Commentary: Is modifying National Service for Olympians good or bad? It’s too early to say

The unity principle of NS is likewise rooted in operating requirements, making sure that society as a whole perceives it as positively and prevents unhappiness from spreading over views of unfair treatment.

The truth is that every soldier in Singapore is important because, like some militaries around the world, the country’s armed forces are attempting to modernize by utilizing modern technologies to reduce their reliance on manpower. The government’s declining birth rates only add to this problem.

Recent political developments in Europe and the Middle East serve as a stark reminder that no nation can afford to overlook peace, safety, and security. In response to concerns about the spread of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, some nations in Europe are now reinstituting or expanding military conscription.

DRAWING THE LINE

In light of this, it’s not difficult to see how any specific care for a particular group of people, or even the perception of special treatment, could open a can of worms that would be difficult to treat.

Beyond basic dissatisfaction over some receiving preferred therapy, there will likely become inquiries as to why these protections are not extended to those who excel in various disciplines like the art, music, and education. All of these might reduce NS assistance.

A customized NS knowledge could also have the potential to produce a lose-lose situation with subpar outcomes for the performer and soldier.