Germany's cabinet has passed a draft bill which will introduce voluntary military service. The bill could also lead to conscription if more troops are needed. It's part of a move to boost German national defences, following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Compulsory military service in Germany was ended in 2011 under then-Chancellor Angela Merkel. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has made boosting Germany's military a priority given the threat from Russia and said 'we are now back on the path to a military service army.' He summed up his thinking earlier this year saying: 'We want to be able to defend ourselves so that we don't have to defend ourselves.' Germany's plans also follow calls by US President Donald Trump for Europe to take more responsibility for its own defence. When his coalition government came to office earlier this year, it loosened borrowing restrictions to enable a surge in defence spending and then announced plans for 3.5% of economic output to go on defence over the next four years. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius wants to increase the number of soldiers in service from 182,000 to 260,000 by the early 2030s to meet new Nato force targets and strengthen Germany's defences. The defence ministry also wants to increase the number of reservists to 200,000. In future, all 18-year-old Germans, both men and women, will be sent an online questionnaire asking if they are willing to volunteer for military service. It will include questions about their physical fitness. Men will be required to complete the form, but it will be voluntary for women.
Germany's Cabinet Approves Voluntary Military Service, Potentially Leading to Conscription
Germany's Cabinet Approves Voluntary Military Service, Potentially Leading to Conscription
In a significant policy shift, Germany's cabinet has approved a draft bill that introduces voluntary military service. This move aims to bolster national defenses amidst geopolitical tensions, particularly from Russia.
Germany is reintroducing voluntary military service as part of a strategy to enhance its defense capabilities following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The draft legislation could pave the way for conscription if additional troops are deemed necessary. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius plans an increase in military personnel from 182,000 to 260,000 by the early 2030s. The initiative reflects a broader shift in Germany's defense policy, seeking to fortify military readiness in a changing global landscape.
