Argentina Announces Voluntary Military Service Scheme for Youths

Argentina has announced the reintroduction of voluntary military service for youth aged 18-28, confirmed by Presidential Spokesman Manuel Adorni. The program focuses on instilling military values and providing practical skills in areas such as cooking and mechanics. The Defence and Human Capital Ministries will oversee the implementation, ensuring that participants receive education and training. Eligibility includes citizenship and educational requirements, offering benefits like social security and certification upon completion.

In a significant policy move, Argentina has initiated a new voluntary military service program aimed at youth aged 18 to 28. This initiative was officially announced by Presidential Spokesman Manuel Adorni during a press briefing held in conjunction with Army Day last Thursday. The program promises training in specific fields like cooking, workshop mechanics, and guard duty, ensuring that participants gain tangible skills.

Adorni emphasized the importance of instilling foundational values within the military, citing characteristics such as valor, discipline, and a deep love for the nation. He stated, “The lofty values which always characterised the Armed Forces should be inculcated… Voluntary Military Service will encourage and certify the volunteers in concrete skills.”

Oversight of this program will be shared between the Defence Ministry, led by Luis Petri, and the Human Capital Ministry, headed by Sandra Pettovello. This move follows the announcement made earlier this year that aimed to provide opportunities for young Argentines wishing to serve their country. Adorni highlighted that educational programs will be tailored to ensure that all volunteers can fulfill their compulsory education requirements, saying, “Whoever serves the country should also have the tools to do so with dignity.”

The structure of the voluntary military service aims to bolster responses to emergencies, including disaster situations like floods and fires. Adorni mentioned plans to extend and enhance the initial weeks of military training to encompass various defense tasks. He remarked, “All who feel the sacred flame of representing our [armed] forces and serving the fatherland are welcome.”

On social media platform X, Petri shared his sentiments, stating, “In the government of President Javier Milei we are working on the present of our youth to improve their future… we will improve voluntary military service with integral and modern training.” He further noted that education during this service will be comprehensive, ensuring that soldiers receive the training they need.

Petri outlined eligibility requirements for interested participants, which include being an Argentine citizen, either by birth or by choice, and having completed at least seventh grade. Applicants must also pass psychological and physical evaluations along with an admission course. Notably, the service ensures that participants will receive social security benefits, life insurance, and certification of acquired skills, with their time in service counting towards pension contributions as well.

Argentina’s introduction of a voluntary military service scheme aims to equip young citizens with essential skills while promoting national values. This initiative is designed to foster a sense of duty among the youth, provide educational opportunities, and enhance emergency response capabilities. With clear criteria and a focus on modern training, the program represents a proactive approach to both military and civilian development in the nation.

Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar