Germany introduces controversial new military service law, with powers including needs-based conscription

Germany will reintroduce voluntary military service after a controversial new law was passed through the Bundestag.

The legislation approved by the German parliament on Friday introduces a dual-track system, offering a more lucrative voluntary military service intended to attract young recruits.

However, if enlistment falls short, the bill allows for needs-based conscription to be introduced. This would require a separate vote in parliament, and could involve random selection if more citizens are eligible than needed.

All 18-year-olds in Germany will now be sent a request in January asking if they are interested and willing to join the country's army.

It's planned to be mandatory for men to respond and, in a move not seen since Germany suspended conscription in 2011, will see all men born after 1 January 2008 undergo medical evaluation, phased in as capacity allows.

The bill sets expansion goals for the Bundeswehr, meaning federal defence, with a target of up to 260,000 active soldiers - up from 183,000 currently - and at least 200,000 reservists by 2035.

German defence minister Boris Pistorius told lawmakers that "our allies are looking at Germany" and argued that the country has become a "pacesetter for defence in Europe".

He added that with the new legislation, "we are taking a further decisive step for our defence capability".

However, the decision has already been met with protests by young people, with opposition politicians calling for further action.

The Left Party's Desiree Becker said young people should "strike against the reintroduction of conscription" and inform themselves about conscientious objection.

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It comes after French president Emmanuel Macron unveiled a new military service plan to boost its armed forces in response to the threat posed by Russia.

Volunteers aged 18 and 19 will start serving next year in a 10-month military service programme, in France's mainland and overseas territories only.

France had ended conscription in 1996 and is not considering reintroducing it.

Mr Macron told French media: "There is a generation ready to rise up for the fatherland. We cannot go back to the time of conscription, but we need mobilisation.

"Our young people will have to participate in at least one commemorative ceremony per year in each school.

"We will encourage students to complete their second-year internships in our armed forces."

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