The German government aims to expand its military forces, yet the Bundeswehr is facing a severe soldier shortage. A recent report reveals that many positions in the army remain vacant.
According to the report, by the end of 2024, 28% of lower-ranking positions in the German military were unfilled. Even during annual promotions, around 20% of positions remained vacant. However, higher-ranking positions are in a relatively better state. To address the crisis, Defense Commissioner Eva Högl has called for a new strategy.
Currently, the German armed forces consist of 181,000 soldiers. Many officials have suggested reinstating the mandatory military service for men, which was suspended in 2011. However, Commissioner Högl believes that simply reinstating conscription will not be enough.
During the presentation of her report in Berlin, she stated that the Bundeswehr currently lacks the necessary facilities and trainers to manage such a program effectively.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Germany has been engaged in large-scale military rearmament. Recent tensions in Germany’s relations with its key ally, the United States, have further emphasized the need for changes in Berlin’s defense policies.