Kretschmer criticizes lottery system in military service debate - Germany's Military Service Law Debate Begins: Lottery System Proposed, Critics Call for Consensus
The debate over Germany's new military service law began in the Bundestag on Thursday. The main point of contention is how to address potential volunteer shortages for the Bundeswehr.
Union and SPD politicians proposed a lottery system to draft young men as an alternative. However, Saxony's Minister President Michael Kretschmer (CDU) criticized this proposal, deeming it unproductive. Kretschmer argued that Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) and his ministry had not sufficiently engaged the public in the debate. Pistorius, however, showed openness to compromise, finding the lottery system proposal 'okay'.
Kretschmer believes the return of conscription has been 'wrongly framed' from the start. He thinks the focus should be on encouraging more people, including young men and women, to participate in service to their country, rather than imposing a top-down solution.
The debate on Germany's new military service law continues, with the lottery system proposal sparking controversy. Kretschmer's call for a societal consensus and increased participation in national service may shape future discussions.
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