Germany's ruling parties strike new military-service deal

Germany's governing parties have reached a new agreement on military service reform. This follows a previous attempt that faltered due to debates on compelling young people to serve. The fresh plan mandates registration and medical screening for all 18-year-olds, with a questionnaire on service fitness.

Compulsory service would only be activated by a parliamentary vote, creating a “needs-based service duty.” The deal includes incentives for voluntary service, such as €2,600 monthly pay and benefits for long-serving volunteers. It also sets troop-growth targets aligned with NATO commitments. A draft law is expected for a parliamentary vote by year-end.