Asger Risom
Calls to reinstate compulsory military service are gaining ground in Germany as officials warn that voluntary recruitment may no longer meet NATO goals.
Calls to reinstate compulsory military service are gaining ground in Germany as officials warn that voluntary recruitment may no longer meet NATO goals.
General Sounds the Alarm
German General Christian Badia says the Bundeswehr is short up to 60,000 soldiers—and voluntary recruitment isn’t closing the gap.
Conscription Was Abolished in 2011
Germany ended mandatory service over a decade ago, but rising security threats are forcing leaders to rethink that decision.
NATO Readiness at Risk
Badia warns that Germany may fail to meet its military commitments to NATO unless troop levels improve quickly.
Infrastructure Isn’t the Problem
The general suggests old barracks could be refurbished and leased from private investors to support a return to conscription.
Merz Joins the Debate
Chancellor Friedrich Merz says he agrees with the defense minister’s assessment and is open to additional measures if needed.
“Voluntary First”—For Now
The current coalition agreement favors a volunteer-based military service, but Merz emphasizes that this is only the “initial” plan.
SPD Pushes Back
The Social Democratic Party has ruled out reopening the conscription debate during this legislative term.
Political Tensions Rise
Coalition partners remain divided on how to solve the recruitment crisis without sparking broader political fallout.
Soldiers Are Overstretched
Germany’s armed forces commissioner says troops are facing unsustainable demands—and conscription could offer relief.
A Decision Looms
With European security in flux, Germany’s leadership may soon face a defining choice on the future of its military force.