Germany is taking a major step toward reshaping its military power as the government advances a new conscription bill aimed at transforming the Bundeswehr into Europe’s strongest army. The move follows Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s pledge to reverse decades of underinvestment and strengthen the country’s defenses amid ongoing concerns about Russia and changing U.S. foreign policy.
The proposed reforms seek to increase Germany’s active personnel from around 180,000 to 260,000 soldiers by 2035, alongside an additional 200,000 reservists. Initially, the government plans to rely on voluntary enlistment, offering higher incentives — including a starting monthly salary of €2,600 ($3,000), up €450 from the current level.
However, if recruitment targets fall short, mandatory call-ups may follow.
Beginning next year, all 18-year-olds will receive a questionnaire about military service. For men, responding will be compulsory, and by 2027, they will also undergo mandatory medical examinations.
The bill comes as Europe faces mounting pressure to bolster its own security. With the Trump administration urging Europe to take greater responsibility and Russia’s war in Ukraine showing no signs of ending, Berlin’s military overhaul is seen as a long-delayed necessity.
Experts say Germany’s geography gives it a pivotal role in Europe’s defense. But whether the reforms come fast enough remains uncertain. NATO officials have warned that Russia could threaten a member state by 2029.
The plan has stirred political debate. While Defense Minister Boris Pistorius argues that a stronger army will improve deterrence, critics — particularly from the political left — oppose any return to mandatory service. Young Germans, too, express hesitation, fearing disruption to their education and careers.
Applications for conscientious objector status have surged to their highest level since 2011, reflecting public unease.
After decades of underfunding and a deep-rooted pacifist culture following World War II, Germany began shifting its defense posture following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Former Chancellor Olaf Scholz declared a historic “Zeitenwende,” allocating €100 billion to modernize the military. Under Merz, defense spending is set to double to meet new NATO targets.
If the Bundestag approves the bill — expected to be voted on by year’s end — the reforms will take effect on January 1, 2026.
