Diakonie Saxony questions compulsory military service

Diaconia Saxony is critically questioning the German government's plans for new compulsory military service. "What will happen to young men who are drafted and conscripted if necessary, but refuse to serve in the armed forces because of their convictions?" explained Diakonie head Dietrich Bauer.

In Bauer's opinion, the Bundeswehr and politicians have not managed to communicate that military service is socially meaningful, despite the high pay and other benefits since the suspension of compulsory military service. Now, military service is to be revived on a seemingly voluntary basis - with compulsory conscription of young men and the possibility of so-called compulsory military service on demand.

Diakonie boss calls for better funding for voluntary services

If politicians are now strengthening military service, they must also provide voluntary services with comparably fair and attractive funding, Bauer emphasized. "These young people are involved every day in daycare centers, nursing homes, hospitals and facilities for people with disabilities. They make an indispensable contribution to our society and the common good."

Politicians from the CDU/CSU and SPD had agreed on a nationwide draft and targets for increasing the number of troops for the new military service. If the number of volunteers is too low, the Bundestag should be able to decide on a so-called compulsory military service, in which a random selection procedure can be used.