Constitutional and legal foundations of basic general military training for higher education students under martial law

The article is devoted to the theoretical and legal analysis of the constitutional foundations for implementing basic general military training for higher education students in Ukraine under martial law. Considering the constitutionally established duty of citizens to defend their homeland (Article 65 of the Constitution of Ukraine), the authors justify the necessity and timeliness of integrating the military component into the higher education system as a mechanism for fulfilling the state’s defense function. The study analyzes legislative and regulatory acts governing the procedure for conducting basic general military training, particularly the Law of Ukraine «On Military Duty and Military Service» and the Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 734 dated June 21, 2024. It is noted that the new regulation obliges male students in higher education institutions to undergo both theoretical and practical military training as part of their academic programs. The article addresses the legal status of basic military training as a mandatory educational component, its integration into curricula, and the emphasis on a practice-oriented approach. Special attention is given to the cooperation between the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine and the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in coordinating model training programs. Pedagogical and ideological objectives of basic general military training are also examined, including the formation of national identity, patriotism, legal awareness, and a sense of responsibility for the fate of the state. The article analyzes training modules that cover first aid, tactical and topographic skills, firearms training, psychological resilience, and knowledge of international humanitarian law. Furthermore, the article explores socio-legal challenges associated with the risks of abuse of the right to defer mobilization, highlighting the importance of introducing uniform requirements for all higher education students. The authors conclude that the implementation of general military training ensures a balanced combination of the right to education and the constitutional duty to defend the state. In conclusion, the article states that basic general military training, as an instrument of national security policy, meets current challenges and contributes to strengthening the country’s defense capability, mobilization reserve, and citizens’ readiness to participate in national resistance in accordance with the principles of the Constitution of Ukraine.