interest in joining military forces. That’s why young hopefuls find it an easy option to serve their country and earn valuable skills for future work. There are different ways you can do this, either by voluntary enlistment or by the consequences of a draft. The military draft is the process where the government selects and trains individuals to serve in the armed forces. However, there are always some pros and cons of Military draft that must be considered beforehand. Go through the following segments to understand them better.
Also referred to as conscription, this system mandates that individuals aged 18-25 enlist and serve in the military if they meet the eligibility criteria after assessment. Those who are drafted undergo several months of training and are deployed to wars or assigned to various positions within the military.
While there are proponents of mandatory military service, there are also those who dissent from it. Let's explore some of the pros of Military Draft that people often discuss.
By promoting the ranks of men and women countries ensure their national security is in right hands. Sufficient soldiers are ready to face any conflict, whether it be a civil war or a multinational affair. Recognizing the inevitability of casualties, it is prudent to have reinforcements to fill the vacancies left by the injured or lost in a war. Implementing a military draft can help achieve this goal.
A draft guarantees that the government has enough soldiers to serve the country in case of war or other forms of conflict. Without a draft, the military will have a shortage of soldiers, which could put the country at risk. By mandating military service, the government can expand its military capabilities and be prepared for any threat that may arise.
Under a draft system, all eligible individuals are subject to selection regardless of their social status or background. This promotes equality among citizens and ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to serve their country. It also helps break down class barriers and creates a sense of unity among citizens from different backgrounds.
Military service instills a sense of discipline and responsibility in individuals. The rigorous training and strict rules help develop character, leadership skills, and teamwork among recruits. These are valuable qualities that can benefit an individual throughout their life, whether they continue their military career or not.
Military service can serve as a means of employment for those who may have difficulty finding jobs in the civilian world. The military offers various job positions and training that can provide valuable skills, making individuals more marketable in the job market after completing their service.
While there are certainly advantages to implementing a military draft, there are also some disadvantages that must be taken into consideration. Some of them include:
Mandatory military service limits an individual's freedom to choose their own path in life. It forces them to put their personal plans and aspirations on hold while they serve their country, which may not align with their goals or values.
Military service can be physically and emotionally exhausting, especially during times of war or conflict. The demands of military training and operational duties can take a toll on an individual's well-being, leading to physical injuries and mental health issues such as PTSD.
Implementing a military draft requires significant resources, including funding for training, equipment, and salaries of soldiers. This can put a strain on the government's budget and may lead to cuts in other important areas such as education and healthcare.
With a draft system, there is no guarantee that all the individuals selected will be competent or fit for military service. This can result in lower morale and effectiveness among troops, which could ultimately jeopardize national security.
In some cases, a military draft may be used by governments for their own political gain or to suppress opposition. This can lead to the abuse of power and further undermine individual rights and freedoms.
The implementation of a military draft has its advantages and disadvantages, each with its own set of implications. While it can ensure national security, provide needed force, promote equality, and introduce job opportunities, it also comes with the risk of infringing on personal freedoms, taking a physical and emotional toll on individuals, putting a strain on government resources, and potential for abuse.
Ultimately, governments must carefully consider all aspects before implementing a military draft to ensure the best outcome for their country and its citizens. With proper planning and consideration of all factors, a military draft can be an effective way to strengthen a nation's defense and promote unity among its citizens. So, we must carefully weigh the pros and cons before implementing such a system that affects the lives of many individuals.
According to a report by the NIH, compulsory military service has a significant and enduring detrimental impact on physical health. Furthermore, individuals who are conscripted into the armed forces are prone to increased alcohol and cigarette consumption, even long after their discharge.
The answer to this question is subjective and can differ depending on one's beliefs and values. Some may argue that a military draft is necessary for national security and promoting unity. In contrast, others may view it as an infringement on personal freedoms and the potential for abuse of power.
Some negative consequences of the military draft include infringement on personal freedom, the physical and emotional toll on individuals, the strain on government resources, the potential for abuse, and the risk of not selecting competent soldiers. Additionally, implementing a draft can also lead to lower morale and effectiveness among troops. It may also create division and resentment within society if some view the draft as unfair or unjust.
To address the negative consequences of military draft, governments can consider implementing measures such as providing support for mental and physical health services for soldiers, ensuring fair and equitable selection processes, and promoting transparency in the draft system. They can also provide education and job training opportunities to help individuals transition back into civilian life after completing their service.
