Mandatory military service has been a subject of controversy over the past years. Some countries like South Korea adapted this type of community service to young Korean men in order for them to serve the country. Thailand, on the other hand, has their own drafting method where young men are given lots. These lots determine whether or not they would undergo service. In the Philippines, mandatory military service has not been implemented, although the idea of its implementation has been in question over the past years.
Military service has its advantages. By going through military exercises, young men may be able to stay fit and healthy. They may learn soft skills like discipline and patriotism to practical skills that would help them in combat or emergencies. They may learn not to panic when catastrophes happen and instead, they would know what to do. The country will also be able to ensure that there would be military reserves when possible disasters, such as terrorist attacks, happen.
However, military service also has its own downsides. The years in training, for example, would have been used for career experience. In Korea, for example, a person would give 18 to 21 months to the program instead of contributing to the country’s economy. With the service being mandatory, people may question their freedom as they would be forced to join the military. In the Philippines, controversies such as abuse of power to hazing has been considered key points against this mandatory service.
Having a mandatory military service is a good thing for countries. The experience alone would help develop character and discipline of the participants. However, this program would only be successful if it were implemented correctly. Abuses from superiors and corruption would weaken this program and waste the potential of those drafted. Therefore, proper implementation, relevant programs and trainings and suitable benefits when joining the military would be beneficial for both the country and the participants.