Economist Podcasts The Intelligence: Your country needs you!
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Apr 18, 2024 Matt Steinglass, Deputy Europe editor for The Economist, dives into the pressing issue of military recruitment challenges across Europe. He discusses the potential revival of conscription in light of rising geopolitical tensions and contrasts it with the experiences of Nordic countries. The conversation also shifts to evolving domestic dynamics, highlighting how remote work is changing traditional gender roles, particularly with the rise of 'remote husbands.' Additionally, they explore the cultural sophistication and unique hunting strategies of killer whales, showcasing their remarkable intelligence.
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DINIAR Program Observations
- Matt Steinglass observed young Dutch recruits participating in the DINIAR service year program.
- Recruits found the program challenging but enjoyable, indicating potential benefits of military structure.
European Recruitment Challenges
- Despite the DINIAR's success, Dutch armed forces still face recruitment challenges, mirroring a broader European trend.
- One in ten positions are vacant despite the Netherlands' smaller military compared to the Cold War era.
Aversion to Fighting
- Young people's aversion to fighting, even in defensive wars, contributes to recruitment difficulties.
- A global survey reveals low enthusiasm for fighting, with varying percentages across countries like Germany, Japan, and the Netherlands.