Italy: opinion on reintroduction of compulsory civilian service 2017
Italy had mandatory military service, for men only, until 31 December 2004. The right to conscientious objection was legally recognized in 1972 so that a "non-armed military service", or a community service, could be authorized as an alternative to those who required it. The Italian Parliament approved the suspension of the mandatory military service in August 2004, with effect starting from 1 January 2005.