Military service in Germany could become mandatory again. The decision will depend on the number of volunteers.
The German government is preparing for the possible return of compulsory military service. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said the country needs at least 60,000 new recruits and 200,000 reservists. If there are not enough volunteers, conscription could become mandatory.
This was reported by the publication il Fatto Quotidiano.
Despite the government's efforts – social media campaigns, test camps, a national veterans' day – the shortage of personnel remains a problem. In 2024, the number of people willing to serve increased by 19%, but not everyone joined the army: some candidates do not meet the requirements, others refuse after they have already started their service. In just one year, the Bundeswehr's numbers have decreased by 350 people.
The new law provides for a questionnaire for 18-year-old boys regarding their readiness for service. Girls will be able to fill out the questionnaire voluntarily. If the number of places in the barracks exceeds the number of applicants, the state reserves the right to return mandatory conscription.
The bill is supported by most political forces – the CDU, the CSU and even part of the SPD. However, the Left Party is against it. The issue could be discussed as early as next weekend – during the SPD party congress, where more than 300 new initiatives will be considered.
In the budget for the coming years, the government has provided for an increase in defense spending from 95 to 162 billion euros. Until 2029, Germany plans to spend 3.5% of GDP on military spending, and another 1.5% on protecting critical infrastructure. Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that this is not a gesture towards the United States, but a response to Russia's aggressive policy, which threatens the security of all of Europe.
As a reminder, Germany is accelerating plans to expand and modernize its network of air-raid shelters and shelters. According to Ralf Tiesler, head of the Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK), the country must be prepared for a possible attack from Russia within the next four years.
