Overview

• The Green Party's 'Freiheitsdienst' proposes a six-month mandatory service for all citizens aged 18 to 67, covering military, civil protection, or social services.
• Eva Högl, Bundestag's military commissioner, supports the proposal but suggests a 'light compulsion' model blending mandatory and voluntary elements.
• The SPD and CDU/CSU remain divided, with the SPD backing voluntary service inspired by Sweden's model and the CDU/CSU pushing for reinstating conscription.
• Youth organizations like the Jusos, led by Philipp Türmer, oppose mandatory service, calling it outdated and ineffective for addressing Bundeswehr's personnel needs.
• Legal hurdles, including the need for constitutional amendments to include women in mandatory service, create significant barriers to implementation.