A military bishop has given his support to proposals by the Austrian Government to extend mandatory military service, citing the need for adequate training and the changing security situation in Europe.

The plans, under Austria’s coalition Government, would see military service extended from six to nine months.

Bishop Werner Freistetter of the Austrian Military Diocese told Kathpress that the plans were an “important and practical step forward”.

He said: “The changed security situation in Europe leaves us no time for delays. The security of our country and the well-being of those who serve the community must be the focus.”

"We know painfully from the history of war that poorly trained soldiers bear the highest risk in an emergency. Anyone who calls young people into the service of national defence must train them in such a way that they are protected in the best possible way and capable of acting."

The country also plans to implement a reservist model, which would require conscripts to carry out follow-up exercises within 10 years of service and would come with increased pay and holiday allowance. Bishop Freistetter said the move was “long overdue” and a sign of “appreciation for the commitment of our recruits”.

The bishop said: “The military chaplaincy will continue to support the conscripts as an independent, confidential support and accompany them through this phase of life. Our pastors are contact persons when orientation is sought, restlessness arises or the pressure of everyday service burdens."

Speaking at a press conference at a military barracks outside Salzburg, Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker told reporters that the developments “show clearly that Austria ​must take charge to a greater extent of its own capabilities for self-reliance and protection of the population”.

He said: "The ​security conditions have changed fundamentally in the past years, months and weeks. The dream of a lasting peace ​in Europe shattered at the latest with the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine.”

Austrian men can currently choose between military service and a civilian alternative, such as working in retirement homes or with an emergency service.

The move comes as part of a broader European remilitarisation spurred by the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This month, Switzerland changed its compulsory military service laws to include ministers of religion.

The change in the law, which requires the service of priests and Religious brothers, drew criticism as the Swiss army stated that their work was no longer an “essential activity for the maintenance of social life”.

Swiss broadcaster RTS reported that nine people have already been affected by the new law, including Religious brothers living in community, despite the Swiss army justifying the move by arguing that many priests fulfil their obligation before ordination.