The defense ministry, led by Ursula von der Leyen, has confirmed the Bundeswehr's interest in recruiting foreign EU citizens. Photo: DPA
DW: Bundeswehr floats idea of recruiting EU citizens
Recruiting citizens of other EU nations to Germany's Bundeswehr has been floated by its top officer Eberhard Zorn as an "option." They would fill vacancies in posts such as military doctors and IT specialists.
Germany's armed forces appeared ready to break with its German nationality prerequisite for fixed-term and professional soldiers Thursday by suggesting that other EU citizens could help fill its thinned ranks.
Germany's draft of young adults was dropped in 2011, prompting the six-part Bundeswehr, including navy, air force and now cyber divisions, to launch elaborate recruitment campaigns.
Read more: German army under scrutiny for recruiting teenagers
Zorn, the Bundeswehr's general inspector, told newspapers of the Funke Mediengruppe (media group) based in Essen that, given personnel shortages, Germany "must look in all directions and seek suitable trainees."
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WNU Editor: This is actually an old idea. It was first proposed this summer .... Germany to consider EU applicants for military jobs (Politico). More here .... Germany considers recruiting foreign EU nationals to boost army (Local)
More News On Germany's Bundeswehr Wanting To Recruit EU Citizens To The Military
German army 'could recruit EU citizens' -- BBC
German army floats plan to recruit foreigners -- Reuters
German army considers recruiting other EU citizens -- The Guardian
German military considers recruiting from other EU countries -- The Telegraph
