Looking for new recruits: Will compulsory military service return through the back door?

In light of a growing threat from Russia, Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius wants to significantly increase the Bundeswehr's operational readiness. But the army is short of personnel. With the “Military Service Modernization Act” adopted in December, the Federal Government has therefore introduced a new military service: Starting this year, it is officially voluntary — but at the same time mandatory physical inspections for young men born from 2008 will be introduced. But what happens if the target number of new recruits is missed? Do young German men have to prepare for the return of compulsory military service?

Demonstrators stand in front of the Bundestag building in Berlin and hold a banner with the inscription “No to compulsory military service.” Credit: Elisa Schu/dpa/picture alliance via Getty Images

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Recruits take part in an anti-tank exercise on the grounds of the Bundeswehr's Westphalian Barracks in Ahlen in West Germany — during a media day on basic training for the Bundeswehr on November 13, 2025. Source: AFP / INA FASSBENDER/AFP