"Mandatory Service" Introduced for Reservists in Germany

Germany is set to take its first step toward moving away from purely voluntary military service by targeting military reservists. The draft law mandates that reservists participate in military exercises. In the event of war, compulsory military service obligations are envisioned up to the age of 60.

The new regulation eliminates the option for reservists to refuse participation in military exercises. Employers will only be granted the right to "request a deferral."

The prepared draft bill proposes that individuals who have completed at least six months of voluntary military service will be subject to reservist obligations until the age of 45.

Meanwhile, those who have completed one year or more of military service, as well as career soldiers, will be required to fulfill their reservist obligations until the age of 65.

Source: DW