Proposed reforms to Germany’s conscription model are facing scrutiny, particularly regarding the potential for mandatory service under specific circumstances. According to reports, a draft bill from Defence Minister Boris Pistorius outlines a framework allowing the government and parliament to order the mobilization of conscripts if deemed necessary for defense policy requirements and if sufficient volunteers cannot be recruited.
Katharina Dröge, parliamentary group leader for the Green Party, voiced reservations about this approach. She characterized the consistent threat of reinstating mandatory service as “uncreative, ineffective and paternalistic” arguing that forcing participation undermines the principles of voluntary service. Dröge emphasized that compelling individuals to serve is fundamentally problematic, a position previously held during the era of the old conscription model, which resulted in alternative service options.
Dröge highlighted a critical weakness within the Bundeswehr: its difficulty in retaining those who voluntarily choose to serve. She pointed to the concerning high dropout rates among voluntary recruits. “There’s enormous potential there” she stated, adding that improving recruitment processes is key to attracting more individuals currently willing to participate voluntarily.
Despite these concerns, the Green Party indicated support for the minister’s proposed questionnaire, which aims to gauge young people’s interest in exploring potential involvement in defense services. Dröge described this approach as “a very low-threshold opportunity for young people to engage with the issue and decide whether it’s something they want to pursue”.