Associated Press
BERLIN (AP) — German lawmakers on Friday approved a government plan to attract more military recruits as the country tries to replenish the ranks of its armed forces amid growing concerns about the threat posed by Russia. The initiative also includes mandatory medical examinations for young people.
It does not allow for the reintroduction of compulsory military service, although it does leave the possibility, if necessary, for at least a limited number of people to apply.
The lower house of parliament, the Bundestag, approved the plan with 323 votes in favor, 272 against and one abstention. This is a modified version of the project approved in August by the government of Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
Germany has pledged to invest billions to modernize its military equipment after years of neglect, and the government is focused on trying to persuade more people to join the military.
It is not the only country trying to strengthen its armed forces: last week France unveiled a program to train thousands of 18- and 19-year-old volunteers starting next year. Belgium and Poland also plan to persuade their populations to study or serve.
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This story was translated from English by an AP editor using a generative artificial intelligence tool.
