EXPLAINER - why Germany is bringing back voluntary military service

Germany has taken a major step to bolster its defence, with the cabinet approving a draft bill to reintroduce voluntary military service. The move reflects a broader shift in Europe as governments react to security threats from Russia’s war in Ukraine. But what exactly is changing, and why now?

What is the proposal?

The draft bill sets out a six-month voluntary service programme aimed at attracting new recruits into the Bundeswehr, Germany’s armed forces. Volunteers would undergo basic training and then join the reserve force.

• Current number of reservists: about 100,000
• Goal: to double this number
• Recruitment targets: 20,000 by 2026, rising to 38,000 by 2030

If the targets are not met, the government could consider reinstating mandatory conscription, which was abolished in 2011.

Why is Germany doing this?

Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has made it clear: Germany needs more soldiers to face a shifting security environment.

“The Bundeswehr must grow. Russia’s aggressive stance makes this necessary,” Pistorius said.

The aim is to expand the Bundeswehr from 180,000 to 260,000 troops by the early 2030s. This is part of Berlin’s commitment to meet NATO force targets and to strengthen its credibility as a deterrent power in Europe.

What about equipment and spending?

Germany has already committed to a surge in defence spending, pledging a €100 billion special fund in 2022. But officials stress that hardware alone is not enough. A larger, better-trained military is needed to make deterrence effective.

What new security structures are being created?

The government also announced the creation of a permanent National Security Council, replacing the Federal Security Council and Security Cabinet.

This new body, a campaign promise by Chancellor Friedrich Merz, is designed to improve long-term planning and ensure Germany does not lose strategic focus, as many argue happened during the post-Cold War era.

How does this fit into European defence plans?

Germany is coordinating with European partners, including France. Merz confirmed he has agreed with French President Emmanuel Macron to make a decision on the Future Combat Air System (FCAS), a joint European fighter jet project, by the end of the year.

The bigger picture

Germany’s move is part of a wider European trend. Several countries have reintroduced or expanded military service in recent years, citing Russia’s aggression and the need for stronger defence.

For Berlin, the draft bill represents both a practical and symbolic shift: a country long hesitant about military expansion is now openly acknowledging that deterrence requires not only weapons but also people.

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