German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has voiced support for renewed discussions regarding the reintroduction of mandatory military service. In an interview with the “Märkische Allgemeine Zeitung” (MAZ), part of the “Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland” (Thursday editions), the head of state stated that “defending our interests, our democracy, our freedom is more necessary than ever. That is why we need the debate about compulsory military service”. He further added that “anyone who looks at Europe must come to the conclusion that we need to protect ourselves better.
Steinmeier acknowledged that his own proposal for a social service obligation, particularly in eastern Germany, has met with resistance. “Three years ago, I put forward the suggestion that everyone should, once in their lifetime, perform a certain amount of compulsory service for society beyond their own sphere of influence, to strengthen social cohesion. Surprisingly, I am encountering more reservations to this in eastern Germany than in the west” the President explained. He indicated he would address this feedback.