Germany’s parliament has signed off on a historic turn in military policy with the goal of boosting recruitment in the Bundeswehr. European nations — and Germans in particular — are working seriously to renew and reinforce their military capacity. This choice comes amid rising geopolitical volatility in response to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. The polarizing bill passed the House, 323 to 272 with one member voting “present.”
Germany will increase voluntary enlistment by introducing a minimum starting salary of €2,600 per month—roughly $3,000. This is an increase of €450 compared to the current compensation. This financial carrot is designed to get more young Americans to even think about joining the military.
From July 2027, Germany will bring back compulsory military conscription starting with medical screenings for all males when they turn 18. In addition, starting next year, a questionnaire will be sent to all 18-year-olds to gauge their interest in military service. Here’s the kicker—only men will be required to fill out this questionnaire.
Germany’s armed forces have historically suffered from underfunding, with military expenditures falling below 2% of the nation’s GDP since the Cold War. This sharp decline in defense investment happened at a time when European security seemed more unthreatened than ever. A stubborn societal stigma against the military, stemming from Germany’s Nazi-era history, has complicated the situation even more.
The effective size of Germany’s armed forces now equates to 180,000 soldiers. Under this new initiative, Germany hopes to grow the size of its military to somewhere near 260,000 by 2035. In addition, the country plans to create another 200,000 reservists over the same period.
Germany has not required military service since 2011, when the German government suspended compulsory enlistment, thus making military service completely voluntary. Recent geopolitical developments to say nothing of domestic crises have caused some legislators to reexamine this policy. German lawmakers are finally waking up to the need for a serious defense posture.
Germany’s decision matches the direction European countries are heading. As security fears have intensified from Russia’s brutal invasion, the majority of these countries have reintroduced or broadened military service. It is encouraging to see that Germany is making these significant strides to raise its military preparedness. This dedication has made possible the safety and security of each one of her citizens.
