New military service rules - Young Germans facing a tough decision | DW Documentary

Описание: In the event of war, would you take up arms for your country? Since military service reforms came into effect in January 2026, young Germans are once again faced with this question.

That's because every 18-year-old German male is obliged to answer questions about serving in Germany’s military, the Bundeswehr, and must undergo a mandatory physical examination. The move is part of efforts to recruit more personnel.

Elias has just turned 18. A few days after celebrating his birthday, he receives a letter requiring him to complete a questionnaire for the Bundeswehr, what’s known as a "declaration of readiness". While he does think a stronger military is important, he can't imagine serving in the army himself.
Tom, on the other hand, hopes the military might offer him a career path. The 16-year-old already volunteers with the German Red Cross. At a careers fair, he explores career opportunities within the armed forces - from being a paramedic to becoming an officer.

Two other young Germans, Max and Neo, are firmly against the new military service rules. They’re helping to organize a nationwide school strike in protest - calling for greater investment in education instead.

This documentary looks at the different ways young people are reacting to the changes, from approval and aspiration to rejection and protest. Either way, it’s clear that the new military service reform is having a direct impact on a generation of Germans.

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