I am for immediate conscription

Wadephul does not want to wait: "I have repeatedly advocated for immediate conscription and stand by it," emphasized the CDU politician. At the same time, he suggested that the draft bill could still be tightened in the parliamentary process. "The government has made proposals, now the parliamentary groups should negotiate and decide what the law looks like," said Wadephul.

Threat Situation as an Argument

Compulsory military service was suspended in Germany in 2011 – de facto an abolition, as civilian service also ceased and was replaced by the Federal Volunteer Service. Many security politicians now regard this step as a mistake. In view of increasing threats, several Union politicians, including defense experts, are calling for a return to conscription.

Controversial Debate in the Bundestag Expected

Wadephul's initiative is likely to further fuel the discussion. He exemplifies a growing number of politicians who see the return to conscription not only as a security policy necessity but also as a societal signal – for responsibility, defense capability, and the cohesion of the country.