The Armed Forces of Haiti have called 2,000 applicants to selection tests for the next class of recruits. They were chosen from 17,522 people who signed up during recruitment tours in all 10 departments in June. The process began on Monday, October 5.

The 700 highest-ranked candidates will enter the training center after the tests and background checks.

Applicants are being notified only by telephone and email. No list of names will be published, for security and confidentiality, the recruitment commission said. Candidates should keep their phones on and check their email regularly.

Places are shared equally among the departments, except the West, which has a larger quota because it had many more applicants. At least 30% of those called must be women.

There are four kinds of tests: medical, physical, intellectual and psychological. The physical tests include running, rope climbing and sit-ups. Blood pressure problems, tattoos, piercings or certain visible infections can lead to medical disqualification.

Priority goes to applicants involved in community service, environmental protection and reforestation, and to those with technical diplomas useful to the army. The government plans to grow the armed forces to 15,000 soldiers over three years.