Germany: Compulsory military service is returning
After months of disagreement between the Union and the Social Democratic Party (SPD), the German cabinet is close to reaching an agreement on what is being described as a “transformation of the military service law,” amid plans to significantly expand the German military’s strength in the coming years.
According to a draft law prepared by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and set to be adopted today, all German men aged 18 and over will be required, starting in 2026, to complete an online questionnaire about their fitness, interests, and skills. Participation is optional for women.
Those deemed suitable will be summoned for a medical examination. Starting in July 2027, the tests will be mandatory for approximately 200,000 young men annually, with the examination process taking approximately six hours.
Those who fail to complete the questionnaire or examination will face a fine.
The reform aims to make military service more attractive to young people.
In addition to potential mandatory call-up when needed, the government is seeking to attract volunteers through financial incentives. Recruits are expected to receive around €2,700 per month (up from €1,840 currently), in addition to free housing, food, transportation, and medical care, as well as a grant of up to €3,500 for obtaining a driver’s license.
Those who extend their service for more than six months receive a monthly bonus of 150 euros.
Government estimates indicate the possibility of recruiting 20,000 volunteers next year, with the number rising to 38,000 by 2030.
After service, these volunteers will automatically become part of the reserves, or some will pursue professional military service.
The projected cost is €495 million in 2026, rising to €849 million annually by 2029.
Although the law is based on the principle of volunteerism, it allows the government to impose compulsory military service if the required numbers are not met, provided that Parliament approves.
Herein lies the political disagreement: the Christian coalition is demanding an automatic mechanism that would impose mandatory conscription if expansion goals aren’t met, while the Social Democratic Party insists on a voluntary approach, asserting that young people are eager to join the army.
Reserve Association President Patrick Sensburg went further, calling for the full reinstatement of conscription and the training of all eligible young men for at least 12 months, warning that without such a step, Germany would be unable to achieve timely defense readiness.
