What might soon change regarding mandatory military service in Austria

Thursday, Oct 16, 2025

Der Standard

Germany debates reintroducing conscription amid security concerns; Austria may extend military service.

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[This is an automatically generated summary, for reference only]

The German government is debating military service, with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius aiming to implement compulsory conscription due to the need for more soldiers following the war in Ukraine. While a reform was agreed upon by the coalition last year, there is still disagreement among partners on how to increase troop strength. In Austria, where mandatory military service has not been abolished, discussions are occurring about extending basic military service and reintroducing compulsory militia exercises.

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