The Barcelona Reporter released details of the Spanish governments renewal of it's conscription program. It reported that 'as of September 2016, all citizens, upon reaching the age of 16, will be drafted into the Spanish Army'. The release has sparked outrage amongst Spanish Human Rights groups who were stated to be 'in the process of organising mass demonstrations at this abhorrent turnaround in policy'.
Conscription had been abolished in Spain in 2001 after 230 years.
The Ministerio de Defensa was quick to issue a statement, outlining what this means for the youth of Spain. Carme Chacón, the returning minister of defence, was quick to point out that unemployment levels in Spanish youth were set to reach an all time high by the end of 2016 and this was indicative of a systemic failure to invest in the countries future. It was further mentioned that the period of enrolment would last for 3 years upon which the military would fund all individuals if they wished to attend University or pursue more vocational qualifications.
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[–] DarthPeaDoughBare [S] ago
[M] thanks for the feedback! In answer to the objections:
The Spanish government see this as an investment. With current youth unemployment rates at 49% any lowering of this figure would have a major impact on taxation levels. Essentially it is seen as a system that will pay for itself in the long run.
Good shout on the age, it may be worthwhile only introducing this to those who are unemployed as an incentive for them to find work upon leaving college so around age 18 as you say.
Yes, both males and females will be eligible.
Those currently in college will have the option to sign up regardless of employment opportunities. As it won't come into effect until December, those already at University (September/October admission) will be exempt for the duration but will also be able to defer their studies to join the scheme thus ensuring a refocused attempt at University upon exiting the program.
It's a very good question, the info suggests there are around 2 million 20-24 year olds and the same in the 15-19 age range, I've also seen figures suggesting around 1.9 million out of work under 30 year olds so any help nailing those figures down would be appreciated!
Again thanks for the reply :-)
[–] Boukert 0 points 1 point 1 point (+1|-0) ago
your welcome for the reply, feel free to be critic against other players here as well. We all make this game great together.
So basically allocating funds from unemployed benefits to military.
ok
ok
ok
so around 2,5 million 18-24 year old. and 50% of these have a job or are studying. so 1,25 million unemployed Spaniards under 25.
I propose you change it from conscription to a voluntary campaign , with strong incentive for unemployed youths below 25 (maybe threaten to cut benefits). This will save you a lot of unrest and possible migration of youths to EU countries)
We could roll on the success rate of the campaign.
[–] DarthPeaDoughBare [S] ago
Is it worth editing this post or starting anew?