BERLIN

The German government introduced a draft law on Wednesday to boost military recruitment, aiming to expand its armed forces by 80,000 personnel to reach a total of 260,000 soldiers.

Speaking at a news conference in Berlin, Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the proposed legislation would modernize Germany's military service model without returning to the compulsory conscription that was abolished in 2011, while making the Bundeswehr more attractive.

"In our coalition agreement, we agreed to initially expand the Bundeswehr on a voluntary basis. We are now implementing this approach with the new law, which will take effect beginning in 2026," Merz said at the conclusion of a Cabinet meeting held at Defense Ministry headquarters.

While dismissing criticisms that the German armed forces would not be able to meet recruitment goals without reinstating compulsory conscription, the conservative leader left room for potential changes in the coming years.

“That would require a separate Cabinet decision and a separate decision at the parliament. But from today's perspective, I am confident that we will achieve the numbers we need,” he asserted.

According to the new military service model, all German men who turn 18 will be required to complete an online questionnaire about their interest in volunteering for the armed forces, as well as their skills and qualifications. Suitable candidates will then be invited for a medical examination.

To make military service more attractive to young people, the Bundeswehr will offer flexible training and service programs. The government will also increase salaries to approximately €2,300 ($2,660) net, with insurance included.

The Defense Ministry plans to gradually increase the number of volunteer recruits from 15,000 to 40,000 annually by 2031. Under this plan, Germany's armed forces aim to reach a strength of at least 260,000 soldiers by 2035.

The proposed reform has sparked debate among coalition partners in recent weeks. Chancellor Merz's coalition partner, the Social Democrats, has insisted on maintaining a voluntary model, while senior figures from the Christian Democrats have advocated for returning to compulsory conscription. The legislation still requires parliamentary approval before it can be enacted.