Germany’s coalition partners have agreed on a draft bill on Thursday (November 13) that would introduce a voluntary military service as the country seeks to bolster national defences over Russian security concerns.
The text also opened the door to a reintroduction of compulsory enlistment. The defence ministry hopes the voluntary six-month scheme will help double the number of trained reservists from the current level of around 100,000 and that some of the volunteers will go on to have a career in active service.
Germany ended its previous compulsory military service programme in 2011 and has since struggled to meet troop targets.
Minister Boris Pistorius wants to increase the number of soldiers in service from 180,000 to 260,000 by the early 2030s to meet new NATO force targets and strengthen Germany's defences - part of a planned surge in military spending.
"I am in close contact with (French Prime Minister and former Defence Minister) Sebastien Lecornu and his successor, and, of course, with the UK and with other countries.
They are all watching what we are doing, and our new model of conscription is quite modern. It is very modern, and it might be able to be an example for other countries too. I don't know, but it might be." the Minister said.
Starting next year, all 18-year-olds will receive a questionnaire that assesses their motivation and suitability. Men are required to respond. At the same time, a compulsory examination is planned.
Volunteers would be paid “a gross income of around €2,600,” Pistorius told reporters in Berlin, adding “depending on the length of service, some will receive a subsidy for a driving licence, either for a car or a truck. This will also benefit the armed forces when they enter the reserve. So, all in all, a well-rounded, attractive package.”
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