STtjänstgöring

STtjänstgöring is a Swedish term that translates to "military service" or "conscription" in English. Historically, it referred to the compulsory military service that was required of all Swedish men. This system was in place for many decades, with citizens called upon to serve in the Swedish Armed Forces for a specified period. The duration and nature of the service varied over time, but it was a fundamental part of Swedish society and defense.

In recent decades, Sweden moved away from conscription. The system was gradually phased out, and by 2010, it was completely abolished. Instead, Sweden transitioned to an all-volunteer force, relying on professional soldiers and recruits who voluntarily sign up for service. This shift aimed to create a more modern and specialized military.

However, in response to a changing geopolitical landscape, Sweden reintroduced conscription in 2017. This renewed system, while still called STtjänstgöring, differs from its historical predecessor. It is gender-neutral, meaning both men and women can be called up for service, although the number of conscripts is significantly smaller than in the past and is based on the needs of the armed forces. The reintroduced service focuses on specific roles and requirements within the military. The purpose of reinstating conscription was to ensure a sufficient number of trained personnel for national defense and to strengthen Sweden's overall security posture.