Thomas Erndl, the defense policy spokesperson for the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, dismissed criticism regarding the requirement for permission for men under 45 to take extended trips abroad. Speaking to the news portal Politico, he stated that “it is not as dramatic as sometimes portrayed”. Erndl explained that this rule is part of the Armed Forces Modernization Act and serves as a form of security preparation. According to him, the act reinstated the registry of military personnel and made provisions for a potential return to mandatory conscription, which includes the requirement that extended foreign stays must “generally be reported or approved”. He also clarified that the system remains voluntary: “Conscription in Germany remains voluntary. Therefore, the requirement for permission can either become a reporting obligation, or we establish permission as a general prerequisite, so that the effort for affected citizens will be minimal”. Nonetheless, he views the debate as reflecting a necessary adjustment to the current security situation. He concluded by saying, “However, it is also true that a functional military registry is a central component of our security provision. If we, as a society, want to stand up for our safety, we must create the necessary organizational foundations for it”.
Union Defends Mandatory Overseas Permit for Young Men
