Germany to Reintroduce Voluntary Military Service for 18-Year-Olds
Germany’s parliament has approved a new voluntary military service program for 18-year-olds, a response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Chancellor Merz’s aim to strengthen the nation’s military. Starting January 2026, all 18-year-olds will receive a questionnaire to gauge their interest in joining the armed forces, with mandatory forms for men and voluntary ones for women. The move has sparked protests, as many young Germans oppose the new law, citing concerns about military training and the prospect of war. The Bundestag’s decision follows a trend among European countries to revamp military service, mirroring similar initiatives like France’s voluntary training program.
John Q. Hosedrinker