Manama: Kuwaiti MPs are pushing for the reinstatement of the mandatory military draft, a local newspaper has said.
The lawmakers have decided to go ahead with a draft law that will make it compulsory for all male Kuwaitis to join the military service, Arrouiah daily reported on Monday.
Compulsory conscription was abolished in 2001 following an accord between the government and the parliament. The government then pledged to present a new law that would avoid the shortcomings in the former law and would enhance the capabilities of the Kuwaiti military and encourage young people to serve their nation.
The new legislation will not differ vastly from the former military draft law that had been applied for more than 20 years, but would include advantages for conscripts.
Media reports last year said that the military service would include all male Kuwaitis up to the age of 35 and would last nine months for those who hold a PhD, a Master's or a university degree and 12 months for the others.
Those serving under the flag will receive financial bonuses in addition to their salaries and will have to attend training sessions for two weeks every year.
Kuwaitis studying abroad or members of the diplomatic corps or the sole supporters of their parents will be exempted from the service.
Several Kuwaiti columnists have been writing in favour of the reinstatement of the military service, arguing that it would help reinvigorate patriotism and often citing Switzerland as a case to be emulated.
