The incoming coalition of the center-right conservative Christian Democratic Party and Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) and the center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD) had called for a gradual return to conscription in Germany.

However, the Social Democrats oppose compulsory service — they favor voluntary service. That is especially true for acting Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD), who will likely retain his post in the new federal government.

Thus, the likely future German Chancellor, CDU leader Friedrich Merz, during his presentation of the coalition agreement, announced: "We will strengthen military service in Germany, following the Swedish model — at first on a voluntary basis."

Following the Swedish model would mean sending a questionnaire to all 18-year-olds in a given year. Answering the questionnaire is mandatory for men and voluntary for women and includes questions about fitness and a willingness to serve in the military. The answers will help determine who will be invited to undergo a military physical examination.

"The idea is to select those who are........

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