The modernized CAF Universality of Service (U of S) policy became effective April 1st, 2025
May 16, 2025 - Defence Stories
Estimated read time - 2:30
The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has modernized its military personnel policy suite around Universality of Service (U of S).
The CAF’s U of S principle is recognized in the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Accessible Canada Act. It allows the CAF to set standards as to who may serve as a member and is aligned with legislation and derived from the government of Canada mandate given to the CAF. Military service differs from a civilian employment contract where employees are required to perform only those duties specified in their job description or contract.
Why change the policy?
Canada’s defence policy update – Our North, Strong and Free – notes that the current military personnel policy framework was put in place decades ago. The aim of reviewing the U of S policy was to precisely and objectively define a set of minimum operational standards for all CAF members that reflect the realities of military service in the twenty-first century.
U of S is a critical policy that helps ensure that the CAF meets its mission obligations. The modernized U of S policy standards are linked to assessments that help determine a CAF members ability to serve in today’s operating environment.
What’s different?
The CAF U of S policy modernization was carried out by a DND/CAF multi-disciplinary working group. The new policy, which came into effect on 01 April 2025, is underpinned by research-based studies of medical, physical, cognitive, behavioural and operational demands, which are the foundation for the updated standards. The process was comprehensive, detailed and methodical. It delivers a balanced U of S policy suite supported by evidence-based statements that are clearly defined and linked to assessments.
Should CAF members worry?
CAF members should be confident that U of S policy modernization will not compromise or lower CAF standards, nor will it dramatically change the way that CAF members serve and operate on a day-to-day basis. Some members have expressed concerns about how the new standards will be assessed.
A policy application tool has been created to guide commanding officers and designated staff in navigating support mechanisms to help members regain the ability to meet standards as well as inform the decision-making when assessing a CAF member’s ability to meet U of S through a fair, equitable and repeatable process.
As was done in the past, every effort will be made to support CAF members who experience challenges in temporarily meeting U of S minimum operational standards because of medically-related or other factors. They will continue to be provided with care and support to allow them time to recover or to regain the ability to meet the standards once again.
Watch The Maple Leaf, Defence Team News, @CanadianForces and @milperscom social media accounts, and the CAF App, for further updates.