Croatian conscription may fuel Balkan security dilemma

Significance

Officials justified the decision by pointing to a worsening European security landscape wrought by the war in Ukraine, but many observers see the move as part of Croatia’s perceived security rivalry with neighbouring Serbia.

Impacts

• Belgrade may look to buy French Rafale fighter jets during President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Serbia this week.
• The Serbian military will struggle to reform due to frequent political meddling.
• By proposing conscription, the ruling Croatian Democratic Union is likely playing to right-wing voters ahead of presidential elections.