Jan 18, 2025 - Albania has enacted a new law allowing any eligible individual to join its Reserve Force, effective from the beginning of 2025. The law, approved in December last year, aims to expand the Reserve Force to make up 20% of the active military, increasing the total number of personnel by around 2,100 within the next 5-6 years.
The Minister of Defence, Pirro Vengu, explained in Parliament that the new force would be deployed in both military and humanitarian missions, both domestically and internationally. "This service will offer operational flexibility and enable rapid mobilization during crises or emergencies," he said.
The law sets the maximum age for recruits at 50 for soldiers and sailors, 55 for non-commissioned officers, and 60 for officers. Reserve service will last between 14 to 45 days annually, with possible extensions for specialized training or international missions under NATO or UN leadership.
Bardhyl Kollçaku, former Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, argued that the law addresses the new global security challenges and is essential for enhancing Albania’s military capacity in the face of rising threats.
However, some experts have raised concerns about the feasibility of older recruits being operationally effective. Security expert Redon Qiriazi questioned the practicality of including individuals aged 55-60 in active operations, particularly in complex international missions. "Age could impact operational capability," he stated.
The law also opens the door for the reinstatement of mandatory military service, which was abolished in 2010. While some support this move, arguing it could prepare the population for widespread threats, others worry about the lack of infrastructure to accommodate new recruits.
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