Berlin – The chairman of the German Parliament’s Defense Committee, Thomas Röwekamp of the CDU, has voiced strong criticism of a recent resolution passed by the Social Democratic Party (SPD) regarding national service, arguing for the reinstatement of mandatory conscription.
In remarks to the *Rheinische Post* on Monday, Röwekamp stated that the SPD’s decision fails to adequately address evolving defense policy challenges and primarily reflects the party’s internal stance. He emphasized the CDU/CSU’s position that a clear framework is needed to determine the conditions under which further, compulsory stages of national service could be activated to achieve the necessary staffing levels for the armed forces.
Röwekamp asserted that a significant increase in personnel is essential to reliably fulfill Germany’s commitments to both national and collective defense within the alliance. He contends that the SPD resolution falls short of this requirement.
Despite the differing viewpoints, the CDU politician expressed optimism that a robust agreement regarding the necessary expansion of the Bundeswehr – including a clear pathway for the phased reintroduction of conscription – can still be reached in collaboration with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius. Röwekamp urged swift action, stating that a decision on this matter can no longer be delayed.
