Taiwan faces growing concern as early discharges among volunteer soldiers rise, threatening military readiness. According to the Legislative Yuan’s Budget Center, nearly a quarter of volunteers recruited between 2021 and 2024 requested early discharge. In total, 12,884 of 52,674 volunteers returned NT$895.96 million (US$28.86 million) to the government.
The trend has risen steadily. In 2021, only 521 volunteers left early. By 2023, the number increased to 1,104, and last year it reached 1,072. As of June 2025, 430 soldiers applied for early discharge, a 90 percent increase compared with the same period in 2021.
This surge comes amid declining recruitment. Taiwan has repeatedly missed volunteer recruitment targets since 2021, when enlistment rates spiked 105.34 percent. Analysts warn that high attrition could weaken military morale and operational capacity.
Retired Air Force Lieutenant General Chang Yan-ting called the trend alarming. He said soldiers leave due to heavy workload pressures. Chang urged the Ministry of National Defense to reform workloads rather than focus only on weapons procurement.
Observers also highlight understaffing risks. Blogger Drifting Island emphasized that understanding the reasons behind early discharges is crucial. Dissatisfaction with wages or benefits, poor management, inadequate training, or fear of conflict could all play a role.
Early discharges could undermine Taiwan’s defense strategy. Military effectiveness relies on trained personnel and morale, not just advanced equipment. Experts suggest conducting detailed assessments to identify causes of attrition and implement targeted retention policies.
Officials are considering future steps. These may include adjusting training programs, revising schedules, improving benefits, and offering incentives to retain volunteers. Addressing the root causes is essential to maintain operational readiness.
The report highlights the urgency of tackling early discharges. Immediate action is needed to sustain the military’s long-term resilience and national defense capabilities.
