Germany's Coalition Talks Stalled Over Mandatory Military Service Debate

SPD and CDU/CSU remain divided on reintroducing mandatory service, with alternative proposals highlighting societal and constitutional challenges.

Coalition negotiations between SPD and CDU/CSU have reached a standstill over whether to reinstate mandatory military or civil service.
The CDU/CSU supports reintroducing mandatory service to address Bundeswehr personnel shortages, while the SPD advocates for voluntary solutions.
Bundestag Wehrbeauftragte Eva Högl supports a 'Freiheitsdienst' for all citizens, emphasizing societal engagement and a 'light compulsion' approach.
Juso leader Philipp Türmer criticized mandatory service as an outdated solution, urging better pay and working conditions to attract specialized personnel.
Proposals to include women in mandatory service face constitutional hurdles, requiring amendments that lack sufficient parliamentary support.