In Response to Russian Threat, Germany Amends Military Service Law, Triggering Protests | WPN World People News

On the 5th, the German Bundestag passed a military service bill introducing a voluntary service system—marking a major shift in Germany’s defense policy. Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Germany has decided to strengthen its national defense, echoing Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s goal of building Europe’s strongest army.

The Bundestag approved the reform with 323 votes in favor and 272 against, making Germany the latest European country to adopt a hybrid military service model. The goal is to gradually increase troop numbers from the current roughly 182,000 to 260,000 active soldiers by early 2030, along with 200,000 reservists, in order to meet NATO’s new force requirements. However, if the security situation deteriorates or volunteer numbers fall short, the parliament can activate conscription when necessary.

Under the new law, starting in January 2026, all German male citizens who turn 18 will receive a questionnaire about their willingness to join the military, while women may respond voluntarily. Beginning in July 2027, all 18-year-old men will be required to undergo a health examination to assess their fitness for potential service. If war breaks out, the military can use these questionnaires and medical evaluations to draft potential recruits. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that only universal health screening can ensure that Germany does not waste time determining “who can serve as defenders of the homeland and who cannot” in the event of an attack.

Although the government emphasizes that the system remains primarily voluntary, the policy has nonetheless sparked protests among young people. Organizers of the demonstrations wrote on social media: “We don’t want to spend half a year of our lives locked in barracks, marching in formation, obeying orders, and learning how to kill.”

During the Cold War, Germany maintained nearly 500,000 troops. But after the Cold War ended, European nations steadily downsized their militaries, and Germany abolished compulsory service in 2011 under former Chancellor Angela Merkel. Now, facing the threat from Russia and pressure from the United States, Chancellor Merz has pledged to rebuild the Bundeswehr into Europe’s most powerful conventional force.

To attract young recruits, the German military is offering a monthly salary of about €2,600. By comparison, France’s voluntary military service program pays only €800 per month.