Snowy Discoveries at the Military Training Ground
On a snowy day, 16-year-old Carlotta stands in the expansive military training area of Grafenwöhr, observing as a howitzer 2000 fires live ammunition. The cold air is filled with the loud echoes of gunfire, prompting Carlotta to wear earplugs for protection.
A Unique Experience Away from School
This day is unlike any other for the school student; while her classmates stay warm in classrooms in Cologne, she has traveled alone by train to Bavaria. At the Tank Artillery Battalion 375 in Weiden, she’s settled into a barracks room and donned a military uniform, standing outside in the winter chill alongside two dozen other young men and women.
Discovering the Bundeswehr
A team of supervisors oversees the group of young people, as the German military is keen to attract new recruits. Carlotta is curious to see if joining the Bundeswehr might be right for her. To explore this possibility, she participates in the “Discovery Days,” a short internship experience that includes early morning workouts and social evenings.
Future Aspirations in the Military
Carlotta is considering a potential military career. “I might start with three or four years, and if I enjoy it, maybe extend to eight years,” she shared with DW. However, she is not in favor of conscription: “People shouldn’t be forced into it. Volunteering is much better as it maintains motivation,” she argued.
Incentives for New Recruits
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius shares Carlotta’s view. He emphasizes that the new military service law aims to encourage more youth to volunteer, with improved pay as a key incentive. Starting in early 2026, new recruits will receive a monthly wage of €2,600 ($3,000) pre-tax, in exchange for a minimum six-month service commitment.
Controversy and Consensus on Military Service
The proposal for future military service has sparked debates within the governing coalition, particularly concerning a lottery system that would randomly select individuals for service. This idea has been met with widespread disapproval, particularly from youth who feel excluded from discussions about military obligations. The “Military Service Modernization Act” is a compromise, keeping military service voluntary while introducing new requirements for young men regarding fitness and eligibility assessments starting in 2026.
Increasing Concerns Among the Youth
Critics worry that compulsory health checks could signal a shift toward reinstating full conscription. Many young people recently protested across German cities against military service, expressing their disdain for potential enforced training. Despite the current reliance on voluntary service, applications for conscientious objection have surged, reflecting a growing reluctance among young Germans to participate in military activities.
