Germany Plans to Discuss New Military Service Law

• Germany is set to discuss a draft law aimed at reforming military service.
• The law provides for possible reinstatement of mandatory military service.
• The Cabinet plans to increase the army to 460,000 personnel.

Germany is preparing to discuss a draft law that envisions changes in the military service system. The government aims to increase the number of armed forces in response to new threats from Russia. At a Cabinet meeting on September 27, they will discuss the law that could reinstate mandatory military service, which was abolished in 2011.

According to the new proposals, military service will remain voluntary, but the draft law includes provisions for possible reinstatement of mandatory mobilization in case of personnel shortages. It is expected that the number of armed forces will increase by approximately 180,000 personnel to 460,000, of which 260,000 will be active soldiers.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius expressed hope that the new law would make military service attractive to prevent a return to mandatory mobilization. He emphasized that a strong German army within NATO should contribute effectively to deterring potential aggressors.

The Cabinet is holding a meeting at the Ministry of Defense, emphasizing the importance of reforms. Some party members support automatic reinstatement of conscription if voluntary service does not yield results. Currently, the government aims to position Germany among the strongest armies in Europe.

Tags: Europe/Politics