Bundeswehr Plans for Compulsory Muster gain Public Support, Volunteer Rates Remain Low
BERLIN – A majority of germans support the planned compulsory muster of young men born in 2008, according to a recent survey, though willingness to volunteer for military service remains significantly low. The German government this week reached an agreement on a new service model intended to bolster the Bundeswehr’s personnel numbers, balancing mandatory assessment with a continued emphasis on voluntary service – at least initially.
The move comes as Germany faces increasing security concerns amid the war in Ukraine and a persistent struggle to meet recruitment goals for its armed forces. While military service itself is intended to remain voluntary, a new law will require all young men born in 2008 and onwards to undergo compulsory muster training.The governing coalition hopes this will generate enough recruits on a voluntary basis, but a contingency plan for “necessary military service” – a form of conscription – is included, subject to a future vote in the Bundestag.
An Insa survey conducted for “bild am Sonntag” between November 13th and 14th,polling 1,003 people,found that 58 percent of respondents believe the introduction of comprehensive testing is the right course of action,while 29 percent oppose it. Thirteen percent did not provide a response. However, the survey also revealed skepticism about the success of a purely voluntary system, with 57 percent of those surveyed not expecting enough volunteers to meet the Bundeswehr’s personnel goals. Onyl 25 percent anticipate success, and 18 percent remain undecided.
Personal willingness to serve remains limited. Just 31 percent of Germans indicated they would volunteer for military service,while 55 percent stated they would not. Fourteen percent did not provide an answer.
The coalition’s compromise, presented on Thursday morning, outlines clear growth goals for the Bundeswehr in the coming years. If voluntary recruitment falls short, the Bundestag will be asked to consider implementing a “necessary military service” obligation. Details of the proposed legislation can be found here. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has stated there is “no reason to be afraid” regarding the new measures, according to reporting by Welt.de here.
