The German government recently approved a legislative proposal to create a voluntary military service programme aimed at reinforcing its army reserves.
Though the service remains optional, the plan allows for conscription to be activated in times of national emergency and with parliamentary approval.
It comes as Europe’s security climate continues to shift following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
German officials say the proposal is designed to bolster defence readiness without reintroducing mandatory service during peacetime.
The bill is still pending final approval in the Bundestag, but it’s already sparking debate across the EU.
So, what says Spain?
Despite growing security concerns across the continent, Spain has no plans to bring back mandatory military service.
According to sources at the Ministry of Defence, the topic isn’t even on the table.
Defence Minister Margarita Robles has publicly denied any possibility of reinstating the ‘mili’, Spain’s former conscription system, which ended in 2001 under the government of Jose Maria Aznar.
Even as other European nations revisit conscription models, Spain’s major political parties remain aligned in keeping military service strictly voluntary and professional.
Spain’s military currently fields around 150,000 active personnel and over 3,000 voluntary reservists, who can be activated during emergencies.
Rather than bring back conscription, the government plans to expand the professional force over the next decade.
According to the Ministry of Defence, this includes adding 14,000 new military personnel by 2035 – part of a broader strategy to adapt to evolving defence needs without compulsory enlistment.
The approach reflects Spain’s long-term commitment to a professionalised, modern armed force capable of meeting international challenges without reintroducing outdated models.
Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.
