Cem Özdemir proposes republican year for all
Green Party politician and Federal Minister Cem Özdemir has called for a 'republican year' for all 18-year-olds. This voluntary service would be gender-neutral and offer alternatives to conscription. The idea was presented in an interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.
Cem Özdemir, Federal Minister for Food and Agriculture from the Green Party, proposed a 'republican year' for all young people from age 18 in an interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ). This initiative would apply regardless of gender and promote voluntary engagement in areas such as the military, civil defense, or social service. Özdemir stated: 'A republican year for all, regardless of gender.'
The proposal arises amid debates on reinstating conscription in Germany, intensified by the war in Ukraine. Özdemir argues that such a year could strengthen democratic values and enhance societal cohesion. 'We need more engagement in civil defense,' he said. Instead of mandatory military service, he advocates flexible models that include women.
The idea draws from concepts like France's national service or Swedish models combining civilian and military elements. Özdemir emphasized that the republican year should convey not only security but also education and community spirit. There has been no official government response yet, but the proposal could influence discussions on defense policy.
Critics might argue that voluntary engagement without clear structures is hard to implement, while supporters view it as a modern alternative to traditional conscription. Özdemir's stance reflects the Greens' position favoring a balanced security strategy without compulsion.