Germany: Interest in the Bundeswehr grows, conscription not planned for the time being

The German army is seeing growing interest in military service, but the government continues to debate the future of conscription. This was reported by Deutsche Welle.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) is pushing forward a law that aims to make voluntary military service more attractive starting January 1, 2026.

The plan includes higher pay, drone training, and the opportunity to obtain a driver's license.

The goal is to recruit 15,000 soldiers in 2025 and 30,000 annually by 2029, bringing the total number of professional soldiers in the German Armed Forces to around 110,000.

The law also provides for mandatory health examinations and interest questionnaires for men starting in 2027, inspired by the Swedish model. However, military service itself is to remain voluntary.

The opposition from the CDU/CSU, represented by Norbert Röttgen, among others, criticizes the measures as insufficient.

Germany will thus be unable to meet its NATO commitments or face the growing threats from Russia.

The liberal camp of the coalition, on the other hand, rejects a return to conscription and supports a softer approach.

(red)