BERLIN, Germany: The German cabinet has approved a new military service model aimed at bolstering the Bundeswehr amid heightened security threats following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The proposal calls for mandatory registration of young men for potential military service, although participation will remain voluntary. Compulsory service in Germany was suspended in 2011, but current geopolitical tensions have reignited discussions on national defence preparedness reports AFP.
Defence Minister Boris Pistorius described the plan as a response to Europe’s evolving security landscape. “With this law, we are setting the course for increasing our deterrence and defence capabilities,” Pistorius said.
Under the proposed system, 18-year-olds will receive a questionnaire assessing their interest, health, and physical aptitude for service. While men will be required to respond, participation for women remains optional. Those meeting the criteria will be invited to a selection process, and top candidates will undertake an initial six-month term, with the possibility of extensions for those interested.
The initiative aims to recruit over 5,000 new soldiers annually, addressing recruitment challenges faced by the Bundeswehr. Despite targeted campaigns, only 18,802 recruits joined in 2023, a negligible increase from the previous year.
While the law still requires parliamentary approval, it could take effect as early as next year. Opposition parties, such as the CDU-CSU alliance, argue that broader compulsory service is necessary, proposing a year-long mandatory service for young people that could include military or civil roles.
Critics have raised concerns about gender equality, suggesting that mandatory service should apply to both men and women. However, constitutional changes required for this adjustment would take considerable time, limiting immediate application.
This proposal marks a pivotal step for Germany as it seeks to reinforce its military capabilities in an increasingly uncertain global climate.
