According to the “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland” (Thursday editions), referencing sources within the German Armed Forces, approximately three-quarters (72 percent) of the 18-year-old men who received notification for the new compulsory military service have completed the attached questionnaire. Conversely, slightly more than a quarter of young men (28 percent) failed to respond to the Federal Armed Forces’ notice, even though men born from 2008 are legally required to participate.
The survey encompasses questions regarding suitability and readiness for military service. It was reported that around half of those who answered expressed interest in completing at least six months of voluntary military duty; however, the survey indicated this interest does not guarantee final commitment. Authorities noted that, in many cases, the feasibility of offering trainees service close to their hometown is the decisive factor, as longer distances reduce the likelihood of participation. The text also noted that women are not subject to the same requirement to provide information as men.
The Ministry of Defense stated that it will not accept male failure to respond and plans to pursue compliance. Non-compliant individuals face potential fines, and those who were notified have a period of one month to submit their answers.
Separately, the Ministry of Defense recently informed the public that between the start of the year and April 24th, approximately 194,000 men and women received the notice containing access details for the questionnaire. Based on positive survey outcomes, aptitude tests and assessments will be conducted, and interested personnel will be designated for specific roles. The Ministry plans to present detailed analysis and representative results during the summer.
Meanwhile, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) is obligated to report figures semi-annually. His stated goals include increasing the number of active soldiers by 2035 from 186,000 to 260,000, and raising the number of permanently planned reserves from nearly 60,000 to 200,000.
