The German Parliament voted for the introduction of voluntary military service, with the possibility of mandatory conscription if the number of voluntary enrollments is not sufficient.

The German Parliament approved a new military service law on Friday, aimed at increasing the numbers of the armed forces and fulfilling NATO objectives in the context of tensions with Russia. The law, adopted by the government in August, introduces a two-component system: a better-paid voluntary service to attract young recruits, and a possible mandatory conscription, activated in case the number of voluntary enrollments is insufficient.

This measure would require a separate vote in the Bundestag and could involve a lottery for those eligible. Germany aims to increase the number of active soldiers to 260,000 and to have at least 200,000 reservists by 2035. All men born after January 1, 2008, will be medically evaluated, and men and women aged 18 will be required to declare their willingness to serve. This decision aligns with a broader trend in Europe, where several countries are strengthening their defense capabilities.