Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has announced that he will reintroduce conscription in Germany and establish a modified selective military service. Lawyer Christian Solmecke explains what you should know about this.
The Conscription Plan: Selection and Commitment
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has presented concrete plans to revive conscription in Germany. This initiative follows changing global security situations, especially since the Russian attack on Ukraine. Pistorius proposes a new service, called “selective military service,” and emphasizes that conscription has not been abolished, but only suspended.
How does the selective military service work?
The selective military service is intended to offer a mix of voluntary and compulsory participation. Pistorius is focusing on the following points:
- Questionnaire for young men: Every man aged 18 or over must fill out a questionnaire that is sent by email. This questionnaire is intended to indicate whether he or she is interested in joining the Bundeswehr.
- Voluntary participation and mandatory elements: The new model will initially attempt to recruit volunteers. If this is not sufficient, mandatory elements will be introduced, whereby those affected will be invited to a medical examination.
From basic military service to the reserve
The structure of military service under the new model provides for a basic period of service of six months, which can be extended on a voluntary basis by up to 17 months. This flexibility is intended to increase the attractiveness of military service.
Attractive additions and civilian options
Military service should not only include military tasks, but also offer civilian elements. This includes a wide range of experiences and skills that young people can acquire during their service:
- Opportunity to get a driver’s license: As an additional incentive, military service members can obtain their driving license during their service.
- Integration into the reserve: After completing their military service, the participants are transferred to the reserve, where they train regularly and can be deployed in the event of a defense.
This integrated approach is intended to help create a well-prepared and motivated army that can be quickly mobilised in an emergency.
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