TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of National Defense (MND) reported a significant decline in the number of eligible conscripts and volunteer soldiers, attributing the trend to a combination of factors including a decreasing birthrate, the COVID-19 pandemic, and competitive job markets.
According to a recent report submitted to the Legislative Yuan, the number of men eligible for conscription has fallen below 100,000 for the first time this year and is projected to drop to 70,036 by 2031. Additionally, the volunteer force's manpower has been on a downward trend since 2022, with the current ratio of volunteers to positions dropping from 89% in 2020 to 80% in 2023.
Addressing the Challenges
The MND has outlined several measures to counteract these trends, including improving recruitment structures, increasing recruitment bonuses, and enhancing promotional efforts in schools and communities.
Despite these challenges, the ministry has achieved a retention rate of 78% this year, surpassing its target of 76%. The report also highlights that the main reasons for soldiers leaving service early include career planning (52.2%) and poor adaptation (27.1%), with younger soldiers, in particular, being more susceptible to external temptations due to better pay and conditions offered to military officers.
In response to the dual challenges of the pandemic and declining birth rates, the ministry plans to intensify guidance for recruits and improve working conditions to achieve its policy goal of retaining personnel for more extended periods. This strategy aims to ensure that the armed forces remain robust and capable of defending the nation despite demographic and health challenges.
The ministry's efforts to adapt to these changing conditions reflect a proactive approach to maintaining Taiwan's defense capabilities in an increasingly uncertain global environment.