Germany is discussing a new law for military service, which could reintroduce mandatory conscription if volunteering is not sufficient.

Germany is preparing for a significant change in its defense policy, discussing the reintroduction of mandatory military service, suspended for more than a decade. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has proposed a law that provides for a mixed recruitment system, based on volunteerism and mandatory selection, in case the number of volunteers is insufficient. The project stipulates that 18-year-olds will complete an online questionnaire, and those deemed fit will participate in a selection process, which will become mandatory from July 2027.

Although the initiative has political support, the majority of the population opposes random selection, with 60% of respondents considering it wrong. There is a divide between supporters of the complete reintroduction of mandatory military service and those who prefer voluntary civil service. The law is set to come into force on January 1, 2026, marking a transition in the recruitment infrastructure.

Pistorius emphasizes the importance of revitalizing the selection system for an effective army and as a deterrent message to Russia, in the context of tensions in Eastern Europe. However, pacifist organizations report an increase in requests for military service refusal, and public interest in information about conscientious objection has significantly risen. Despite the resistance, Pistorius remains determined to strengthen Germany's defense, emphasizing the responsibility of young people in maintaining freedom.