Germany updates military service rules: Everyone must register, joining is voluntary
German soldiers (Photo: Getty Images)
The ruling coalition in Germany has agreed on a reform of military service, according to Reuters.
The new compromise, approved by the coalition parties, includes mandatory registration and medical examinations for all men aged 18 and older. It will also require completing a detailed questionnaire about one’s willingness to serve.
Starting January 1, 2026, Germany will require all men to register for potential military service. Military service will initially remain voluntary, provided that a sufficient number of men volunteer.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius reminded that Europe counts on Germany not only in terms of finances, weapons, and procurement, but also in terms of personnel.
After the coalition parties reached an agreement on the military service reform, Pistorius expressed confidence that everything would be fine and again described voluntary service as an attractive concept.
Military service if needed
If the required number of service members is not achieved through volunteers, the German parliament may introduce a so-called military obligation as needed.
Pistorius explained that if mandatory military service were implemented, a range of criteria would be applied when selecting conscripts.
Exemptions from conscription include: having two brothers already serving mandatory military service, employment in the police, service in civil defense, or conscientious objection.
By 2035, the size of the German Armed Forces is planned to increase to 260,000 soldiers (80,000 more than at present), with 200,000 reservists. If this goal is not reached, mandatory military service will be reinstated, requiring a separate law to be passed.
Germany’s readiness for war
RBC-Ukraine reported that the Bundeswehr has already taken steps to improve the army’s image - raising salaries, covering the cost of driver’s licenses, and implementing other support programs.
At the same time, the Bundeswehr admitted that Germany is currently not ready for war. It published a pessimistic report stating that, under the worst-case scenario, about 1,000 wounded soldiers could appear in Germany every day, along with civilian casualties. Experts predict serious physical and psychosocial strain on medical personnel and other patients.
Currently, according to experts, Germany’s medical system is moderately prepared: responsibilities are unclear, supply chains are vulnerable, communication channels are poorly coordinated, pharmacies do not stock sufficient medicines, and it is unknown which doctors are available or assigned as reserves.
