The National Assembly of Azerbaijan is reportedly planning to make changes to several laws related to military service, including the “Law on the Status of Military Service,” “Law on the Regulation of Military Service,” “Law on Labor Service,” and “Law on Military Duty and Military Service.” The proposed changes have been presented by Milli Mejlis and are expected to strengthen the country’s defense capabilities, as reported by Turan.

One of the proposed changes is to increase the minimum age for military service from 20 to 25 years. Additionally, there are plans to extend the age limit for reserve service. Under the proposal, personnel of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces would serve in the active phase until certain age groups, such as 36.5 years for conscripted military service and 48 years for contracted military service, reservists, and middle-aged personnel.

The current legislation sets the age limits at 37 and 45 years for personnel of contracted military service, with an age limit of 45 for reservists and middle-aged personnel exceeding this period. In an effort to meet the needs of military service, it is also suggested to increase the percentage of additional fees for extending the minimum period of service from 60% to 65%. The Ministry of Defense (MoD) states that these changes will improve recruitment effectiveness and strengthen the defense capabilities of military personnel.

According to military expert Uzeyir Jafarov, the demand to increase the minimum period of service by 5 years is inappropriate. Jafarov argues that those advocating for the change have distanced themselves from the military field, and neglect the fact that physical abilities tend to decrease with longer service. In Jafarov’s opinion, it is reasonable for a person to serve for 20 years, but an additional 5 years may result in a decline in physical health. He emphasizes the importance of providing servicemen with the money they have earned for their service, considering the potential impact on their health.

The report concludes by criticizing policymakers who, in agreement with conscripts, turned military personnel into laborers through the adoption of the “Law on Military Service.” The report suggests that these policymakers place undue burdens on military personnel without considering their well-being.