Rival parties outline conscription plansListen to this articleThe People's Party (PP) and the Bhumjaithai Party (BJT) have placed military conscription reform at the forefront of their policy platforms, but while both emphasise voluntary service, their proposals differ in clarity, implementation and scale. BJT leader Anutin Charnvirakul earlier announced that his party would "end the conscription mindset" by transforming compulsory enlistment into a fully voluntary system. In contrast, the PP has unveiled a more detailed blueprint centred on abolishing conscription altogether, while still maintaining essential combat readiness. It plans to recruit at least 30,000 volunteers per year, each serving four years with the option to extend to eight. The party also pledges improved welfare and working conditions to make military service more appealing and professional.

Source: Bangkok Post December 26, 2025 05:55 UTC