Minister Vengu presents the draft law for the Reserve Force to the Parliamentary Security Committee

Published: Monday, 16 December 2024 13:34

Defense Minister Pirro Vengu today presented the draft law "On the Organization and Functioning of the Reserve Force in the Republic of Albania" to the National Security Committee in Parliament.
In his speech to the committee, Minister Vengu explained that the aim of the initiative is to complete the structure of the military reserve service within the Albanian Armed Forces, ensuring a high level of readiness and increasing defense capabilities to successfully carry out missions. He also stressed that the law seeks to regulate the rights, duties, and responsibilities of citizens, state institutions, and private entities involved in the recruitment and service of the reserve forces.

He further emphasized that the initiative is aligned with the government’s broader goals, noting that it will help build a modern reserve force that meets NATO standards, with the intention of increasing its size to 20% of the active forces. According to the long-term development plan for the Armed Forces, the number of reserve personnel is expected to reach around 2,100, unless changing security conditions require an increase.
Minister Vengu pointed out that the recent changes in the security environment, as well as future challenges, highlight the need for Albania to fully utilize the capabilities and synergies of its active forces. At the same time, he stressed the importance of developing an integrated reserve force with new, clearly defined roles and tasks.

Under the proposed law, the duration of service as a reservist will range from 14 to 45 days per year, although this could be extended in cases where specialized training or participation in international military operations (such as those led by the UN, NATO, or the EU) is required, or for involvement in humanitarian missions or civil emergency operations. The law also sets specific age limits for eligibility: soldiers must be under 50, non-commissioned officers under 55, and officers under 60.

Those wishing to join the reserve force will sign a contract for a minimum of two years, with the option to renew. During their service, employers, both public and private, are obligated to grant leave without hindrance, acknowledging the critical public service role reservists play.
The government plans to allocate an initial budget of 1.69 billion ALL to activate 2,100 reservists, covering costs for weapons, tactical equipment, individual kits, and uniforms. The total cost of implementing the reserve component is estimated at 2.62 billion ALL.

Minister Vengu concluded by stressing that this initiative is a vital step in strengthening Albania's defense capabilities and ensuring its ability to meet both national and international security obligations.