Tensions are rising between Germany’s governing coalition parties – the CDU and SPD – over proposed legislation regarding national service, spearheaded by Defence Minister Boris Pistorius.
According to reports, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul initiated a procedural hold on the bill late last week. This mechanism, known as a ministerial reservation or leadership reservation, effectively halts legislative progress. As the cabinet operates on a principle of unanimous decision-making, bills lacking consensus are prevented from being added to the agenda.
The reported reservation centers on concerns regarding the practicality of Pistorius’ proposal. During prior coalition negotiations, the SPD secured an agreement against reintroducing mandatory conscription, instead advocating for a system of incentives, modeled after the Swedish approach. However, CDU representatives have consistently called for a mechanism to evaluate the effectiveness of these incentives.
Wadephul’s reservation specifically demands established, quantifiable targets for military personnel recruitment – concrete numbers outlining year-on-year gains in new recruits. Sources suggest this tactic aims to quickly demonstrate the inadequacy of current recruitment efforts, thereby bolstering arguments for a return to mandatory service.
With negotiations at an impasse, the CDU appears to be taking a firm stance in an attempt to secure last-minute amendments. Key representatives from both ministries are scheduled to meet Monday evening, alongside the Head of the Chancellery, Thorsten Frei, in an effort to find a resolution.