Germany decides to reintroduce compulsory military registration

On Wednesday, the German government approved a new legal framework for military service.

The decision was made amid a significant shortage of personnel in the Bundeswehr and growing security threats.

This also applies to the modernization of military registration of males, the press service of the German Ministry of Defense reported.

The report noted that given the significant increase in the threatening situation in Europe as a result of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the Bundeswehr will focus even more on national defense and the defense of the North Atlantic Alliance.

“Times are changing, Germany is facing the task of securing its peace and being able to act in times of crisis,” the ministry pointed out.

The draft law approved by the government stipulates that instead of the current voluntary military service as a special civic duty, a “new military service” will be introduced in Germany.

The goal is to increase the number of “available” reservists in a timely manner. It is planned to do this by modernizing military registration.

All men will be required to provide their data to the registration authorities via an online questionnaire, including answering questions about their willingness and ability to perform military service, otherwise, they will face a fine. Women will not be obliged to fill out such questionnaires but may do so if they wish.

Anyone who agrees to serve in the military will be invited for an “assessment” to determine where the person can be most useful. It is emphasized that this does not mean the candidate will necessarily do military service.

In this way, the Bundeswehr expects to invite about 10,000 men to voluntary military service and make it attractive. The new military service should last between 6 and 23 months, and everyone will be able to choose a convenient period for themselves.

The German Defense Ministry emphasizes that the innovations do not mean the return of conscription. Reservists will have to gather in an “emergency situation.” The innovation will not replace other types of service, particularly on a professional basis, under contract, etc.

Preliminary proposals

In May of this year, the Head of the Bundeswehr Union called for the military registration of all eligible Germans. The German Ministry of Defense has also prepared proposals for the possible resumption of conscription in the country.