Germany’s cabinet has approved a new voluntary military service programme aimed at expanding the country’s armed forces, despite last-minute disagreements within the governing coalition over the scope of the proposal.
A Response to Security Threats
Defence minister Boris Pistorius said the initiative was essential in light of international security challenges, particularly “Russia’s aggressive behaviour.” Speaking after a special cabinet meeting held in a secure bunker at the defence ministry, he stressed:
“The Bundeswehr must grow. Only then is deterrence against Russia truly credible.”
The plan is part of Germany’s broader rearmament effort launched after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Structure of the Programme
Beginning in January 2026, all 18-year-old men will be required to complete a survey assessing their suitability and willingness to serve in the military, while participation will remain voluntary for women.
From those who volunteer, a cohort will be selected for at least six months of military training. Germany aims to recruit around 20,000 young people next year, with the goal of expanding to 40,000 annually by 2031, once training capacity is increased.
Political Debate
The proposal faced pushback within the coalition. Johann Wadephul, foreign minister, dropped his objections, allowing the bill to move forward. However, members of Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s Christian Democrats (CDU) argued the plan does not go far enough to address military personnel shortages.
Norbert Röttgen, CDU foreign policy expert, warned:
“This draft law will not make Germany capable of defending itself. If we squander this legislative period, then the need for 90,000 extra soldiers by 2035 will be barely achievable.”
The CDU and its Bavarian sister party, the CSU, want automatic provisions for reinstating conscription if voluntary recruitment falls short. The current draft only allows the Bundestag to consider compulsory enlistment if necessary, without setting clear benchmarks or timelines.
CDU/CSU defence spokesman Thomas Erndl insisted the bill would not pass parliament “without significant changes.”
Balancing Politics and Defence
Pistorius, a Social Democrat, has had to balance his party’s opposition to mandatory conscription — suspended in 2011 — with pressure to expand the armed forces. Chancellor Merz downplayed the disagreements, describing them as a “normal” part of coalition governance.
Additional Security Measures
Alongside the service plan, the cabinet also approved the creation of Germany’s first national security council, a long-standing campaign pledge of Chancellor Merz, designed to streamline defence and security decision-making.
