The health condition among volunteers in Latvia’s National Defence Service (VAD) is generally better than that of those conscripted through mandatory selection, and most leading health issues are of a psychological nature, said Kristers Grauze, Head of the VAD Department at the Ministry of Defence, in an interview with Latvian Television’s “Rīta Panorāma”.
He acknowledged that several dozen individuals selected through mandatory conscription have submitted requests to postpone their service. The reasons vary—some are studying abroad, some are currently living or working abroad, and others cite family circumstances. He noted that long-term employment or studies abroad are valid reasons for deferring service.
Grauze encouraged young people to inform authorities if there are reasons to postpone service.
“Do not stay silent or delay. Submit the information—we will contact you and find a solution,” he urged.
For the July intake lasting until November, 782 young people applied voluntarily, which was not enough to meet the quota, so an additional 800 individuals were selected mandatorily.
The selection process will continue until mid-May, when the final conscription decisions will be issued. So far, 512 potential VAD soldiers have been selected, with a total target of 830 individuals. Grauze also mentioned that over 20 women have applied voluntarily, and female participation is gradually increasing.
Volunteer interest is growing every year, but so is the overall planned number of NDS recruits. This means random selection will remain a permanent feature of the conscription process, Grauze said.
When asked why the official government publication “Latvijas Vēstnesis” contains public notices about Ministry of Defence summonses for health checks, Grauze explained that in a recent case, 13 young individuals had no officially registered place of residence, and this was the only way to reach them.
The next VAD conscription is scheduled for late April. Grauze highlighted that the January intake will be very limited in number due to infrastructure capacity, meaning that there will be very few spots for volunteers.
“I urge all young people to stay informed and apply as early as possible,” he said.