By Journalist Sameh Selim: Conscription… Became An Urgent Necessity

Journalist Sameh Selim

Conscription… Became An Urgent Necessity

By: Journalist Sameh Selim
Member of the American Press Agency

The current global conditions are imposing a new reality on nations around the world, particularly in light of successive conflicts—from the Russia-Ukraine war, to the Gaza war, and the escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. These developments have revealed profound shifts in the global balance of power.

With the rise of military tensions and divisions, and the increasing dominance of political and economic interests, it has become evident that the international system is experiencing instability. There is a noticeable decline in adherence to established international laws and norms, with frequent violations. In this context, military power has become a fundamental pillar for maintaining stability and securing national interests.

Today’s conflicts are driven by multiple factors, including disputes over water resources, as seen in the Horn of Africa, competition over strategic straits and maritime routes, and struggles for control of natural resources such as oil, gold, and rare minerals. These dynamics reflect the complex nature of our time, where geopolitics intersects with economic security.

Amid these challenges, the importance of strengthening military capabilities is growing—not only for major powers but also for countries that had long adopted pacifist policies following World War II. One of the most significant expressions of national sovereignty in this regard is the renewed discussion of mandatory military conscription.

Several countries, including Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United States, have begun revisiting this issue—whether directly or indirectly—in an effort to enhance military readiness and build forces capable of keeping pace with rapid technological advancements in defense.

This comes at a time when the world is witnessing both overt and covert conflicts over critical issues such as water, energy, strategic islands, maritime corridors, and ports. Notable examples where diplomacy has struggled to achieve resolution include the Kuril Islands dispute between Japan and Russia, and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) crisis, which poses significant risks to water resources for Egypt and Sudan.

In a rapidly changing world marked by escalating challenges, reliance on diplomacy alone is no longer sufficient. Strengthening military capabilities—including reconsidering mandatory conscription—has become a strategic necessity to ensure national security and safeguard state interests.