A proposed amendment to the legislation concerning the new mandatory service aims to ensure that volunteers continue to explore options beyond traditional military roles, including social services, the Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) and civil protection.
According to Anja Weisgerber, Deputy Parliamentary Group Leader of the CDU/CSU faction, the intended enhancements to the voluntary military service could put the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) in competition with existing federal volunteer services. She emphasized that these alternative services also contribute significantly to social cohesion and the protection of the community.
The proposed change would introduce a notice regarding these alternative societal roles within the initial inquiries and draft notices sent by the Bundeswehr. Weisgerber stated this would underscore the need for both external defense and internal unity.
Sources indicate that Minister Karin Prien, responsible for volunteer services, has already consulted with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius regarding the matter. Pistorius reportedly welcomed the idea of the Bundeswehr highlighting these alternative service avenues. Government circles suggest that adapting the informational process is currently under discussion between the relevant ministries.
