The German Cabinet has approved a draft bill for voluntary military service, with conscription serving as a fallback if recruitment targets fall short. The decision, made on August 27, 2025, aims to strengthen the Bundeswehr amid ongoing security concerns.
The bill mandates that all men turning 18 complete a questionnaire regarding their military service, while women can opt in voluntarily. This legislative move is a response to the increasing need for personnel within Germany's armed forces. The bill will now proceed to the Bundestag for further debate and potential amendments.
This legislative action comes in the wake of recent developments surrounding military recruitment in Germany, where officials have expressed concerns about insufficient numbers in the Bundeswehr. The government's strategy reflects a broader trend in Europe to enhance national defense capabilities amidst geopolitical tensions.
If recruitment targets are not met, the government could reinstate conscription, a move that would mark a significant shift in Germany's defense policy. The fate of the bill and its implications for military service in Germany will be closely monitored as it moves through the legislative process.
