Germany considers reinstating compulsory military service – but do Germans actually want to fight?

German Chancellor Merz and his cabinet have approved plans to boost recruitment for the German armed forces - the Bundeswehr. The aim is to expand the military in case of aggression from Russia. NATO estimates that Germany would need armed forces of more than a quarter of a million to withstand a Russian attack. Current troop numbers are well short of that. Here's what the cabinet has approved: From 2026, all 18-year-old Germans will be sent an online questionnaire asking if they're interested in joining the military. Completing the form would be compulsory for men and voluntary for women. After that, the Bundeswehr would invite suitable candidates to come forward for basic training. If the recruitment drive does not work, then conscription could be reintroduced for the first time since 2011. Parliament would need to approve the plan before it comes into force. The question of whether Germany could - or should - force young people to potentially put themselves in harm's way has been hotly debated

DW speaks to Patrick Sensburg, former Member of German Parliament and President of the German Armed Forces Reservists Association

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