The German federal government has approved new legislation regarding national service. The cabinet initiated the draft law presented by Defence Minister Boris Pistorius on Wednesday.
The new law initially envisions a voluntary minimum six-month national service. From 2026, all men aged 18 and over will be registered via questionnaire, aiming to establish a profile of the health and capabilities of potential recruits. Participation for women will be voluntary. Mandatory conscription assessments are slated to begin for men on July 1st, 2027.
Individuals who voluntarily join the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces) will be designated as professional soldiers from the outset and receive preferred assignments. Incentives such as financial assistance for obtaining private driver’s licenses, career training opportunities and language courses are also included to attract young people.
The legislation seeks to increase the Bundeswehr’s personnel capacity by 80,000. Initial assessments indicate a need for approximately 460,000 active-duty soldiers and reservists. Should recruitment goals not be met or the security situation deteriorate, the law provides for the possibility of reintroducing compulsory military service, though this is not automatic.
The draft law has faced criticism from the opposition in recent days, particularly from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU). CDU Deputy Parliamentary Group Leader Norbert Röttgen has deemed the draft insufficient, stating it will not enhance Germany’s defence capabilities. He argues it deviates from the Swedish model cited in the governing coalition agreement due to a lack of specific figures and timelines. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul initially raised concerns, lodging an objection; however, this was later withdrawn following discussions.
