allvolunteer

Allvolunteer, in common usage, refers to systems or organizations that rely entirely on voluntary participation rather than compulsory service. The term is most often applied to military forces, but it can also describe non-profit, civil service, or disaster-relief programs that are staffed exclusively by volunteers. In military contexts, an all-volunteer force (AVF) replaces conscription with recruitment and incentives aimed at attracting individuals who choose to serve on their own.

In the United States, the shift to an all-volunteer armed forces occurred in the late 20th century, with the draft being ended and a professional, career-oriented military built around voluntary enlistment. Proponents argue that AVFs enhance readiness, expertise, and morale by preserving a stable force of volunteers who commit to long-term service. Critics discuss higher recruiting and retention costs, potential recruitment disparities, and concerns about who bears the burden of service in societies that rely on voluntary enlistment.

Globally, many Western and NATO-aligned countries transitioned to all-volunteer forces during the same period, though some maintain forms of selective conscription or reserve-based forces for crisis or emergency needs. In non-military sectors, all-volunteer models are common in charities, community organizations, and humanitarian work, where participation depends on personal choice rather than statutory obligation.

See also: draft, conscription, all-volunteer force, volunteerism, veteran care.