Reservist symposium in Dresden: European security strategies in focus!

Reservist symposium in Dresden: European security strategies in focus!

Amid geopolitical tensions and a changing security environment, the first Reserve Forces Symposium hosted by the Reservist Association took place in Dresden last weekend. More than 60 representatives from ten countries, including scientists, (reserve) officers and chairmen of reserve associations, came together to discuss the “Geopolitical Challenges in Eastern Europe and the Interoperability of Reserve Forces”. The aim of the symposium was to strengthen Europe's military resilience and improve cooperation between reserves, which is very important in view of current global political developments. As the reservist association describes, the event was considered a complete success because it enabled participants to discuss openly across national borders.

The opening speech was given by Sascha Rahn, Vice President for International Cooperation, followed by Jørn Buø, President of CIOR, who emphasized the important role of reservists in a volatile world situation. Provided their training and integration are up to date, the reserve can make a decisive contribution to security. On Saturday in particular, the focus was on in-depth technical discussions. Dr. Jan Kofroň discussed the possibilities of reintroducing conscription in Europe and the associated challenges. Such considerations are again relevant in view of the changed security situation in Europe, especially since Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.

Discussion on compulsory military service

The debate about returning to compulsory military service is also gaining momentum in this country. In Germany there is a clear need for more soldiers to meet NATO's requirements. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius sees a need for 50,000 to 60,000 additional active soldiers. In his opinion, however, there are no plans to return to the old conscription, although the coalition is busy creating the conditions for a possible obligation. Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil confirms this and emphasizes that the Bundeswehr relies on voluntariness, while Thorsten Frei from the Chancellery is calling for a quick decision on troop expansion in order to reach the target of 230,000 to 240,000 soldiers.

The Junge Union warns, however, that the gap created by voluntary action cannot be closed. Juso boss Philipp Türmer argues that reintroducing compulsory military service would overwhelm the Bundeswehr. The dropout rate in the army is currently 30%, which indicates inadequate working conditions. The coalition is trying to establish a new, attractive military service on a voluntary basis, which many experts believe represents a major challenge. Military historian Sönke Neitzel doubts that the desired goals can be achieved without compulsory participation.

Technological challenges

The symposium also discussed new technologies, digitalization, drone defense and cyber warfare. One of the crucial questions was the impact of the technology-driven battlefield on reservists. It became clear that the reservists need to be equipped with modern skills, particularly in the areas of drone defense and cyber security. This is particularly important to ensure military resilience and interoperability of armed forces in Europe.

The symposium took place under Chatham House Rule, which encouraged open exchange; The participants expressed the desire to continue these discussions and intensify cooperation. It seems like there is an interesting period of developments in the air that will affect both the reservists and the Bundeswehr. Until concrete changes occur, it remains to be seen how the political discussions will develop.