Pressekonferenz zu Ergebnissen der Wehrdienstkommission

Welcome and Introduction

Opening Remarks

• The speaker welcomes attendees to the Ministry of Defense for the presentation of the Werdienstkommission report.

• Key figures present include Chairman Erwin Hammeseder, Vice-Chairman Dr. Walter Feichtinger, and Ferdinand Meier from the Civil Service Agency.

Presentation of Findings

Overview of Results

• The commission presents findings on mandatory military service (Werpflicht), following a public referendum where 60% supported its continuation.

• Emphasis is placed on geopolitical tensions in Europe and globally, particularly since the onset of the Ukraine war, which has altered power dynamics significantly.

Government Response

Strategic Measures

• The Austrian government has initiated a procurement program to enhance defense capabilities, including a "Build Plan 2032 Plus."

• There is an urgent need for personnel measures to ensure readiness for all operational tasks within the mobilized federal army.

Commission's Work and Recommendations

Commission Activities

• Established on July 2, 2025, by Minister Tanner based on current government programs; comprised 23 experts who held 13 meetings resulting in 49 recommendations and 41 incentive proposals.

• Focused on enhancing military readiness through various models while considering international perspectives beyond Austria's borders.

Challenges Identified

Key Issues in Defense Readiness

• Challenges analyzed include quantity (rapid mobilization), quality (training for modern combat), and responsiveness (reduced mobilization times).

• Acknowledgment that basic training must be intensified to prepare individuals for survival in contemporary battlefields alongside troop training initiatives.

Comparative Analysis with European Systems

Insights from Other Nations

• Initial sessions included comparisons with European military systems; notable trends indicate a halt in transitioning to professional armies among smaller states due to geopolitical pressures.

• Revitalization of mandatory service observed across various countries as nations seek enhanced defense capabilities amidst hybrid threats; different approaches noted such as short-term engagement programs like Croatia’s “sniffing” initiative aimed at longer-term commitment.

Integration of Women in Military Service

Overview of Military Service Obligations

• The discussion emphasizes the need for a broad perspective on military service, particularly regarding the inclusion of women.

• It highlights the importance of differentiating between various aspects of military obligations, such as presence duty and fitness assessments.

• Observations from Scandinavian countries indicate a progressive approach towards women's roles in the military, suggesting a shift in societal attitudes.

• Recommendations are made to adapt these insights for Austria's context, noting current limitations in service duration and training effectiveness.

• The existing structure is deemed insufficient to meet national defense goals, particularly concerning troop strength.

Mobilization Challenges

• The Austrian military must be prepared for rapid mobilization to fulfill state defense responsibilities effectively.

• Current training protocols focus on six months of intensive training but fail to prepare soldiers adequately for larger operational contexts.

• Emphasizing collective training exercises is crucial for enhancing overall military readiness beyond individual soldier capabilities.

• Proposals suggest integrating extended troop exercises into basic service periods to improve readiness times significantly.

• Comprehensive national defense requires collaboration across all elements, including alternative service roles.

Recommendations for Civilian Service Improvement

Enhancing Civilian Service Appeal

• The presentation outlines dual recommendations aimed at improving civilian service: adjusting duration and enhancing attractiveness.

• A significant portion of recommendations focuses on making civilian service more appealing not just for institutions but also for participants and administration.

• Changes in one system (military or civilian service duration) will impact the other due to their interconnected nature; thus, adjustments should be synchronized.

Addressing Duration Disparities

• Current ratios show 55% serving in military versus 45% in civilian roles; extending military service could skew this balance unfavorably towards civilian options.

• Legal perspectives justify equal burdens between both services; hence any changes must ensure fairness while considering benefits that civilians currently enjoy over military personnel.

Zivildienst: Empfehlungen zur Verbesserung

Verlängerung des Zivildienstes und Ausbildungsmöglichkeiten

• Die Diskussion über die Verlängerung des Zivildienstes für 18-Jährige, die ihren Zivildienst antreten, zeigt, dass dies nicht unbedingt eine Verbesserung darstellt. Dennoch gibt es Empfehlungen, einen Teil der zusätzlichen Zeit für Zusatzausbildungen zu nutzen.

• Ein erheblicher Anteil (40%) der Zivildienstleistenden arbeitet im Rettungswesen und könnte nach Abschluss ihrer Ausbildung auch das Berufsrettungssanitäter-Modul absolvieren. Dies würde ihre Qualifikationen erweitern.

