Short on Strength: The Military Recruitment Crisis in Europecore
SOS · Horizon Europe grant · 2026-10-01–2031-09-30
EC contribution
Total cost
Beneficiaries
About the data
Source: CORDIS (official EU open data), Horizon Europe. Framework HORIZON · call ERC-2025-ADG · scheme HORIZON-ERC · topic ERC-2025-ADG. CORDIS record →
Objective
Short on Strength (SOS) examines the growing recruitment crisis facing European militaries. Despite rising security threats and higher defense budgets, many countries struggle to attract new personnel and retain those already serving. This dual challenge poses a pressing policy problem but also offers a unique opportunity to explore deeper political and social questions. Military service has long been central to the formation of modern states and the meaning of citizenship. Understanding why fewer Europeans are willing to serve provides insights into the evolving relationship between citizens, the state, and the armed forces.The project pursues five objectives: (1) developing a multi-level theoretical framework for military recruitment; (2) identifying military recruitment challenges across Europe; (3) documenting the demographic profile of military personnel; (4) analyzing the causes of the recruitment crisis; and (5) evaluating alternative service models, including conscription and the recruitment of foreign nationals.SOS adopts a comparative, multi-method design that combines large-N statistical analysis, online experiments, original surveys, document analysis, and interviews with military personnel. The project will generate original data, theoretical innovation, and actionable insights for policymakers seeking to design more sustainable and inclusive armed forces. In doing so, SOS will shed light not only on a critical defense challenge but also on broader transformations in European democracies.
Beneficiaries (1)
| Organisation | Country | Role | EC contribution | SME |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SCUOLA IMT (ISTITUZIONI, MERCATI, TECNOLOGIE) ALTI STUDI DI LUCCA | IT | coordinator | €1,936,963 |
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