Starting from 2026, Estonia will only call up conscripts for compulsory military service who have achieved at least B1 level proficiency in the Estonian language. Those without this proficiency can postpone their military service until age 28. This change aims to improve the effectiveness of compulsory service by ensuring better communication and unit cohesion. The Defense Committee of the Estonian parliament resolved this policy change amid debates and opposition. The Defense Ministry stated that the language requirement will not significantly reduce overall conscript numbers. The law changes were originally vetoed by the president but adjustments were made to streamline conscription and enhance military readiness. This policy particularly affects non-Estonian-speaking minorities, concentrating conscripts by language proficiency.

Starting from 2026, Estonia will only call up conscripts for compulsory military service who have achieved at least B1 level proficiency in the Estonian language. Those without this proficiency can postpone their military service until age 28. This change aims to improve the effectiveness of compulsory service by ensuring better communication and unit cohesion. The Defense Committee of the Estonian parliament resolved this policy change amid debates and opposition. The Defense Ministry stated that the language requirement will not significantly reduce overall conscript numbers. The law changes were originally vetoed by the president but adjustments were made to streamline conscription and enhance military readiness. This policy particularly affects non-Estonian-speaking minorities, concentrating conscripts by language proficiency.