Fewer than one out of every six individuals would be willing to defend Germany in any scenario
According to a recent Forsa survey, German citizens show notable concerns and divided opinions regarding military service and potential defense crises. The survey, conducted among approximately 1,000 citizens in December 2023, reveals a growing awareness of defense issues among Germans following the Ukraine war, but a skepticism about Germany’s military readiness and the need for compulsory service.
The survey results indicate that more than a quarter (27 percent) of Germans believe it is very or rather likely that Germany will be militarily attacked in the next five years. However, a clear majority, 59 percent, of Germans would be probably not or not at all ready to defend Germany in a military attack. This sentiment is particularly strong among women, with 72 percent expressing reservations. On the other hand, one in six Germans are ready to take up arms for their country in a defense crisis. Another 22 percent are likely to do so in their own estimation.
The survey did not indicate whether the respondents were military personnel or civilians, nor did it provide a breakdown of the responses based on gender. Furthermore, it did not specify the countries involved in the potential military attack or aid scenario, nor did it provide information about the timeframe or context of the potential military attack or aid scenario.
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The overall context of the survey suggests that German citizens are concerned but cautious about defense expansion and military engagement, balancing historical pacifist tendencies and current security demands.
- As the survey results demonstrate, concerns about war-and-conflicts and potential defense crises persist among Germans, with a significant number expressing skepticism and reservations about military readiness and compulsory service.
- The survey also reveals that the topic of politics, particularly in relation to military actions and general news such as defense issues, has become a subject of growing interest among German citizens following the Ukraine war.
