MODERN RECRUITMENT SYSTEMS IN THE ARMED FORCES: EXPERIENCE OF EUROPE, THE USA, AND PROSPECTS FOR UKRAINE

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive analysis
of modern military recruitment systems in the Armed
Forces of the European Union countries, the United
States, and the United Kingdom. It explores key
approaches to attracting military personnel, including
the widespread use of digital technologies to optimize
recruitment procedures, the implementation of
motivational programs to enhance the attractiveness
of military service, the integration of gender equality
principles, and the professionalization of personnel
training. The paper examines successful cases of
voluntary army staffing systems in France, Italy,
Poland, the USA, and the UK, highlighting how these
models are adapted to contemporary security
challenges. Special attention is paid to the role of
recruitment centers and the application of innovative
strategies to engage young citizens.
The study outlines the current state of
recruitment in Ukraine amid the full-scale war
initiated by the Russian Federation. It analyzes key
achievements, such as the activation of contract
enlistment, the digitalization of recruitment
procedures through national platforms, the reform of
Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Centers,
and the intensification of public information
campaigns. At the same time, critical challenges are
identified: corruption risks in recruitment structures, insufficient motivation among young people,
shortcomings in social security systems for
servicemen, and the lack of transparency in
mobilization procedures. The article emphasizes the
urgent need to complete ongoing reforms, implement
comprehensive motivational programs, and provide
robust social guarantees for military personnel.
The necessity for systematic legal research on
recruitment regulation in Ukraine is substantiated. It is proposed to develop a national concept for the advancement of recruitment based on the best international practices, adapted to the realities of wartime. Particular emphasis is placed on the need to harmonize Ukraine’s recruitment system with NATO and EU standards to strengthen the country's defense capabilities and support its Euro-Atlantic integration.

Keywords: Armed Forces of Ukraine, army professionalization, digitalization, gender equality, international experience, legal regulation, military service, mobilization, motivational programs, recruitment, reform, social guarantees.