Ukraine Has Found A Way To Recruit More Motivated Soldiers Into The Army

• 14.10.2026, 16:17

Recruitment efficiency increased by 110%.

Ukraine is overhauling its military recruitment system, focusing on motivated volunteers, the ability to choose a unit, and clear terms of service. This experience could help NATO countries that are struggling to recruit and retain military personnel, writes expert Olesya Goryainova for CEPA.

Since 2024, the Ukrainian army has been developing a decentralized recruitment system. Instead of being assigned to specific units, recruits can choose a brigade based on the unit’s specialization, the reputation of its commanders, and the conditions of service. Service members also have the opportunity to sign contracts with clearly defined terms, higher pay, and a guaranteed deferral from mobilization upon completion of their service.

According to the Ukrainian Center for Security and Cooperation, when choosing a place of service, 44% of respondents primarily consider the reliability of the commander and the unit, while 34% want to understand their duties in advance. The Center has helped partner units increase their recruitment by 110%.

The system is also expanding opportunities for women. Currently, 75,000 women serve in the Ukrainian Armed Forces, more than 55,000 of whom are military personnel. Specialists in drones, intelligence, electronic warfare, and communications are in particularly high demand.

A telling example is 18-year-old Dmytro from the Kharkiv region, who, after experiencing the Russian occupation, decided to join the 151st Separate Mechanized Brigade. A video on social media helped him choose his unit.

“I liked it; it piqued my interest. That’s how I chose where to serve,” he said.

Ukraine’s experience shows that flexible recruitment, trust in commanders, and opportunities for professional development help attract people even in the midst of a full-scale war. These approaches could also prove useful for the armies of NATO countries.