A leading figure within the Green Party faction in the Bavarian State Parliament, Katharina Schulze, is advocating for a “mandatory service commitment” for all citizens. In an interview with the Mediengruppe Bayern, Schulze expressed the belief that every individual within society has a contribution to make to the nation’s well-being.
She argued that the responsibility for maintaining the country’s defense capabilities should not be solely placed on young men. Schulze proposed a compulsory service period for all individuals aged 18 to 67. This service could involve participation in the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces), volunteer work with the fire department, or other forms of civic engagement.
“Everyone can do something for this country” Schulze stated, highlighting a shift in perspective on national security and a recognition that periods of peace and stability are not guaranteed. “We must do everything we can to ensure that this continues.
Separately, addressing the ongoing debate surrounding the planned phase-out of internal combustion engines in 2035, Schulze emphasized the importance of maintaining that long-term objective. “A few days here or there are irrelevant to the climate; we need to move forward towards the future, which the economy is already doing. The goal must remain: internal combustion engines have no future”.