Kuwait introduces mandatory military service for 18-year-old male citizens
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Kuwait has introduced new amendments to its civil service laws mandating military service for 18-year-old male citizens, effective immediately. Under the updated legislation, all male citizens are required to present themselves for military service within 180 days of turning 18. The rule applies to individuals born on or after January 1, 2012.
Authorities stated that the measure aims to strengthen Kuwait’s national defense framework, address existing capability gaps, and enhance individual readiness among young citizens. In addition to the service requirement, the amendments introduce new employment conditions within the public sector. Applicants for government positions will now be required to submit a valid military service certificate as part of their documentation.
Candidates who have completed or fulfilled their military obligations will be given preference in public sector recruitment, reinforcing the link between national service and civic responsibility. The move signals a renewed emphasis on defense preparedness and institutional alignment between military service and civil employment pathways in Kuwait.
