Germany plans voluntary military service DW 04/12/2025
Briefly

Germany's new coalition government, comprising the CDU/CSU and SPD, proposes a gradual return to military service, emphasizing voluntary participation. While the SPD prefers voluntary service, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius aligns with the CDU's plan to implement a questionnaire system for 18-year-olds. This method aims to identify suitable candidates for military service, reinstating a military registration system abandoned in 2011. The goal is to ensure readiness in times of crisis and enhance the appeal of military careers, framing service as a respected duty contributing to personal growth and job opportunities.
The likely future German Chancellor, CDU leader Friedrich Merz, announced: "We will strengthen military service in Germany, following the Swedish model at first on a voluntary basis."
The idea is to select those who are the fittest, most suitable, and most motivated for military service," said Pistorius about his proposal last year.
A military registration system is designed to collect information on all citizens of military age, including data on age, health, abilities, and military experience.
The coalition agreement optimistically states: "Respect through demanding service, combined with opportunities for personal development and job training."
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