The proposed defense service model unveiled by Germany’s coalition government has drawn sharp criticism from Michael Kretschmer, the Minister President of Saxony and a prominent figure within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). Kretschmer, also serving as Deputy Federal Chairman of the CDU, characterized the plan as a “missed opportunity” signaling deep reservations about the direction of Germany’s evolving approach to national service.
His critique centers primarily on the lack of broad public consultation regarding the scope of the program, specifically questioning the contentious decision to include young women. Kretschmer argued that such a fundamental societal change warrants a comprehensive national dialogue, proposing that a referendum should have been conducted to gauge public sentiment on various models before parliamentary consideration. “I believe it would have been more appropriate for the population to vote on different models and for the Bundestag to then adopt this vote” he stated.
Beyond the inclusivity debate, Kretschmer advocated for a mandatory service – encompassing both military and civilian options – accessible to young men and women equally. His vision includes a twelve-month commitment undertaken between the ages of 18 and 25. This ambitious proposal, he acknowledges, faces a significant hurdle: the requirement for a constitutional amendment to facilitate its implementation.
While recognizing the absence of guaranteed parliamentary support for such a drastic reform, Kretschmer frames a national referendum not merely as a procedural step, but as a vital mechanism for building the public backing this initiative purportedly requires. This suggestion underscores a growing divide within German politics regarding the role of direct democracy and the legitimacy of policy decisions lacking widespread public approval, raising questions about the government’s outreach and the perception of democratic deficits within the legislative process. Kretschmer’s stance highlights a distinct perspective on addressing national security concerns and fostering a sense of civic responsibility, one that prioritizes popular sovereignty and challenges the government’s chosen pathway.
