The Berlin Office of the Polish Institute of International Affairs (PISM)
and the Aspen Institute Germany
will host an Oxford-style debate in the German Bundestag
as part of the International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS) of the German Bundestag
on the topic:

Should Germany Introduce Mandatory Military Service?

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23 July 2026, 15:00–17:00
German Bundestag, Berlin [PLH, Europasaal]
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In light of growing security challenges in Europe, Germany is engaged in an intensive debate on the future of military service. The discussion focuses on the personnel needs of the Bundeswehr, societal resilience, and whether the reintroduction of mandatory military service is the right response to emerging threats.

Supporters argue that compulsory service would contribute to strengthening the armed forces, increasing civic engagement, and reinforcing social cohesion. Critics, however, highlight concerns regarding individual freedoms, the effectiveness of such a measure, and the potential of alternative approaches, including more attractive voluntary service programs.

The Oxford-style debate, organized within the framework of the International Parliamentary Scholarship of the German Bundestag, is a joint initiative of the Berlin Office of the Polish Institute of International Affairs (PISM) and the Aspen Institute Germany. The event will bring together two teams of selected IPS scholars who will debate the question of whether Germany should introduce mandatory military service. Participants will present opposing perspectives, engage with counterarguments, and demonstrate their debating skills before an audience and an expert jury composed of representatives from politics, the armed forces, and strategic analysis.

The event will provide an opportunity to explore one of the most important challenges in German security policy from different perspectives, while experiencing an internationally recognized debate format in the unique setting of the German Bundestag.

This event is by invitation only and will be held in German.