WASHINGTON, DC: While world events such as the war in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas conflict continue to evolve, concerns about the potential for a military draft in 2023 have arisen.
Understanding the historical context is essential. The United States has not resorted to a mandatory draft since 1973. Any reintroduction of the draft would necessitate congressional authorization, a response to national emergencies when the all-volunteer military may be insufficient to meet national defense requirements.
The Selective Service System, commonly referred to as the draft, mandates that almost all male US citizens and immigrants between the ages of 18 and 25 register with the government. This registration is a fundamental requirement for those within the specified age range, according to Military.com.
Military draft disinformation on social media
Reuters reported how a fabricated video that made its rounds on social media in October 2023 drew significant attention.
This video featured an AI-generated portrayal of President Joe Biden invoking the Selective Service Act, proclaiming, "Remember, you are not sending your sons and daughters to war. You are sending them to freedom."
Following the AI-generated section, right-wing commentator Jack Posobiec indulged in speculation, discussing the hypothetical scenario of President Biden initiating a draft.
In the aftermath of the fabricated video and accompanying commentary, social media became inundated with rumors and conjecture about an impending draft.
"Not a single student has offered to sign the draft to fight Joe Biden’s wars for him. Imagine that," one posted on X.
"Just wait until prescription shortages begin...GenZ, the most medicated generation in American history, will line up to enlist—to maintain their healthcare coverage and six plus scripts," another wrote.
"The world is inching closer to WW3. Biden could announce a draft very soon," a comment read.
"Every man, woman & Trans between (ages 18-41) will be required to service under Joe Biden military draft 'executive order'. Good Luck," someone else insisted.
"They CANNOT have my kids … under any circumstances…" another added.
The potential consequences of failing to register for the draft are significant, even though prosecutions for non-registration are exceedingly rare. Non-registration can lead to the denial of government benefits, including student aid and specific government jobs.
Deferments and exemptions to military draft
In the event of a draft, individuals might be eligible for deferments or exemptions based on various criteria. These criteria include marital status, educational commitments, and conscientious objections, allowing for legitimate avenues to address the concerns of those who may be affected.
The legal implications of not registering for the draft are substantial, with the offense being classified as a felony. No one has been prosecuted for this crime since 1986, but the potential consequences remain impactful. Failure to register by the age of 26 renders individuals ineligible to do so in the future, and government benefits can be denied to those who have not registered.
It's critical to understand that registration does not automatically translate to military induction. Various factors, including deferments for reasons like marriage or education, may apply. Medical or psychological reasons, conscientious objector status, or the option to enlist in specific branches or career fields could also affect one's service requirements.
In historical context, it's worth noting that during the Vietnam War, approximately 570,000 people were classified as draft dodgers for not reporting for induction as ordered. Of those, 210,000 were formally charged with violating the draft, with only 3,250 individuals serving jail time.
The circumstances have evolved considerably since then, given advancements in technology and surveillance, making it more challenging to evade the authorities.
At the time of publication, there is no evidence or official announcement of a military draft occurring in the United States. The Selective Service System, often referred to as "the draft," should be understood within the context of a potential response to a national emergency.
