Germany’s parliament recently voted to introduce voluntary military service. This change comes as the country seeks to strengthen its defense in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. It represents a notable shift in Germany’s military policy, pushed by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who aims to create one of Europe’s strongest conventional armies.
Starting in January 2026, all 18-year-olds will receive a questionnaire asking if they’re interested in joining the armed forces. For men, it’s mandatory; for women, it’s voluntary. However, this proposal has sparked significant backlash among young Germans. Many students plan to protest this change in approximately 90 cities, citing concerns about being forced into a military environment. The protests’ organizers emphasized that “war offers no prospects for the future and destroys our livelihoods.”
The Bundestag supported the change with a vote of 323 to 272, joining other European nations like France, which recently announced a similar initiative. The German government intends for military service to remain voluntary for now. However, starting in July 2027, all men will need to undergo medical exams to assess their fitness for potential service. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius stated that these exams are essential for promptly determining who can serve in times of crisis.
Currently, Germany’s military, known as the Bundeswehr, has about 182,000 troops. The government wants to increase this number by 20,000 over the next year, aiming for a long-term goal of 260,000 active soldiers and around 200,000 reservists by the early 2030s. This initiative is not just about recruitment; it’s a response to heightened global tensions. In the past, Germany’s military was significantly downsized during peacetime, with compulsory service ending in 2011.
The backdrop for these changes includes rising pressures from NATO, especially regarding defense spending. Recent reports indicate that NATO members have been urged to bolster their military capabilities. In Merkel’s era, Germany reduced its military presence after the Cold War. Now, as geopolitical threats grow, the renewed focus on military strength is clear.
Interestingly, while the voluntary service is attracting some interest, many young people are skeptical. Critics argue that the plan diverts energy and resources away from crucial social issues. For instance, a movement on social media has grown, highlighting the opinions of youth against the traditional military mindset, advocating for peaceful solutions instead.
Incentives for those who sign up include a competitive salary of around €2,600 a month, which is markedly higher than many entry-level jobs. France’s volunteers will earn at least €800 monthly.
In addition to military reforms, the Bundestag is also considering pensions legislation, which aims to maintain current pension levels until 2031. This bill, crucial for the ruling coalition, has faced doubts about its financial sustainability, particularly from younger members of Merz’s party.
This multifaceted approach shows that, while Germany is rebooting its military strategy, it also grapples with significant social and economic challenges that impact future generations.
For more context on Germany’s military history and the evolution of its defense strategies, you can explore resources like the Bundeswehr’s official page or recent analyses on military reforms in defense studies.
