Germany Considers Reinstating Aspects of Conscription Amidst Shifting Security Landscape
BERLIN – Germany is weighing a partial return to mandatory military service, a notable policy shift driven by the war in Ukraine and a perceived need to bolster national defense capabilities. While a full-scale reinstatement of conscription is not currently planned, proposals under consideration would establish a system where citizens could be called upon for service in the event of a defense emergency, alongside the option of alternative social service.
The move marks a departure from the 2011 suspension of conscription, which followed a period of reduced perceived threat and a focus on professionalizing the armed forces. However,the Russian invasion of Ukraine has prompted a reassessment of Germany’s security posture,with calls for increased investment in defense and a larger,more readily available military force. Friedrich Merz, a leading figure in the Christian Democratic union (CDU), has stated Germany “must build the largest army in Europe.”
The proposed system would allow for conscientious objection, requiring applicants to fulfill an alternative social service obligation, possibly in sectors like healthcare. this echoes the framework previously in place before conscription was halted. Public opinion,notably among young Germans,is divided,with recent polls indicating reluctance towards a return to mandatory service. Youth organizations argue for increased investment in education and mental health support as alternatives to relying heavily on conscription.
Germany’s military advancement has been historically constrained by international agreements.The “two-plus-four treaty” signed in 1990,following reunification,limited the German army to a maximum of 370,000 soldiers to allay concerns among neighboring countries and former Allied powers. This limitation, coupled with a sensitive post-Nazi past and the end of the Cold war, led to a period of reduced military focus, resulting in neglected facilities and a need for substantial investment in training staff and infrastructure.
As 2023, the German government has been authorized to borrow unlimitedly for defense investments, signaling a clear commitment to strengthening its military capabilities. The debate over conscription is ongoing, with the government balancing security concerns, budgetary considerations, and public sentiment. A podcast episode from The Day featuring interviews with young Germans on the topic is available here.
