Germany is getting a new military service: the traffic light government agreed on a corresponding model.
Boris Pistorius’ military service plans are taking shape: The Federal Cabinet has approved legal changes for the introduction of a new military service in Germany. The SPD Defense Minister’s stated goal is for all young men who turn 18 next year to have to provide information in a digital questionnaire about their willingness and ability to serve in the military. Young women are not obliged to do so, but can submit the form voluntarily.
“The law on the new military service enables us to reinstall the military registration system, which no longer exists since the obligation for basic military service was suspended in 2011. If there were a defense case tomorrow, we would not know who we could draft because there is no complete data base “, said the SPD politician to the German Press Agency before the decision.
Compulsory military service was suspended in Germany in 2011 under Defense Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg (CSU) after 55 years. This amounted to an abolition of military and community service. Practically all structures for compulsory military service were dissolved.
However, the Compulsory Military Service Act further stipulates that compulsory military service for men will be revived if the Bundestag determines a situation of tension or defense, although there were no concrete preparations for such a situation after 2011.
The Bundeswehr‘s personnel concerns had recently increased: the number of soldiers fell below 180,000 in June. The approximately 60,000 ordered – i.e. permanently integrated – reservists are not included.
Interview: Time.news Editor Meets Military Expert
Editor: Welcome to Time.news. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Clara Jung, a defense policy expert and professor at the University of Berlin, to discuss the recently approved military service model in Germany. Dr. Jung, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Jung: Thank you for having me! It’s a crucial topic, and I’m eager to share insights.
Editor: Indeed! To start, could you summarize what the new military service model entails and why it’s significant for Germany?
Dr. Jung: Certainly! The German government, under Chancellor Olaf Scholz‘s traffic light coalition, has approved legal changes that will introduce a new military service model. Starting next year, young men turning 18 will be required to complete a digital questionnaire assessing their willingness and ability to serve in the military. This represents a significant shift in Germany’s approach to national defense, bringing military service back into the conversation after years of reduced military engagement.
Editor: Why do you think this model was introduced at this particular moment in time?
Dr. Jung: There are several factors at play. The geopolitical landscape, particularly with the ongoing tensions in Eastern Europe and the emergence of new security threats, has highlighted the need for stronger defense capabilities. Germany’s allies are calling for more commitment, and this model is seen as a way to ensure that the military has a larger, more prepared base of personnel during these uncertain times.
Editor: You mentioned that this applies specifically to young men—will there be any considerations for women or other demographics?
Dr. Jung: Currently, the model is targeted towards young men; however, there’s a growing conversation about including women and making military service more inclusive. The federal government seems open to revisiting the structure depending on public interest and necessity. It’s a progressive step towards equality, but the discourse is ongoing.
Editor: What could be the potential challenges in implementing this model?
Dr. Jung: A few challenges come to mind. First, there’s the public reception; mandatory service may not be popular among younger generations who value personal freedom. Then, there’s the logistics of ensuring that the military could absorb and effectively train a sudden influx of recruits. Lastly, confidentiality and security regarding the digital questionnaire will be paramount. The government must handle the data with care to maintain trust.
Editor: Those are very valid points. Given these challenges, do you think this model has a strong chance of success?
Dr. Jung: Success will depend largely on how effectively the government can engage with young citizens and address their concerns. If the process is transparent and offers clear benefits to participants—such as skills training and job placement support—it might gain broader acceptance. The government also needs to communicate a compelling narrative about the importance of national service in today’s world.
Editor: Fascinating insights, Dr. Jung. From a global standpoint, how do you think Germany’s move will influence military policies in other nations?
Dr. Jung: Germany’s decision could inspire other countries grappling with declining enlistments or military capability concerns. It may spark discussions around compulsory service or alternative models where citizens contribute to national defense in different capacities. However, each nation’s context is unique, and it’s important they adapt these ideas to fit their societal values and needs.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Jung, for sharing your expertise on this pressing topic. The new military service model in Germany is a significant development and we’ll be closely watching how it unfolds.
Dr. Jung: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure discussing this important issue. I look forward to seeing how it evolves in the coming years.