HÀ NỘI — Changes to rules are being proposed to stop people avoiding military service by getting certain tattoos on visible parts of their bodies.

People who have tattoos with content that opposes the administration, incites ethnic division, is grotesque, bizarre, sexually provocative or violent will not be selected for military service.

Tattoos that are offensive and visible on exposed areas, such as the face, head, neck, from halfway down the upper arm, or from one-third down the thigh, are also not allowed. Additionally, tattoos covering more than half of the back, chest or abdomen are not acceptable.

But now the Ministry of National Defence has announced that it will instruct agencies and units to research and propose amendments to the regulations concerning tattoos on the bodies of conscripts. This is to prevent individuals from exploiting tattoos to avoid military service.

According to the ministry, some individuals intentionally get tattoos or tattooed words on their bodies before undergoing recruitment examinations, or after pre-selection when they are aware they meet the criteria for conscription, in an attempt to avoid military service.

The ministry stated that regulations on tattoos and tattooed words during the recruitment and selection process for conscription into the military are outlined in Circular No 50/2016 issued by the Ministry of National Defence and the Ministry of Public Security.

According to the ministry, regulations regarding tattoos are part of the political and ethical standards for conscripting citizens. During the selection process, individuals with tattoos that are deemed inappropriate or offensive, affecting the image and conduct of military personnel and the cultural environment within the military will not be recruited.

However, citizens with tattoos that do not fall under these restrictions, or those that can be removed, will still be considered for conscription.

Currently, there are no legal provisions prohibiting individuals from having tattoos, including among young people eligible for military service before undergoing recruitment examinations.

In response to public feedback, the ministry said it will direct relevant agencies and units to research and propose specific amendments to the regulations regarding tattoos on the body of conscripts. — VNS