Universal conscription, also known as mandatory military service, is a policy that requires all eligible citizens of a certain age to serve in the military for a specific period of time.
Think of universal conscription like a school's compulsory physical education class. Just as every student has to participate in PE regardless of their personal interests or abilities, every citizen in a country with universal conscription must serve in the military, regardless of their career aspirations or personal beliefs.
Selective Service System: This is an independent agency of the United States government that maintains information on those potentially subject to military conscription (draft).
Draft Lottery: A system used by countries with mandatory military service where individuals are randomly selected for enlistment.
Conscientious Objector: An individual who has claimed the right to refuse to perform military service on the grounds of freedom of thought, conscience, or religion.
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