Germany's new conscription law aims to expand the army by 80,000 soldiers
After months of discussion, the German cabinet has approved a new conscription plan for the Bundeswehr. Without introducing compulsory military service, the new plan significantly improves the benefits for new recruits, aiming to increase the number of soldiers by 80,000.
To address new security challenges, Germany not only intends to strengthen its military equipment but also greatly expand its size: by the early 2030s, the number of active-duty soldiers will increase from the current 183,000 to 260,000. The number of reserve soldiers will also double, from 100,000 to 200,000.
According to the new conscription plan, starting in 2026, all German young people who have just turned 18 will receive a questionnaire. Men must complete it, while women can do so voluntarily. They are asked whether they are willing to serve in the military. Since everyone must go through this process, authorities hope that more young people will consider joining the army.
Men who are willing and qualified will be invited for a medical examination. Starting in 2027, all 18-year-old males will be required to undergo a conscription medical examination, regardless of whether they want to serve in the military. The shortest term of service under the new conscription system is six months, and the longest is 23 months. The salary of recruits after the reform will be significantly increased, with a monthly net income of approximately 2,300 euros.
It remains controversial whether the new plan introduced by the German cabinet can attract more volunteers. Some conservative politicians in the ruling Christian Democratic Union (CDU) believe that only reintroducing compulsory military service can solve the problem of insufficient personnel in the Bundeswehr, and that the current reform is just a waste of time.
The enthusiasm of German youth for military service is also limited. According to a survey conducted by the polling firm YouGov in July this year, most people have no intention of serving in the military or any other form of service. Among German youths aged 16 to 26, 55% oppose the introduction of compulsory military service.
Source: DW
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1841716977396748/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author himself.