German conservatives, aiming to strengthen the country’s military following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, have voted to reinstate compulsory military service.

The CDU-CSU alliance, Germany’s largest opposition party, approved a motion from its youth wing at a conference, proposing a temporary return to conscription.

This decision comes amid plans to introduce a year of mandatory community service for young people, which could involve military or civil work.

The resolution suggests that the German army would annually determine its manpower needs, calling up eligible citizens accordingly.

Advocates argue that compulsory service is a necessary measure to address the Bundeswehr’s personnel shortages, Barron’s reported.

Germany suspended conscription in 2011, but the conflict in Ukraine has sparked renewed discussions on national service.

The move aims to address recruitment challenges and send a clear message about Germany’s commitment to defense.

Written by B.C. Begley