Opinion Poll: One-Third of Germans Willing to Serve in Military Today, Finds Unnamed Survey
Approximately a third of individuals would enlist in service nowadays.
Facebook Twitter Whatsapp E-Mail Print Copy Link In a mystery poll by the Insa institute, only a third of Germans would sign up for military service, with the remaining half opting for civilian service. The findings were disclosed by "Bild," based on the unnamed survey.
When it comes to their offspring, a larger proportion of respondents back the idea of conscription. Approximately 47% think it's a smart move, compared to 34% who consider it a poor choice. Support is more prevalent among Union and SPD voters and senior citizens aged 70 and above, making up around 58% of the combined total. A majority also supports the idea of drafting women, with 53% in favor, while 34% stand opposed.
A majority think military service should be more appealing. Around 60% of respondents advocate for incentives like priority access to study or training slots or additional qualifications during service, such as a free driver's license. The data comes from Insa's survey of 1,003 participants between June 12 and 13.
CDU/CSU leader Jens Spahn has called for planning the reintroduction of conscription. The SPD group in the Bundestag offered cautious remarks, while the coalition agreement between the Union and SPD mentions "a new appealing military service that initially relies on volunteering." However, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) has emphasized that the agreement's voluntariness only applies if recruitment goals can be met without conscription.
Although the exact Insa polling details remain unclear, existing sources shed light on the broader sentiments:
- Perspectives on Military Service: A growing problem seen among young people is the reluctance to join the military. One report reveals a decline in the percentage of young people viewing the military as an attractive employer, from 69% in 2018 to 49% in 2024. Many young people question the military's capacity to protect the country, and few would choose to enlist.
- Conscription Controversy: Discussions about reintroducing conscription have intensified in recent times, particularly as volunteer recruitment has fallen short of defense targets. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has hinted that conscription could be reintroduced if volunteer numbers remain low. However, reintroducing conscription may require parliamentary supermajorities and faces significant resistance.
- Public Concerns and Security: Surveys show that a significant portion of Germans are concerned about the security situation, especially the risk of conflict with Russia. However, there is strong opposition to remilitarization and increased military expenditure, especially from parties like the Left and AfD. Many individuals prioritize peace and are hesitant to participate in missions that escalate military involvement.
Given the current context in Germany, there appears to be a mix of skepticism about the military, unwillingness to serve, and ongoing debate about strengthening national defense capabilities.
In the case of a Member State, the competent authorities shall analyze the ongoing debates on national defense capacities, policy-and-legislation concerning conscription, and public sentiments about military service, politics, and general news portraying the Germans' willingness to serve in the military. It is crucial to study the shift in perception towards the military among the youth, the controversy surrounding the reintroduction of conscription, and the citizens' concerns regarding security and remilitarization.
