The German Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), is advocating for the immediate reinstatement of mandatory military service in Germany. In statements provided to the Funke-Mediengruppe newspapers, Wadephul expressed his support for an immediate return to conscription, emphasizing the need for coalition discussions on the matter.
The Bundestag is scheduled to begin initial deliberations next week on a government draft bill. This proposal initially outlines the creation of a new voluntary service program aimed at bolstering the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces). However, the draft stipulates that if this voluntary system fails to meet personnel needs and the security situation warrants it, the government and parliament could subsequently consider introducing mandatory military service.
Wadephul reiterated his consistent position in favor of immediate conscription and suggested a potential for strengthening the current government draft during parliamentary debate. He noted that lawmakers from the CDU/CSU parliamentary group are pushing for a more robust approach. The politician highlighted the importance of considering the broader geopolitical circumstances during the discussions surrounding the legislation, acknowledging the evolving security landscape.
