A recent survey conducted by Forsa for the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland has revealed a complex perspective among German citizens regarding national defense and military service. The poll, based on responses from 1,002 participants collected July 28th and 29th, highlights a willingness to financially support increased military spending alongside qualified reservations about engaging directly in armed conflict.
A significant 67% of those surveyed deemed it “correct” that Germany should double its defense expenditure by 2032, with strong support across the political spectrum. A resounding 92% of CDU/CSU supporters, 75% of SPD supporters and 76% of Green Party supporters voiced their agreement. Conversely, opinions were more divided, with 59% of Left Party supporters expressing opposition and 52% of AfD supporters similarly dissenting from the proposed increase.
The survey also explored attitudes toward reinstating mandatory military service. With concerns emerging over recruiting sufficient volunteers for the Bundeswehr, 61% of respondents believe reintroducing a compulsory service requirement would be justifiable. However, this proposal encounters greater resistance from younger demographics. A substantial 61% of individuals aged 18-29 oppose the reinstatement, a rate significantly lower in older age groups.
Despite broad support for increased defense funding and even a potential return to mandatory service, the survey uncovered a stark disconnect regarding personal willingness to participate in armed defense. Only 16% of respondents stated they would be prepared to defend Germany with a weapon in the event of an attack, with an additional 22% expressing a “likely” willingness. A majority, 59%, indicated they would be “likely not” or “absolutely not” willing to engage. This reluctance is more pronounced among women (72%) compared to men (46%) and especially prevalent among those aged 50 and over (68%), with significantly lower opposition levels among the 18-29 age bracket (56%).
