A prominent figure within Germany’s Social Democratic Party (SPD) has voiced support for considering compulsory military service for women, following remarks made by Chancellor Merz regarding potential future staffing levels within the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces) Siemtje Möller, the SPD’s parliamentary group vice-president, stated that a serious commitment to gender equality necessitates a discussion about extending conscription to include women She acknowledged that such a move would require an amendment to the Basic Law (Germany’s constitution) – a process demanding a two-thirds majority in the Bundestag – which is not currently foreseeable
However, Möller expressed confidence in the success of the recently redesigned voluntary military service program, aligning with the views of the Defense Minister She believes this revamped approach, intended to be more appealing to potential recruits, will be sufficient to address staffing needs without resorting to conscription
Chancellor Merz initially raised the possibility of reintroducing compulsory service in an interview with French television, TF1 He suggested that, should voluntary recruitment fail to meet the Bundeswehr’s requirements, a mechanism for returning to conscription would become necessary and indicated that any such system should logically extend to women He acknowledged significant hurdles remain but stated that discussions are underway
The Left Party has already signaled firm opposition to any constitutional amendment enabling conscription for women, with defense expert Desiree Becker describing the idea as a step backward rather than progress Becker questioned how Chancellor Merz intends to secure the necessary two-thirds majority in the Bundestag, stating that her party will actively fight against the introduction of compulsory military service for women