Published: 2024-07-18
The German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) has reported a significant increase in recruitment, with 15% more applicants compared to the previous year.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius attributes this rise to a growing desire among citizens to serve their homeland.
To further boost numbers, Pistorius plans to introduce a new military service model in 2025. This model will include a six-month basic service with an option for an additional 17 months of voluntary service.
The initiative aims to recruit 5,000 additional conscripts annually from a pool of 400,000 candidates.
Pistorius intends to implement these changes without amending the constitution, hoping for the law to take effect by early 2025.
Related articles in German:

Krisenzeiten: 15 Prozent mehr Bewerber bei der Bundeswehr
faz.net
focus.de

Bundeswehr: Bewerberzahlen steigen - noch vor neuem Wehrdienstmodell
sueddeutsche.de

Wehrdienst: „Immer mehr Menschen, die sich freiwillig melden“ – Bewerber-Boom bei der Bundeswehr - WELT
welt.de
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