13/11/2025
In a bid to boost its armed forces, the German government will require all 18-year-olds to register for potential military service by next year, with the option of a mandatory call-up if needed.
Germany's coalition partners announced a compromise on revamping military service, after an earlier political deal was derailed last month.
Under the new plan, all 18-year-olds will be sent questionnaires, asking them about their motivation and suitability for the military and informing them about voluntary engagement. For men, responding will be mandatory.
A monthly allowance of €2,600 ($3,000) will also be offered to those who sign up voluntarily.
The CDU/CSU and SPD government said in a statement that it had set out a "growth path" to reach a total of around 260,000 soldiers — from a current stand of 180,000 — and some 200,000 reservists.
“We will make voluntary service more attractive, we want to get as many young people excited about service for their country," Jens Spahn, the parliamentary leader of Merz's Christian Democratic Union party, told reporters.
"If in the end, voluntary service isn't enough, there will have to be a mandatory element."
The draft law is expected to be introduced to parliament for a vote by the end of the year.
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Following months of debate, the coalition government has agreed on a new mechanism to boost soldier numbers. It includes the option for partial compulsory enlistment.
