At the turn of the year, compensation for Swedish conscripts will increase for the first time since 2017. According to Pliktrådet, which represents those subject to total defense service, the raise is not sufficient.
Sweden's government plans to raise compensation for those undergoing conscript service, with the change taking effect at the turn of the year. This marks the first adjustment since 2017, following years without changes to the amounts.
Pliktrådet, the organization representing the country's total defense conscripts, has voiced criticism regarding the extent of the increase. They argue that the amounts remain too low to cover the costs incurred by conscripts during their service.
"You shouldn't go broke defending your country," says Alice Westlund, chair of Pliktrådet. She emphasizes the need for compensation to reflect actual expenses, such as lost income and other related costs.
The background to the raise stems from a review of the defense budget, but exact figures for the new compensation have not been specified in available information. Pliktrådet calls for further improvements to ensure that service does not become a financial burden for those contributing to the nation's defense.
