It is a debate many hoped would never be revived after the fog of war lifted: compulsory military conscription.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has triggered several European governments to discuss or reinstate mandatory military service for the first time in decades.

NATO countries are now expected to meet the target of spending 5 per cent of annual GDPs on defence by 2035 as "profound security threats and challenges" threaten the EU.

This ambitious target has generated an EU-wide drive to increase and fortify militaries.

Germany's government this past week torpedoed a plan to bring back its formerly-abolished system of mandatory conscription following a government stoush over the issue.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz had advocated for bringing back compulsory service because he wante

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