Young voices on compulsory military service: Debate on October 31st in Kirchheim!

Young voices on compulsory military service: Debate on October 31st in Kirchheim!

The discussion about reviving compulsory military service is gaining momentum in the Esslingen district. On Friday, October 31st, Bundestag member Matthias Gastel from the Greens invites you to a youth consultation in Café Scholderbeck in Kirchheim unter Teck. From 2:30 p.m., young people will be given the opportunity to express their opinions on issues such as security and defense. This comes in the context of a worsening international political situation that is reviving the debate about conscription. The first decisions in the Bundestag could be made as early as December, which makes it clear that something is moving.

Conscription was suspended in Germany in 2011, but Defense Minister Boris Pistorius of the SPD is considering a partial return. This could take effect if the number of voluntary applicants for the Bundeswehr is not sufficient. Estimates from the Ministry of Defense indicate a need for 60,000 additional soldiers. Baden-Württemberg's Prime Minister Winfried Kretschmann also emphasized the urgency of rearmament plans for Germany and Europe. His appeal is no coincidence, because young people like the student Rimon are planning training, but also recognize the need to be prepared for possible conflicts.

The voices of the youth

How does the 18 to 34 year old generation feel about compulsory military service? According to a current survey by the ZDF political barometer, 45% of Germans are in favor of a return to military service, but young people in particular are skeptical: over half are against the reintroduction. Voices like student Lona’s are important in this debate. She complains that the needs of her generation are hardly taken into account and has suggestions, for example the possibility of being able to choose between military service and community service.

Opinions are divided. On the one hand, youth researcher Simon Schnetzer shows that acceptance of the Bundeswehr has increased among young people, but there are still concerns about the usefulness of military service. Lona and her classmates Loreena and Charlotte express fears about potential deployments and training in the Bundeswehr. Against this background, it is all the more important that the youth level is heard in the opinions of political decision-makers.

A look forward

What awaits us? The Ministry of Defense is currently working on a new military service model that will start on a voluntary basis from 2025. Until then, the question remains whether conscription could come into force again. This would be primarily due to the political decision of the Bundestag, which might have to determine a case of tension or defense. In order to comprehensively expand compulsory military service to women, the Basic Law would also have to be changed.

It will be exciting to see how the discussion about compulsory military service continues. The opportunity to speak directly to representatives and express your own opinion is a valuable opportunity for young people in the Esslingen district. Matthias Gastel is not only available to discuss the topics of conscription and the compulsory year, but also takes other concerns seriously. The audience is cordially invited to attend the event without prior registration and to actively participate in shaping its future.