Since January 1, about 25 percent of young men and women have answered the German Armed Forces’ questionnaire on the new defence service. The response rates, however, differ markedly between the sexes. According to the “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland” which cites so‑called “coalition circles” the return rate for men is roughly 50 percent, while for women it is only 6 percent. The data do not indicate how many respondents actually intend to serve. Male 18‑year‑olds must reply within a four‑week deadline, and the ministry has so far declined to comment on this point.
In 2008, just under 700 000 children were born in Germany. As soon as they reach adulthood, they receive a QR code that links to a questionnaire about their fitness and willingness to serve. Those who appear suitable and willing are called for enlistment.
From 2027 onward, all young men will be required to attend enrolment. The new service is initially voluntary. The law aims to raise the number of active soldiers from roughly 184 000 today to between 255 000 and 270 000 by 2035. If enough volunteers can’t be attracted, the ruling black‑red coalition retains the option of reinstating conscription.
Early in February, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) said some 40 000 questionnaires had already been sent. He noted that meaningful conclusions about young men’s and women’s willingness to serve would only emerge after two to three months, yet he expressed confidence that Germany could ultimately forgo universal conscription. Many experts and defence policy makers in the CDU/CSU parliamentary group remain skeptical.
