Short answers, pulled from the story.
Germany officially suspended its system of mandatory military service on the 1st of July 2011. This decision followed a proposal made by Karl-Theodor zu Guttenberg on the 22nd of November 2010 while he served as the Minister of Defence.
Currently, only men over 18 years old can be subject to these requirements under German law. Women remain exempt from any obligation to serve with a weapon.
During their service, they received free health care and housing along with food provided at no cost. They also received railway travel passes to commute between their home and the military base.
Men who refused military duty could opt for a six-month civilian substitute service instead. Their role was defined as an honorary service rather than paid employment.
Jewish descendants up to the third generation were exempted from service through a deal between the Defense Ministry and the Central Council of Jews. By 2007, approximately 200 Jewish soldiers served voluntarily despite historical taboos against joining the military.
This law is scheduled to take effect on the 1st of January 2027 for those specific birth cohorts. Men will undergo health examinations and provide information about their motivation for potential service.