Serbia Abolishes Compulsory Military Service

The obligation to serve in the Army of Serbia will end on January 1 next year, when the last soldiers mobilised in 2010 have completed their service, the government said in a statement on Thursday.

Voluntary service is to continue.

Experts say the decision, which has been forwarded to the Serbian parliament for consideration, will lead to the creation of an effective, professional armed force.

Military analyst Aleksandar Radic supported the government's decision, saying it was also necessary for the state to obtain modern equipment and weapons for a professional army.

He said it was necessary to pay professional soldiers adequately in order to maintain quality.