Markus Söder, the Minister-President of Bavaria and Chairman of the CSU, has strongly advocated for the swift implementation of mandatory conscription in Germany. Speaking to the “Bild” newspaper, Söder argued that “security is the prerequisite for freedom” stating emphatically that the compulsory military service must be introduced as quickly as possible. According to his view, the move is unavoidable, arguing that Germany cannot achieve the necessary national security-especially if the armed forces are to become Europe’s largest army-through voluntary participation alone.
In addition to his call for mandatory service, the minister-president also addressed Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. Söder urged government officials to focus more attention on the existing reserve forces. He stressed the need for a comprehensive concept designed to fully equip and support reservists through all levels of service.
