SAC Announces Mandatory Conscription Law

The SAC formally announced activation of the People's Military Service Law on February 10, 2024, requiring mandatory military service for men aged 18–35 and women aged 18–27 for two years. The law — written in 2010 but never previously enforced — was activated as junta troop losses mounted. Penalties for evasion include 3–5 years imprisonment and fines. The announcement triggered a mass exodus of young people from Myanmar, with thousands fleeing to Thailand, India, and China to evade conscription.