In the dynamic landscape of global security, conscription stands as a cornerstone of Europe's strategy, essential for addressing evolving threats and safeguarding transatlantic security interests. By bolstering military capability, fostering international alliances, and mitigating demographic challenges, conscription emerges as a pragmatic tool for ensuring collective defense, social cohesion, solidarity, and resilience in the face of multifaceted security challenges.

In the complex geostrategic landscape of the 21st century, ensuring the security of nations has become an intricate puzzle, with each piece contributing to the larger picture of global stability. One such piece that has played a crucial role in Europe's security architecture is conscription. Though controversial in some countries, conscription remains a necessity for international security in the European context. With reference to the example of Germany, this article will provide insight into not only the necessity of conscription, but also why the suspension of mandatory military service has been less than beneficial. 

 

Debating the benefits of conscription​

Conscription has deep roots in European history. Many nations and empires have relied on this practice to build robust defence forces, dating back to times of conflict involving the creation of standing armies from antiquity, and modern forms in Europe from the 16th and 17th centuries through to the era of the two World Wars and beyond. While conscription waned in popularity during the latter half of the 20th century, the resurgence of security threats in recent years has prompted a reconsideration of its merits. Europe faces a diverse array of security challenges ranging from traditional state-based threats to the activities of non-state actors and cyber warfare. In an era marked by uncertainty and unpredictability, conscription becomes a vital tool for ensuring that nations are adequately prepared to respond to any form of aggression. Specifically, however, Russia's assertive actions in Eastern Europe, in combination with the rise of extremist ideologies, have put a significant strain on Europe’s security architecture. 

Conscription is surrounded by a cloud of controversy in many European countries due to several factors. First and foremost, it is argued that conscription is a violation of individual freedom and personal autonomy. In Germany’s case, there is the additional fear of militarisation as a consequence of historical factors, as its armed forces and the idea of the ‘citizen in uniform’ underwent a major transformation after the end of the Second World War. Furthermore, there have been shifts in the security landscape, security dynamics, gender equality concerns, economic considerations, and differing views on the role of the military in society. These debates reflect the complex interplay of historical, cultural, and political factors unique to each nation. Last but not least, the increase in comfortable lifestyles in the 21st century has significantly contributed to this debate – and with it a societal drift away from the classic security challenges that a nation faces. 

 

Enhancing military capability

Conscription not only increases the quantity of available military personnel but also contributes to the overall quality of the armed forces. Mandatory military service ensures a broad pool of recruits, fostering diversity in skills, backgrounds, and experiences. This diversity enriches the military with a range of perspectives, ultimately strengthening its adaptability and effectiveness. In the war in Ukraine, it has become very apparent that one of the main resources needed in a conflict of this kind is the human component, of which the numbers on both sides are constantly dwindling. The importance of having a sufficient number of soldiers is often neglected but should not be underestimated. 

Furthermore, conscription promotes a sense of national duty and unity among citizens. By participating in mandatory military service, individuals develop a deeper connection to their country, instilling a sense of responsibility for its defence. This shared commitment builds a resilient and cohesive society, which is essential for confronting the multifaceted challenges that modern Europe faces. With the suspension of mandatory military service in Germany in 2011, a step backward was taken. To policymakers at the time, it seemed sensible; Germany was surrounded by friendly neighbouring countries and no direct military threat was present. Downsizing subsequently took place, in all possible forms – including selling military property, and lending or leasing it out to the state or private companies. In the words of the current defence minister of Germany, Boris Pistorius, the suspension of compulsory military service was a mistake. He goes on to say that for thirty years not enough investment had been made in the armed forces, and that this is something that must change immediately – including a reintroduction of some form of compulsory service. This service, in turn, does not only apply to the military sector, but also to healthcare, social services, and other social organisations. Through this way of thinking, military capabilities are no longer bound to the military alone; they also comprise a vast proportion of the civilian infrastructure, which needs to be involved in turn. This brings us to the next point: the international and holistic strengthening of alliances. 

 

Global partnerships and alliances

The border of the European Union is a strategic defence line that coincides with NATO’s borders. Keeping those borders secure against threats is a priority for transatlantic security. Conscription, and its proposed counterpart of compulsory service for men and women, would also play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and solidarity among European nations. In an interconnected world where security threats often transcend borders, a shared commitment to conscription enhances the ability of nations to work together seamlessly in times of crisis. The interoperability of conscripted forces facilitates joint military operations, strengthening alliances and ensuring a united front against common adversaries. Some examples of these are the tank divisions operated by the Netherlands and Germany, now merged into the joint Panzerbataillon 414 – which was founded in 2016 and became fully operational in 2019 – or the more recent decision to permanently station five thousand German soldiers in Lithuania. These alliances are based on a strategic decision to deepen cooperation and functionality. 

 

Counteracting demographic challenges

Europe is grappling with demographic challenges, including declining birth rates and an aging population. Conscription would address this demographic imbalance by engaging a broader age range of people/citizens in military service. This would not only bolster the manpower available for defence but also contributes to social cohesion by fostering intergenerational understanding and cooperation. Manpower on its own, though, is an argument in favour of conscription: time and again it has been shown that despite changes in the character of warfare conducted on modern battlefields, manpower is the one thing necessary to keep up a resisting defence. Taking a step back from insurgency and counterinsurgency and looking at the conventional battle on the ground - such as is the case in Ukraine right now - it is evident that despite the advancement in technology and the routine use of drones, one of the key elements in being able to withstand an onslaught from an aggressor nation is the conscription of a more diverse population from a broader age range. 

 

Conclusion

Conscription remains a vital component of Europe's strategy for ensuring international security in the face of evolving threats. As it navigates the complex landscape of global security, conscription stands out as a pragmatic and strategic tool for safeguarding the collective interests of the continent. It could be, however, also a tool for understanding a change in the societal zeitgeist, heavily influenced by external factors such as new and ongoing conflicts. This has to be taken into account when weighing the pros and cons of this strategy. Given the current situation that Europe faces, with threats emanating from outside and within, the value of conscription remains unchallenged – even in times of relative peace. 

Johann Kattenstroth is a current PhD Student of International Security, with a focus on European Intelligence cooperation. Current active Reserve Soldier formerly in active service in the German Armed Forces and former paramedic, turned graduate of Risk and Security Management and of a Masters degree in International Security and Development. Operations associate at a South African commercial intelligence and risk management firm.