German Defence Minister Pistorius Pushes Mandatory Reserve Training

Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is set to introduce the "Reservestärkungsgesetz" to end the principle of "double voluntariness" for Bundeswehr reservists. Under the bill, reservists who have completed at least six months of voluntary service will be required to attend reserve exercises up to age 45, with longer‑served former soldiers obligated until age 65 or even 60 in a crisis.

Employers will no longer be able to veto participation; they may only request a postponement. Reservists will retain job protection, receive daily compensation (€301 for employees, €430 for self‑employed), and retain health‑insurance coverage during drills. The business community, represented by the DIHK, warned that the removal of voluntariness could strain firms and urged a voluntary start.

The law is expected to be presented to the cabinet, with the Bundestag to consider it after the summer recess.