Germany’s government has approved a major reform of its military service system, citing the long-standing hybrid threats from Moscow as justification. The reform introduces optional conscription but reserves the possibility of mandatory enlistment in case of insufficient volunteers.
Ambitious Plan
Thanks to the new service, which must last at least six months, it will be possible to recruit approximately 100,000 trained reservists. This would double the current reserve personnel capacity. The Bundeswehr also plans, in coordination with NATO, to increase the size of its active forces from the current 180,000 to 260,000 soldiers, aiming for a total armed forces strength of 460,000. Experts describe this as an ambitious plan.
How Much Will Volunteers Earn?
According to Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, the net monthly salary for volunteers will be around 2,300 euros, with guaranteed accommodation and health insurance. Soldiers will also have access to language courses, other individual training, and subsidies for obtaining a driver’s license. All individuals serving will be enlisted as contract soldiers, ensuring higher pay than previous volunteers.
Possibility of Military Service Without a Mobilization State
The most significant point of the law is the new authority granted to the federal government. With Bundestag approval, it could introduce mandatory basic military service even outside a state of heightened readiness or war, by issuing an appropriate decree. This service would last between six and 12 months. Such a step, Pistorius noted, would be taken “if the defense situation requires a rapid increase in military numbers that cannot be achieved through volunteers.”
Minister Criticizes Chancellor’s Coalition Over Veto
Pistorius acknowledged in an interview with Deutschlandfunk that further changes are likely in the Bundestag, as “no law usually leaves the Bundestag unchanged from its initial form.” He criticized the CDU for attempting to block the legislative package within the government before it reached parliament, stating this was “unacceptable.”
National Security Council to Be Established
Alongside the new military service reforms, the legislative package also includes the establishment of a National Security Council. Chancellor Merz emphasized that decisions on this body had been debated for 30 years, while the government has finalized them in just four months. The council is tasked with convening in crisis situations and making swift decisions.
Source: Gazeta, https://www.dw.com/pl/rosyjskie-zagro%C5%BCenie-rz%C4%85d-zatwierdza-reform%C4%99-s%C5%82u%C5%BCby-wojskowej/a-73782439]
