The German Bundestag has approved a new voluntary military service for all 18-year-olds. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance national defense, following Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. The decision reflects a notable shift in Germany’s military policy.
Details of the Voluntary Military Service
Starting in January 2026, all young Germans will receive a questionnaire about their willingness to join the armed forces. This form will be mandatory for men and optional for women. The implementation of this service aims to rebuild Germany’s military strength and creates Europe’s most formidable conventional army, as advocated by Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
Opposition and Protests
Young Germans are expressing significant resistance to this move. Protests are anticipated in around 90 cities, including Hamburg, where approximately 1,500 individuals are expected to participate. Students have organized these strikes, arguing that military training does not offer a future and instead disrupts their lives.
- Protest statement: “We don’t want to spend half a year in barracks learning to kill.”
- Students are encouraged to demonstrate against the military service reform.
Legislative Support for Military Reform
The parliamentary vote resulted in 323 members supporting the reform, while 272 opposed it. The current military force, known as the Bundeswehr, has about 182,000 personnel, with plans to increase this number by 20,000 over the next year.
Future Provisions and Medical Exams
By July 2027, all men aged 18 will undergo a medical examination to determine their fitness for service. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius emphasized the need for these assessments in case of a national emergency.
- Goal: Increase military personnel to 260,000 by the early 2030s.
- Healthcare assessments will identify potential recruits swiftly during crises.
Context of Military Changes in Europe
This initiative places Germany among other European nations revising military service. France recently announced 10 months of voluntary training for young adults. Both countries are responding to increased security pressures from global allies.
Potential for Compulsory Draft
Although currently voluntary, the Bundestag may consider reinstating compulsory military service if volunteer numbers are inadequate. This change follows historical reductions in military size post-Cold War, when Germany’s forces were nearly half a million strong.
Financial Incentives for Service
To attract volunteers, Germany offers competitive salaries, around €2,600 per month. In comparison, France provides a minimum of €800 per month for volunteers.
Legislative Dynamics
The Bundestag also debated a key pensions reform aimed at maintaining state pension levels until 2031. This proposal is crucial for the coalition between Merz’s conservatives and the Social Democrats. Despite potential internal dissent, the opposition abstained, aiding the coalition in passing the reform.
As Germany navigates these military and social changes, it faces both challenges and opportunities in redefining its role in European defense.
