France launches 10-month voluntary national military service recruitment

France has begun a campaign to enrol young people in a 10-month voluntary national military service. The program is open to citizens aged 18–25 and offers positions in the army, navy, or air force.

Starting in September, 3,000 recruits will carry out assignments across the country, including disaster relief and various military roles, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

By 2030, annual recruitment is expected to reach 10,000 participants.

Participants will receive around €800 per month and may choose to join the reserves, transition to civilian life, or continue a career in the armed forces after completing their service. 

The program is budgeted at €150 million in 2026 and €2.3 billion for the period from 2026 to 2030.

The initiative was announced by President Emmanuel Macron in November 2025.

By Jeyhun Aghazada