Pistorius Urges Swift Implementation of New Military Service Model

The German government is moving quickly to establish a new model for military service following an agreement between the Union and SPD parties. The acting Defense Minister, Boris Pistorius, has expressed a desire to expedite the legislative process for this new framework. In statements made to the press, he indicated that preparations for the necessary legislation are well underway, with the intention of having it enacted within the current year.

Pistorius highlighted that the groundwork has been laid over recent months, and he anticipates that the next steps can be initiated promptly after the formation of the upcoming government. He noted that his department is prepared to present a draft of the legislation rapidly.

The proposed model is inspired by the successful practices observed in Sweden, where a similar system has been operational for several years. Under this framework, individuals aged 18 and above will complete a questionnaire to determine their eligibility for military service, allowing the Bundeswehr to approach suitable candidates for voluntary basic military training.

In terms of recruitment expectations, Pistorius is optimistic about attracting sufficient volunteers to meet military needs. While the new system is designed to be voluntary initially, he acknowledged that if the number of recruits does not meet requirements, mandatory enlistment may need to be considered in the future. The military's ability to ensure a robust defense force is a priority, which includes not only active personnel but also reserves.

Since the suspension of conscription in Germany in July 2011, the military's infrastructure has undergone significant changes, with many related structures dismantled. However, legislation allows for the reintroduction of conscription in times of heightened tension or defense emergencies.

Pistorius indicated that the armed forces currently comprise around 180,000 active members, with an ongoing effort needed to bolster these numbers. He projected that the first year of the new service model could see an additional 5,000 personnel joining the ranks.

The new model will initially be based on voluntary service, with the expectation that a compelling offer will attract enough willing participants. The approach has drawn some criticism, particularly from the Left Party, whose leaders have voiced concerns about the potential for compulsory service through indirect measures. They have called for a public referendum to gauge the opinions of young people regarding the reintroduction of mandatory military service.

In contrast, the Federal Commissioner for the Armed Forces, Eva Högl, has advocated for a broader compulsory service year for both men and women. This proposal aims to create a more equitable system of rights and responsibilities and could encompass various forms of civic engagement, including military service, social work, disaster response, or environmental protection.

Pistorius remains confident that the new military service model will address recruitment challenges effectively, citing Sweden's track record as a successful benchmark. He emphasized that the initial years should generate sufficient interest among young people, and any discussions regarding compulsory service will only arise if volunteer numbers fall significantly short.

Despite the ongoing recruitment efforts, the Bundeswehr has seen a decline in personnel numbers in recent years, with the total standing at 182,857 as of January 31, 2025, down from 183,050 at the end of 2022. Additionally, the average age of personnel has risen, indicating a pressing need for rejuvenation within the ranks.