The German government has approved a new legal framework for military service to address personnel shortages in the Bundeswehr and growing security concerns in Europe.
The Ministry of Defense announced that this includes modernizing military registration for men as the Bundeswehr shifts focus towards national defense and the protection of NATO interests, particularly in light of Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
The plan introduces a "new military service" model to replace the existing voluntary civic duty program.
This aims to increase the number of reservists by modernizing military records.
All men will be required to complete an online questionnaire for registration authorities, providing information about their willingness and ability to serve. Women may also complete the questionnaire voluntarily.
Those who agree to serve will be invited for an "assessment" to determine where they might be most valuable, though this does not guarantee selection for military service.
The Bundeswehr hopes to attract approximately 10,000 men into voluntary service, offering flexible service terms between 6 to 23 months. While the initiative does not reintroduce compulsory conscription, it prepares reservists for mobilization in emergencies. Professional and contract-based military roles will continue unaffected by this new model.
Earlier this year, the head of the "Union of the Bundeswehr" advocated for mandatory military registration for all eligible Germans. The Ministry of Defense also submitted proposals exploring the potential reinstatement of conscription.
