Russian President directs implementation of modernized military conscription system

Russian President Vladimir Putin has instructed the Ministry of Defense to execute military conscription between October and December 2024 using the unified register of military service and electronic agencies, as per official instructions.

According to Putin’s decree, the responsibility for conscription lies with Minister of Defense Sergei Shoigu and Minister of Digital Development, Communications, and Mass Communications of Russia, Maksut Shadayev. Their task is to facilitate citizen registration for military service without physical presence at the commissariat and to prepare and send electronic notifications to the intended recipients.

In April 2023, Putin signed amendments introducing electronic notifications and a unified register of military service. Electronic notifications in Russia now hold the same status as traditional notifications. The notice is deemed delivered seven days after being posted in the subpoena register, regardless of acknowledgment. 

 

Company management is obligated to deliver subpoenas to servicemen. Failure to report to the military commissariat following notification may result in administrative consequences.

The initial timeline anticipated the launch of the electronic register in Russia by the conclusion of 2023.

Currently, Russia is conducting its autumn conscription for compulsory military service. Last year, conscription was deferred due to mobilization efforts. Analysts suggest that organizing simultaneous conscriptions for recruits and mobilized individuals may pose challenges, diminishing the likelihood of a new wave of mobilization before the conclusion of the fall conscription.

Government statements assert that recruits will not be deployed to the front lines. However, starting this year, recruits have the option to enter into a contract with the Ministry of Defense from the commencement of their military service.