Will Germany Bring Back Military Conscription? The Clock Is Ticking
Can Germany rebuild its military with volunteers alone, or is compulsory service making a comeback?
That question is becoming harder to ignore as the country struggles to attract enough recruits.
Berlin wants to expand its armed forces from about 185,000 to at least 260,000 soldiers by 2035.
It is citing growing security concerns over Russia and uncertainty about long-term US support.
But the new voluntary military programme has produced just 530 recruits after reaching out to roughly 300,000 young men.
Conscription Debate Intensifies
Defence committee chairman Thomas Roewekamp believes time is running short.
“If Germany cannot meet its goals voluntarily, we will have to return to conscription,” he said, adding that a decision should be made by July 2027.
He also admitted having “serious doubts” the current system can deliver enough career soldiers.
Germany suspended mandatory military service in 2011.
Any revival would recruit only the number of soldiers needed rather than every 18-year-old.
The debate comes as Europe pushes to strengthen its own defence capabilities.
Roewekamp argued that Europe must rely less on the United States and warned that NATO unity remains vital in deterring future threats.
One thing is clear: Germany’s recruitment challenge is no longer just about numbers—it’s about deciding how far the country is willing to go to secure its future.
