Germany’s cabinet has approved a draft bill introducing voluntary military service, part of efforts to expand the country’s armed forces in response to Russia’s aggressive posture after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
The six-month scheme aims to double the number of reservists, now around 100,000, with some volunteers expected to enter full service. Annual recruitment goals start at 20,000 in 2026 and rise to 38,000 by 2030. If targets are not met, the government could seek parliamentary approval to reinstate conscription, which was abolished in 2011.
Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said the Bundeswehr must grow from 180,000 to 260,000 troops by the early 2030s to meet NATO requirements, stressing that deterrence against Russia depends not only on equipment but also manpower.
The proposal faces resistance in parliament, with conservatives pushing for automatic conscription triggers and Social Democrats favouring incentives to make the military more attractive.
