Members of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU) parliamentary group have signaled their intention to push for substantial revisions to the proposed national service legislation, even as the federal cabinet prepares to vote on the draft this Wednesday.
Thomas Erndl, the CDU/CSU’s spokesperson for defense policy, stated the group is prepared to allow the cabinet to adopt the current draft to avoid delays, but will actively seek amendments during the parliamentary process. “We will insist on addressing what we see as necessary improvements through parliamentary procedure” Erndl explained.
A key point of contention centers around a proposed automatic transition to compulsory conscription if voluntary enrollment falls short of targets. The CDU/CSU are advocating for a provision mirroring the Swedish model, outlined in the coalition agreement, which would establish a clear pathway to mandatory service should voluntary participation prove insufficient.
Erndl refuted arguments put forward by both Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and CDU leader Friedrich Merz regarding the Bundeswehr’s capacity to accommodate a return to traditional conscription, citing concerns about instructor availability and infrastructure. He asserted that the Bundeswehr should specify its personnel needs to fulfill its mandates and that these requirements should be met without exceeding or falling short. The parliamentary group does not envision a full-scale draft of an entire cohort of young men.
The CDU/CSU believe a guaranteed increase in troop numbers would enhance deterrence capabilities in a potentially volatile security environment. Erndl emphasized the Bundeswehr’s assessment that a lag in full operational readiness constitutes a particularly serious vulnerability, a perspective which informs the group’s position on national service.