The Bundeswehr is taking new steps after allegations of sexualised misconduct within its paratrooper units. To protect soldierly expertise, democratic order and military discipline in the army’s specialised fighting troops, Inspector of the Army, Lieutenant General Christian Freuding, will roll out an “Airborne Forces Action Plan”. The plan is scheduled to take effect on Wednesday in the Bavarian town of Altenstadt, where the measures were reported by the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung”.
The action plan includes:
” A status report on ongoing disciplinary investigations and personnel actions.
” Supervision of military service and visits by a General Inspector’s delegate to monitor compliance.
” A review of career paths within the affected regiment.
In addition to these elements, the plan outlines more than a dozen measures aimed at reshaping leadership and key personnel. Significant changes to the brigade and regiment leadership structure are also part of the initiative.
For soldiers who are not the focus of investigations, the army will provide programs that promote values education and personal development. These activities will support the broader change process.
A key component of the plan is the regular rotation of individuals in key roles-especially at the non‑commissioned officer level-and a future limit on the duration of staff assignments. The intention is to reduce opportunities for abuse of power and ensure accountability.
To break a culture of secrecy, town‑hall meetings will be introduced. These forums aim to foster open dialogue and bring hidden problems to light.