Government to discuss amendment increasing recruitment contribution and benefits for soldiers

A proposed amendment aims to enhance recruitment efforts and retain personnel in the Czech army. The changes include higher recruitment bonuses and benefits for soldiers, relaxed criminal record requirements for enlistment, and a new obligation for soldiers to report travel outside EU and NATO countries. The Ministry of Defense estimates the annual cost of these measures at 375 million crowns, which it plans to cover within its existing budget without seeking additional funding.

According to the Ministry of Defense, the amendment is vital for addressing staffing shortages and ensuring the army can fulfill its service obligations. The ministry is pushing for accelerated approval in the Chamber of Deputies, hoping to pass the law in its first reading and implement it by July 2025.

The amendment also introduces a lump-sum recruitment allowance and raises benefits for serving soldiers, including stabilization, housing, and service-abroad allowances. While the basic stabilization allowance will remain at 7,000 crowns per month, it could increase up to tenfold for specialized roles or activities.

As of early 2024, the army comprised 27,826 professional soldiers and 4,266 active reserve members. Plans aim to increase these numbers to 30,000 professionals and 10,000 reservists by 2030.