The issue of recruiting all 18 year-old young men in the army is topical again

“Aravot” daily writes, “Defense Minister Vigen Sargsyan touched upon the possibility of service of women in the army during the discussion of Government’s action plan in the NA. This plan, as well as that of recruiting all 18 year-old young men instigated heated discussions among the public. It has been discussed in social networks as well.

That draft bill on postponement was submitted to the Parliament by the then Defense Minister Vazgen Sargsyan, which instigated a conflict.

Currently the issue is topical again. PM Karen Karapetyan didn’t give a clear reply in that regard, saying there are two opinions—providing postponement in higher educational institution or not.

In this regard “Aravot” interviewed Koryun Nahapetyan, President of the Standing Committee of Defense, National Security and Internal Affairs.

“We have discussed that issue in the Committee, and there was a position that at this stage it’s not appropriate to implement it. In that period there wasn’t mutual agreement as well. As for the existent situation, I consider, we’ll reflect to that issue within new legislative initiative. At this stage some work is implemented in the Defense Ministry. Initial observations are already available, there is even an idea to develop draft Military Code, where military relations will be regulated,” he said.

Koryun Nahapetyan also stated that by the end of the year he’ll introduce his position in this issue. He also said he has always been against that idea. Regarding service of women in the army, Koryun Nahapetyan is sure, that there is misunderstanding by the society,

“Compulsory conscription isn’t being touched upon. Currently number of women in the armed forces is small as well.”