The Inspector General of the German armed forces, Carsten Breuer, has strongly advocated for a comprehensive conscription of young men as a prerequisite for ensuring Germany’s defense capabilities, directly challenging proposals for a lottery system being debated within parliamentary factions of the governing coalition. Breuer’s insistence highlights a growing tension between political expediency and the perceived military requirements for a credible defense posture.
Speaking to the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, Germany’s top military officer dismissed suggestions that a lottery could be used to select conscripts, emphasizing that “from a military perspective, it is crucial that each age cohort is assessed”. He argues that a full assessment is vital to accurately determine available personnel and to maintain the flexibility required in a crisis, a timeframe that could prove fatal if delayed. “Only then do we know who is available and who we could draw upon in a defense situation, which we want to prevent” said Breuer, underscoring the urgency of the matter.
The push for a complete conscription arises from a stark assessment of Germany’s current security landscape, with Breuer stating that it’s impossible to predict future threats with certainty. This uncertainty necessitates “a reliable growth potential” – a readily available pool of personnel that can rapidly bolster troop strength. He cautioned against self-imposed limitations on operational options, implicitly criticizing proposals for a lottery system as a potentially crippling constraint.
While acknowledging the desirability of voluntary service and stressing that “we primarily rely on voluntarism” Breuer outlined a tiered approach. He stated that a system prioritizing the enlistment of individuals deemed “particularly qualified and motivated” after a general assessment would provide “decisive advantages” for military training. This reflects a focus on maximizing the effectiveness of limited resources, a crucial consideration given the Bundeswehr’s staffing shortages.
Germany’s armed forces have stated a need for 260,000 active soldiers and 200,000 reservists to meet NATO requirements, a significant increase from the current 180,000 active soldiers. While expressing a commitment to attracting volunteers, Breuer’s statements suggest a growing reliance on compulsory service to bridge the widening gap, raising questions about the future of Germany’s military personnel model and the balance between democratic principles and national security imperatives. The debate represents a politically sensitive juncture, pitting the logistical demands of defense against the desire for a purely volunteer army and the potential for public resistance to compulsory military service.