Germany’s governing center-right CDU/CSU and left-wing SPD parties have reached a long-awaited agreement to reintroduce mandatory military service for men aged 18 and over, marking a major shift in national defense policy.
The new Military Service Act—finalized after weeks of negotiations between the two parties—introduces compulsory conscription as well as a “needs-based” system to fill potential gaps in the armed forces.
Under the new law, all men born on or after January 1st, 2008, will be required to complete a mandatory military medical examination starting next year. A questionnaire assessing motivation and suitability for service will be distributed to all 18-year-olds, and its completion will be compulsory. Those deemed fit for service will be encouraged to volunteer, while the Bundestag retains the power to activate conscription if the number of volunteers is insufficient.
The measure follows months of internal disputes over how to strengthen the German armed forces (Bundeswehr) amid growing security concerns in Europe and an ongoing personnel shortage. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius of the SPD, together with CDU/CSU parliamentary leader Jens Spahn, announced that the reform aims to ensure Germany’s ability to defend itself and fulfill NATO commitments.
This provision replaces an earlier “double lottery” plan, which Pistorius had rejected. Based on this proposal, all young men would have been required to complete a mandatory questionnaire about their willingness and ability to serve. From this group, a smaller number would have been selected by lottery and called in for medical assessment and an interview.
Pistorius reassured the public, stating that there is no cause for concern. “The more capable our armed forces are of deterrence and defense, through weaponry, training, and personnel, the lower the probability that we will even become a party to a conflict,” the SPD politician said. “There is therefore no reason to worry.”
According to government sources, between 3,000 and 5,000 additional conscripts will be needed each year beginning in 2026.
Voluntary soldiers will receive approximately €2,600 gross per month, with additional benefits such as driver’s license subsidies for those serving at least one year. The status of temporary-service soldiers (SAZ 1) will apply to volunteers committing to twelve months or longer.
The government’s long-term goal is to expand the Bundeswehr to between 255,000 and 270,000 active troops by 2035, alongside a reserve force of 200,000. Current numbers stand at around 186,000 soldiers and 70,000 reservists.
While men will be subject to compulsory service, women will remain exempt under constitutional provisions, but may continue to volunteer.
