Echoes of looming traditional security threats have not only diminished the peace in Europe but also frightened the general public, especially in Germany. Der Spiegel reported that this threat perception is escalated to such an extent that even armed force personals, Bundeswehr, are opting to quit their services.
Since Ukraine Conflict, the number of Germans leaving their services in the armed forces doubled as compared to the pre-conflict scenario.
The Federal Office for Family and Civil Society received 533 application that is twice compared to the previous year. Among 533 applicants, 508 applications were filed by either servicemen or reservists.
The number of Germans opted to quit their services in 2021 was only 209.
As per the German law “no one may be forced to perform military service against their conscience.”
Due to the human security concerns and the law providing protection to German citizens to voluntarily perform their services, most of the soldiers are unwilling to participate in the military conflict. As the Balkan region is already mired due to the Russian’s invasion, the German soldiers are reluctant to partake in the military conflict – leading them to a direct confrontation with the Russian military might. Furthermore, being a NATO member deployment in the conflict prone areas are another concern.
Des Spiegel revelations came at the time when Bundeswehr is lambasted for their lack of battle-preparedness. Earlier this month, to revamp the security apparatus German parliament approved €100 Billion for restructuring the Bundeswehr so that credible deterrence could be maintained in the region.
TAZ reported that due to pacifist orientation of the German citizens, conflicting views are emerging regarding the German’s participation in the war against Ukraine. Concerns like whether they can support the armed shipment to the Ukraine and shows disdain towards war and conflict at the same time.
Under this hindsight, a new debate has been emerged that highlights the need to reinstate compulsory military service. President Frank Walter Steinmeier has also hinted towards a compulsory service for women and men either in Bundeswehr or in social institutions, such as nursing home and homeless shelters; however, he was opposed to universal conscription.
Earlier, the new head of the Operational Command of Bundeswehr, Bernd Schutt, stated that the threat is escalating in the north-eastern flank of NATO due to Russian aggression. Therefore, mobilized alliance ground troops is imperative for the security concern of the region. He stressed: “That’s why the issue of credible deterrence in the region is very important to me. The presence of ground troops plays a key role here.”
