The Bundestag has approved the controversial plans for a new military service. The government coalition’s bill, put forward by the CDU/CSU and SPD, was passed on Friday in a roll-call vote with the required majority.
Under the law, starting in 2026, all 18-year-old men will be required to complete a questionnaire assessing their interest in military service and must undergo a mandatory medical examination. However, military service will remain voluntary for the time being. Women will also receive the questionnaire, but participation is voluntary.
In the vote, 323 lawmakers supported the plans, 272 opposed them, and one abstained. Details of individual votes are expected to be released later. The Green Party, The Left, and AfD opposed the legislation in the second reading. For the law to come into effect on January 1 as scheduled, the Bundesrat must approve it during its final session of the year on December 19.
The CDU/CSU initially sought an automatic transition to conscription if personnel targets were not met. The compromise introduces a “needs-based conscription,” which would fill gaps between required and available personnel. Any activation of this mechanism would require a further Bundestag vote, and affected individuals could be selected through a lottery or another random method.
The reform is also in response to NATO requirements for personnel levels, amid heightened security threats from Russia. NATO targets call for Germany to eventually boast a total military strength of 460,000, made up of 260,000 active soldiers and 200,000 reservists. The Bundeswehr is currently far from those figures, with around only 182,000 active soldiers and about 49,000 reservists.
Young volunteers will be offered a modern training program and competitive pay. Monthly compensation starts at 2,600 euros gross, while temporary career soldiers will receive 2,700 euros gross, including accommodation. Wherever possible, assignments will be near home. Those serving at least one year are eligible for support toward a car or truck driver’s license.
Military service lasts a minimum of six months, with longer terms possible up to 25 years based on suitability and preference. All SaZ soldiers will be paid according to the Federal Pay Act.
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