Söder wants compulsory military service - at least seven months
In 2011, compulsory military service is suspended - and practically abolished. But times have changed. CSU leader Söder is now calling for the suspension to be reversed. This would also increase young people's commitment to the state and society.
Bavaria's Prime Minister Markus Söder is calling for the reintroduction of compulsory military service for at least seven months. "From today's perspective, the suspension was a mistake," the CSU leader told Bild am Sonntag. The argument at the time was "that we no longer have a threat in Europe. That is different now. With a growing threat situation, the reintroduction of compulsory military service makes sense".
This would not happen overnight, the CSU chairman continued. "We are talking about implementation over a period of five years at the earliest in order to adapt the necessary structures," said Söder. "To ensure proper basic training, this should last at least seven months." Such a service would also strengthen "the bond between young people and the state and society".
A "general compulsory service" could be an alternative, but would be "constitutionally difficult to enforce", added the CSU chairman. Compulsory military service would apply to men, while compulsory social service would apply to everyone, said Söder - "although the Bundeswehr is of course open to women".
In the meantime, Söder pleaded for a bonus for those who do voluntary military service. "The current offer is not attractive enough," he said. "All those who voluntarily serve for a year should receive a bonus: for example, a reduction in the numerus clausus for university studies, the waiver of practical semesters or a reduction in the training period."
Compulsory military service was suspended in July 2011 after 55 years by the then Defense Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg. In practice, this amounted to the abolition of military and civilian service, as all structures for the conscription and training of a large number of soldiers were also abolished.
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The suspension of compulsory military service in 2011, initiated by former Defense Minister Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg, effectively led to its abolition. However, in response to the changing security landscape, current Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder advocates for its reversal.
Söder's proposal includes reintroducing compulsory military service for at least seven months, arguing that the previous suspension was a misstep given the growing threat situation.This service, he believes, would enhance young people's connection with the state and society.
The Federal Armed Forces would be significantly impacted by this proposed reintroduction, requiring a phased implementation over five years to adapt the necessary structures. The CSU leader also suggests that women could serve in the Bundeswehr if they choose to.
Source: www.ntv.de
