Germany is facing calls to reinstate military conscription, a policy suspended in 2011. Former Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer, once an opponent of conscription, now supports its return for both men and women, citing the need for stronger European defense amid global instability.
CSU defense expert Florian Hahn echoes this urgency, advocating for the first conscripts to begin service by the end of 2025. The Bundeswehr faces significant personnel shortages, with 20,000 positions unfilled.
Proponents argue that a new draft would bolster Germany's defense capabilities and provide a credible deterrent.
However, political divisions remain, with some coalition members opposing mandatory service.
The debate highlights Germany's struggle to adapt its military strategy to a rapidly changing world.
