A new legislative proposal by the Armenian government aims to amend the Law on Military Service and the Status of Servicemen to encourage the return of Armenian citizens who studied at top global universities. Under the draft law, those who complete studies at leading institutions and commit to working for at least three years in Armenia in a government-designated field will be exempt from mandatory military service.

The bill was introduced in its first reading by Minister of Education, Science, Culture and Sports Zhanna Andreasyan, 1lurer.am reports.

Andreasyan said this initiative is part of broader efforts to shape and direct human capital for national development. Since 2018, Armenian citizens enrolled in universities ranked in the top 50 of the Shanghai ranking have been eligible for military deferment. To date, over 600 citizens have used this opportunity, with 570 still studying.

However, a review showed that most of those who completed their education have not returned to Armenia, meaning their acquired skills and knowledge are not contributing to the country’s public or economic development.

The proposed changes would require these individuals to return and work in Armenia for three years in a sector identified by the government. Only then would they be granted exemption from military service.

Andreasyan emphasized that the initiative is based on a clear principle: those who overcome barriers to study at world-class universities on their own should be incentivized to return and apply their expertise for Armenia’s benefit.

“This way, we both ensure their return and channel their skills into the sectors where they are most needed,” she said.

Deputy Speaker of Parliament Ruben Rubinyan, who also studied at a top-ranked university, participated in the discussion. He noted that most of his fellow alumni have not returned to Armenia, despite the country's need for their expertise.

“This law has strategic significance, ensuring not only the retention of talent but also the effective use of their knowledge for Armenia’s advancement,” Rubinyan said.