Should young people prepare for military service?
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In September, Defence Minister Yuriko Backes sparked a wave of discussion by announcing the possibility of returning compulsory military service. However, she has now clarified that there are no plans to revive the system abolished in 1967. This decision avoids a tense political debate and keeps the focus on other defence priorities.
A bi-national intelligence battalion with Belgian participation is planned by 2028. This project reflects a strategic shift towards international co-operation and collective security.
Despite the rejection of compulsory service, the idea of mobilising voluntary civilian reserves is still under consideration. Backes has commissioned a study of this possibility, but emphasises: a decision requires consensus within the government.
Luxembourg is looking at the experience of Germany, where the concept of "Wehrdienst" - voluntary service for young people aged 18 - is being discussed. Yuriko Backes notes that such an initiative could not only attract young people to the army, but also open up new career prospects for them. However, she recognises that implementation would require significant resources, from infrastructure to trainers and equipment.
Not returning to compulsory service is not only a tactical move, but also an attempt to adapt Luxembourg's defence strategies to modern realities. The focus is on international co-operation, voluntary initiatives and engaging the younger generation through new formats of interaction with the army.
