The head of the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW), Marcel Fratzscher, has intensified his call for a mandatory service year specifically targeting senior citizens. In an interview with the Tagesspiegel newspaper, Fratzscher argued that due to lower birth rates among the so-called “Boomer” generation, they should contribute a “social service year” in their later years to ensure the financial stability of Germany’s social security systems.
Conversely, Fratzscher opposes proposals requiring the younger generation to undertake a mandatory social year or military service. He emphasizes the current need for young people in the labor market, stating that they are essential to finance pensions, healthcare and care for the elderly.
Addressing concerns about potentially burdening individuals who previously served through military or alternative service, Fratzscher confirmed his belief that the Boomer generation should bear a dual responsibility, while delaying a service requirement for Generation Z. He suggested that the younger generation could fulfill their service obligation in approximately 45 years, when they themselves are in a comparable age bracket. Fratzscher cautioned that requiring mandatory service from younger individuals now would reduce their participation in the workforce for a crucial year.
Furthermore, Fratzscher attributed systemic challenges facing Germany, including geopolitical tensions, to decisions made by older generations. He linked the current heightened risk of conflict with Russia to what he perceived as an undue benefit taken by previous generations during periods of peace. While acknowledging the Bundeswehr’s need for additional personnel, he questioned whether recruitment should rely solely on mandatory service or be driven by voluntary participation.
The DIW head noted that he himself did not fulfill military or alternative service during his youth, explaining that his application to the Bundeswehr in 1990 was rejected because two of his older brothers had already completed their service.
