Germany is considering bringing back a military draft, a move Defense Minister Boris Pistorius says could act as a deterrent to Russia amid rising security concerns in Europe.
“If we once again draft all men of a given year and collect data on everyone fit for service, it will be noticed in Russia. In other words: this is also deterrence,” the SPD politician told Bild.
Mandatory service in Germany was suspended in 2011, but the Basic Law allows it to be reinstated immediately if a defense emergency occurs.
Pistorius said officials need to know who is ready for deployment in such a scenario. He also criticized the closure of district military recruitment offices, calling it a serious misstep. Modern recruitment structures are being rebuilt and are expected to be operational by mid-2027.
The coalition government submitted plans this week to reform military service. But disagreements remain among CDU, CSU, and SPD lawmakers, particularly over how to fill ranks if volunteer numbers fall short.
Pistorius said Parliament must decide whether a lottery system should be introduced but stressed that voluntary service should remain the priority.
The minister expressed confidence the Military Service Act could take effect in early 2026. “Everyone in the Bundestag knows: it is about Germany’s security,” he said.
Pistorius will embark on a military-political trip this week to Iceland, Canada, and the United Kingdom. According to the Defense Ministry, he will discuss security cooperation, NATO collaboration, and defense industry partnerships with officials in the three countries.
Germany’s renewed focus on conscription comes as Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine wraps up its fourth year, fueling broader European security concerns and rising military tensions across the continent.