Vietnam's Ministry of National Defense is proposing amendments to military conscription regulations, specifically targeting individuals who intentionally get tattoos to evade mandatory military service. While current rules already disqualify tattoos with objectionable content or those in highly visible areas, concerns have risen that some citizens are exploiting loopholes by getting easily removable or less offensive tattoos just before health examinations. The proposed revisions aim to ensure fairness and prevent avoidance of this "sacred duty," reflecting the authorities' commitment to upholding the integrity of the conscription process.
The Rise of a "Tattoo Loophole"
Military service is a compulsory and deeply ingrained civic duty for young men in Vietnam. However, authorities are increasingly concerned about a growing phenomenon: individuals intentionally getting tattoos to avoid conscription. The Ministry of National Defense (MoND) has acknowledged this issue and is now advocating for revisions to existing regulations to close what some perceive as a "tattoo loophole."
Reports indicate that some citizens, particularly before their military service examinations or after initial selection, are deliberately getting tattoos or even tattooed letters on their bodies with the sole purpose of disqualifying themselves from service. This act is seen by the MoND as an evasion of their "rights and obligations to the Fatherland."
Current Regulations and Their Limitations
Under current regulations, outlined in Joint Circular No. 50/2016 issued by the MoND and the Ministry of Public Security, certain types of tattoos already lead to disqualification:
Objectionable Content: Tattoos with content that opposes the regime, incites ethnic division, or are deemed grotesque, bizarre, sexually provocative, or violent are strictly prohibited.
Visible and Large Areas: Tattoos that are offensive and visible on exposed areas such such as the face, head, neck, from halfway down the upper arm, or from one-third down the thigh, are generally not allowed. Additionally, tattoos covering more than half of the back, chest, or abdomen are deemed unacceptable.
Permanent Pigmentation: The regulations primarily focus on tattoos and tattooed letters under the skin, implying permanent changes to skin pigmentation that cannot be erased.
However, the current rules also state that "Citizens with tattoos or tattoos that do not fall into the above cases or can be erased will still be considered for selection to serve in the military." It is this clause that some individuals are reportedly exploiting. They might opt for smaller, less offensive designs or temporary tattoos that are easily removable, hoping to pass the initial inspection but then have them disappear.
The Proposed Revisions: Ensuring Fairness and Discipline
To counter these evasive tactics, the MoND is directing relevant agencies to research and propose specific amendments to the regulations. The core aim is to ensure the strictness and fairness of the military service recruitment process. While specific details of the proposed amendments are still under review, they are expected to address:
Clearer Definitions: More precise definitions of what constitutes a disqualifying tattoo, potentially including criteria for size, number, and location even for less offensive content.
Removable Tattoos: Stricter guidelines or even a ban on individuals with easily removable tattoos if they appear to be used for evasion. The MoND has previously issued guidance distinguishing between permanent tattoos and temporary ones (pasted, sprayed, drawn), urging citizens to erase the latter.
Intent and Consequences: The proposals may also look into measures to address the intent behind getting tattoos. Vietnamese law already states that those who intentionally get tattoos to avoid military service may be prosecuted under the Crime of Evading Military Service, which can carry a penalty of up to 5 years in prison. The proposed amendments might reinforce this legal framework.
Ethical and Military Image: The overarching principle remains that tattoos should not affect the image, etiquette, and discipline of soldiers, nor the cultural environment within the military.
The move to revise these regulations reflects a broader commitment from the Vietnamese authorities to ensure that all eligible citizens fulfill their mandatory military obligations, maintaining the integrity and fairness of the conscription system. It also highlights the evolving social landscape in Vietnam, where tattoos are becoming more common, requiring the military to adapt its policies while upholding its core standards.