Military service 2027: How to secure your data in good time!

Military service 2027: How to secure your data in good time!

German military service policy is currently facing crucial changes. From July 1, 2011, general conscription was suspended and replaced by voluntary military service. This new regulation enables both men and women to enlist voluntarily in accordance with Section 54 of the Conscription Act. With a view to the ongoing security policy challenges in Europe, the course is being set for future personnel recruitment in the Bundeswehr.

How Adelzhausen reported, the registration authorities will transmit data to the Federal Office of Defense Administration on March 31, 2026. This data primarily concerns Germans who will come of age in 2027. This includes basic information such as family name, first name and current address. However, data subjects have the right to object to this data transfer without having to provide a reason.

New military service and principles

The new military service aims to prepare young people for possible military service without planning a full return to compulsory military service. Loud ZDF The bill stipulates that young men will have to go to military service from 2026. This measure is a response to the perceived high threat level from Russia and the need to prepare the Bundeswehr for future missions.

The number of personnel in the Bundeswehr is expected to increase significantly, as experts assume that it will have to at least double. For this it is essential to identify suitable and motivated recruits. The new Military Service Modernization Act, which is due to come into force on January 1, 2026, also requires mandatory military service for all young men born on July 1, 2027.

Military service incentives and public opinion

In order to make the new military service attractive, the Bundeswehr is offering a monthly salary of around 2,000 euros net as well as subsidies for driving licenses and free accommodation and meals. Despite these incentives, military experts fear they will not be enough to attract sufficient numbers of new soldiers. According to a survey by the ZDF political barometer, 72 percent of those surveyed are of the opinion that voluntary action will not be enough.

In addition, it is being discussed whether a general compulsory service for women should be introduced. While the Basic Law currently excludes this, surveys show that many young women would be willing to do compulsory service. In March 2025, two thirds of the young women between the ages of 18 and 34 surveyed said they could imagine general military service, which further fuels the debate.

Overall, it remains to be seen how the new regulations and public opinion on conscription and military service will develop. Incoming cohorts will need to think responsibly about their contribution to national security.