Quote Originally Posted by ibshambat
An estimated 5,000 recruits a year die as a result of the military hazing,
5000 dead a year? Surely not in Russia alone. I don't believe that. Where are you getting your figures from?

Quote Originally Posted by Eric C.
I've always wondered why a person can't choose on his own whether to sign up or not.
Russia is not the only country that has this system. (conscription). It's very common across the world. If you look at the history of Europe, you can see why it was necessary; particularly for Russia - which has been a "favourite" place to try to invade throughout the centuries.

Assuming there is no bullying, many people say it can be quite good for some guys to do military service. They grow up a bit during this period. For example, ALL guys I went to school with, did it for a year. They got tested, to see what type of assignment would suit the person. Some of the jobs were reasonably interesting, I think.

But the system is not very good or efficient, so those countries that do not feel directly threatened are trying to get away from it. In a modern war, it is better to have a professional hi-tech and slick army with top equipment (like the USA or Britain) than simply a very large army.

If you plan to USE your army, that is.... America and Britain for instance, DO use their militaries. Some countries are in a tense situation and have no choice but use conscription to make sure the army is the right size that's needed to protect the country.

Is there debate about stopping conscription in Russia?

One of the most popular books on Russia in the the UK, is Anna Politskaya's book (forgotten the name). Bullying in the military is an issue that she raises - it seems pretty clear that it causes a lot of problems.