After months of debate, Germany is introducing a voluntary military service program. Although conscription will not return, all 18-year-old males will be asked to complete a survey and, beginning in 2026, undergo health checks to assess fitness for military service. The initiative aims to recruit enough volunteers to meet the Bundeswehr’s operational needs.

Voluntary Service and Recruitment Goals

SPD Defense Minister Boris Pistorius plans to launch the new system in early January, offering better conditions and pay than the previous conscription model. The law, to be presented to the Bundestag in December, emphasizes that the service will initially be voluntary.
Pistorius stated, “Other European countries, especially in Scandinavia, have shown that combining voluntary service with attractive benefits works. We hope to achieve the same here.”

Salary and Recruitment Targets

The Bundeswehr aims to recruit 20,000 new volunteers by 2026, offering a monthly stipend of €2,600 (approximately $3,025, excluding taxes). Pistorius highlighted that applications are rising, and recruitment numbers are increasing. The Bundeswehr currently has about 182,000 troops, but NATO requirements call for at least 260,000 by 2035.

Conscription Debate

Conservative CDU/CSU parties argue that meeting recruitment goals will require either a return to mandatory service or a mechanism that automatically triggers compulsory service if volunteer numbers fall short. The SPD has firmly rejected reintroducing conscription. If volunteer numbers remain insufficient, the Bundestag may consider introducing “conscription on demand” for certain males.

Surveys and Health Checks for Young Men

Starting in 2026, all 18-year-old males will complete a “willingness declaration” survey to indicate their interest in serving and to assess physical fitness. Females may also complete the survey and volunteer, but participation is optional, as only males can be drafted under Germany’s constitution. Approximately 300,000 young men per year will undergo these assessments.