Fewer young people fail to report for Estonia’s military service

The number of young people failing to report for compulsory military service in Estonia has declined in recent years, with only 2% of those called up failing to appear last year, ERR reports.

Sixty-three conscripts did not report last year. The Estonian Defence Resources Agency said the share was 4% in 2024 and 6.6% in 2023.

People who repeatedly fail to attend a medical assessment without a valid reason may receive an official order and a coercive fine. The current maximum fine for missing an assessment is 640 euros. It depends on the circumstances, and the agency said it aims to secure compliance using the smallest possible fine. Paying the fine does not remove the obligation to attend.

From next year, the maximum fine will rise to 1,280 euros. The agency can impose fines repeatedly and, if they are insufficient, ask a court to suspend a person’s driving rights or fishing, hunting or firearms permits. This year, it has asked a court to suspend driving rights in 57 cases. The agency said these measures are not a first step, and that young people generally attend once they understand the possible consequences of failing to meet their obligations.

The agency said it has also made its procedures more flexible and personalised. Health records are first reviewed digitally, and young people can choose a suitable time and place for their assessment. An invitation to a medical assessment does not automatically mean a person has been called up for military service; the timing and place of service are decided after the assessment.