Overview
- The Union–SPD model would require all 18-year-old men in the 2008 cohort to undergo a Musterung, with women receiving an optional questionnaire.
- Service would begin on a voluntary basis, with a Bedarfswehrpflicht—potentially using a lottery—available if too few volunteers step forward.
- A Defence Ministry spokeswoman said the screening mirrors current intake, typically lasts about six hours, and includes blood and urine samples plus a simple fitness check.
- A YouGov survey of 2,387 adults conducted Nov. 14–18 found 62% favor the screening plan, while views on a needs-based draft were more mixed at 53% in favor.
- Left party leader Jan van Aken said his party will publish advice on avoiding service, as local students in Bad Tölz voiced support for a compulsory social year and criticized gender-differentiated rules.