Germany Could Revive Conscription by Mid-2027, Senior Lawmaker Says
- Germany's military recruitment drive faces collapse, with only 530 new soldiers joining between January and May despite contacting around 300,000 young people, undermining the nation's goal to reach 260,000 personnel by 2035.
- To boost troop strength from the current 185,000, the government introduced a voluntary military service model in November, including compulsory registration for 18-year-old men to address recruitment shortfalls.
- Thomas Roewekamp, chairman of the German parliament's defense committee, expressed 'serious doubts' that voluntary efforts will suffice, stating, 'We will have to return to conscription' if targets aren't met.
- Decision-Making must conclude by July 31 of next year, Roewekamp said, reflecting the urgent need for independent European defense capabilities amid Russia's potential 2029 threat and unreliable United States support.
- By July 2027, Germany must decide whether to reintroduce compulsory service, with officials emphasizing engagement with youth rather than debating them, despite recent demonstrations against conscription.
35 Articles
35 Articles
Mandatory military service in Germany was abolished in 2011 and Berlin's defence approach changed significantly following Russia's full invasion of Ukraine.
Due to the Russian threat in Germany, the question of the return of compulsory military service was raised.
The old system, abandoned many years ago, may be getting a second life. Germany may take a step it abandoned over 15 years ago. The reason is a military shortage and growing concerns about the threat from Russia, RBC-Ukraine reports, citing The Telegraph. Berlin is considering reinstating mandatory military service for men as early as 2027. The country fears there won't be enough volunteers to bolster the military amid the Russian threat. Thomas…
Lietuvos Radijas ir Televizija
lrytas.ltGermany is struggling to attract volunteer soldiers and may have to decide on the return of compulsory military service by July 2027, Thomas Roewekamp, a member of the German parliament, the Bundestag, told AFP.
Germany To Decide On Mandatory Military Service Amid Soldier Shortage
Faced with a growing threat from Russia and an unpredictable United States, Berlin is looking to revamp its army and has committed to increase its troop strength to at least 260,000 soldiers -- up from the current 185,000
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 40% of the sources lean Left
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
