Elevating Troop Numbers: The Long Road Ahead for Germany
Military Compulsory Service Is Not the Solution's Key Point Explained
The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has announced a major military reinforcement, aiming to expand German forces by a staggering 60,000 troops. However, the current shrinking force presents a significant challenge. Intriguingly enough, some Norwegian parents are reportedly disappointed when their children are not drafted, according to Finnish military expert Minna Ålander. But is conscription the solution Germany needs? Let's delve into the experts' insights.
Interviewing Minna Ålander:
ntv.de: Mrs. Ålander, will 60,000 armed forces members prove adequate for Germany's future responsibilities within NATO?
Minna Ålander: The German military is struggling to recruit new personnel, and a number of 60,000 might be feasible for Germany. However, whether this is sufficient truly depends on several factors, such as the pace at which the USA reduces its military presence in Europe and the evolving threat landscape.
Will conscription provide a quick fix?
Regrettably, conscription won't offer immediate assistance. The first results could be observed in at least five, realistically ten or fifteen years. Furthermore, the necessary infrastructure is lacking, with a shortage of trainers being a pressing concern. The German military is already stretched thin, with commitments in places like Lithuania and the forthcoming NATO structure, meaning additional personnel could further strain resources.
The Scandinavian Approach:
Let's illustrate this with Sweden, which reintroduced conscription in 2017. Today, they can train roughly 8,000 additional personnel annually. It's an improvement, but barely sufficient. Norway also faces issues, boasting too many applicants, leaving parents unhappy when their children can't perform their military service due to a lack of available spots. The Norwegian army currently trains 4,000 to 5,000 conscripts annually, falling short compared to their Scandinavian neighbor.
Prioritizing the Image of the Bundeswehr:
Instead of focusing on conscription, it's crucial to first address the Bundeswehr's negative image and increase its societal acceptance. While there's been some progress, more efforts are needed in this regard. Encouraging young people to choose the Bundeswehr as a career option should be a priority.
Embracing the Idea of Civil Defense:
For Germany, the concept of civil defense could be a promising way forward. Rather than forcing young individuals into the army, it's essential to educate citizens about their duties and the importance of their contribution to common security. This approach could improve the image of the Bundeswehr and create a more socially acceptable defense model.
Moving Beyond Conscription:
Enhanced recruitment efforts, attractive benefits, modernization, international cooperation, reintegration programs, cultural engagement, and increased social awareness are some strategies that can help bolster the ranks of the Bundeswehr without resorting to conscription. Each of these strategies addresses the various challenges faced by the Bundeswehr and offers a potential path toward increasing the number of professional soldiers.
- The German government may need to consider multiple strategies to address its military force needs, as the implementation of conscription might not provide immediate assistance and could take at least five years to show results.
- As Norway grapples with a shortage of training spots for conscripts, Germany might find it more advantageous to prioritize the image of the Bundeswehr and increase its societal acceptance, minimizing the need for conscription and instead encouraging young people to choose a career in the military.
