Berlin: German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier on Sunday expressed his support for conducting a serious national debate on reintroducing a new form of military conscription in light of current geopolitical shifts and mounting security challenges in Europe.

According to Qatar News Agency, President Steinmeier emphasized that the discussion on compulsory military service should lead to a constructive outcome. He indicated that a modified version of military conscription could be reinstated if voluntary enlistment fails to meet the armed forces personnel requirements.

"I am in favour of compulsory military service," Steinmeier stated, highlighting the impact of the Russian-Ukrainian war and shifting US foreign policy on Europe's security landscape. He stressed that such developments necessitate bolstering Germany's defense capabilities.

The President referenced comments by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, who underlined the need to make the German military more attractive to young people. However, Steinmeier noted that voluntary enlistment alone may not suffice to meet the country's defense needs.

He also called for a broader public dialogue on military conscription, despite logistical challenges stemming from the suspension of mandatory service in 2011, including the closure of military barracks and a decline in training personnel.

Defense Minister Pistorius is reportedly planning to introduce a mechanism allowing for the compulsory enlistment of conscripts, subject to parliamentary approval in times of heightened security needs. Mandatory screening for military service is expected to begin in 2027, with a target of recruiting 15,000 new conscripts annually.

Germany suspended military conscription in 2011; however, it remains enshrined in the constitution, enabling its reinstatement through a simple parliamentary majority. Expanding conscription to include women would require a constitutional amendment.