• Eine längere Dienstzeit könnte den Einrichtungen helfen, die Zivildienstleistenden besser und qualitativ hochwertiger einzusetzen, was sowohl den Einrichtungen als auch den Zivis zugutekommt.

Entlastung der Verwaltung

• Aktuell werden Dienstauglichkeitsfeststellungen von Amtsärzten in überlasteten Bezirksverwaltungsbehörden durchgeführt. Es wird empfohlen, diese Feststellungen wieder von Stellungskommissionen durchführen zu lassen.

• Der Fokus soll auf die zivile Landesverteidigung zurückgeführt werden, da es in der Vergangenheit einen Anstieg an Zivildiensterklärungen gab, insbesondere nach der Abschaffung der Gewissenskommission 1992. Diese Entwicklung führte zu einer breiteren Nutzung des Zivildienstes in verschiedenen Bereichen.

Anpassungen an aktuelle Bedürfnisse

• Angesichts sinkender Geburtenraten und steigender Anforderungen an Zivildienstleistende ist es sinnvoll, sich auf spezifische Bereiche der zivilen Landesverteidigung zu konzentrieren und einige Einsatzgebiete zu reduzieren oder herauszunehmen.

• Der außerordentliche Zivildienst wurde nur einmal in den letzten 50 Jahren während Covid 2020 aktiviert; Erfahrungen aus dieser Zeit sollen nun in zukünftige Empfehlungen einfließen. Es wird empfohlen, ordentliche Zivildienstleistende frühzeitig über den außerordentlichen Dienst zu informieren und ihnen klare Handlungsanweisungen für Ernstfälle zu geben.

Kernempfehlungen zur Attraktivitätssteigerung

• Die Grunddienstzeit soll verlängert werden; dies umfasst auch verpflichtende Milizübungen ab dem Jahr 2027 sowie eine modellabhängige Verlängerung des Zivildienstes mit Anreizen für Freiwillige im Milizkader.

• Es wird angestrebt, zivile Fähigkeiten im Bundesheer anzuerkennen und umgekehrt; dies soll dazu beitragen, die geistige Landesverteidigung erheblich zu stärken und Planbarkeit für junge Männer sowie Unternehmen sicherzustellen.

Modelle zur Umsetzung

• Zwei Hauptmodelle wurden vorgestellt:

• Modell Österreich Plus: Acht Monate Grunddienst gefolgt von zwei Monaten Truppenübungen.

• Stufenmodell: Sechs Monate am Stück innerhalb von 18 Monaten mit anschließenden Truppenausbildungen und Milizübungen.

Diese Modelle sollen politische Entscheidungsträger unterstützen bei der Festlegung zukünftiger Strukturen im Zivildienstbereich.

Proposed Military Service Model in Austria

Overview of the Proposed Models

• The proposed military service duration is a minimum of 12 months, with evaluations planned for 2022 based on geopolitical developments. A more relaxed situation could lead to model adjustments, while heightened tensions would necessitate an eight-month mandatory service.

• The recommendation from the commission is the "Österreich Plus" model, which received broad support with only one dissenting vote. This model aims to effectively address both quantitative and qualitative personnel needs within the military.

Efficiency and Economic Considerations

• The "Österreich Plus" model is deemed efficient as it meets urgent personnel requirements while ensuring rapid military readiness. It also has minimal budgetary impact compared to other models, making it economically viable. Discussions with economic representatives have confirmed its practicality for future defense strategies.

• The proposal aligns with Austria's strategic culture and societal willingness to engage in national defense efforts, emphasizing the importance of political action during times of crisis. Non-action is viewed as unacceptable by the commission members.

Political Landscape and Future Evaluations

• Concerns were raised about potential political resistance from parties like SPÖ and NEOS regarding extending military service obligations, highlighting fears that proposals may be sidelined or ignored in political discourse.

• The commission emphasizes ongoing evaluations through the Defense Committee each year, with a significant review set for 2029 to assess personnel growth and necessary actions if recruitment targets are not met adequately through current models. This includes considerations for mandatory service for women as well.

Financial Implications

• A financial analysis indicates that the "Österreich Plus" model could save approximately €250 to €300 million compared to alternative models like the "Stuffmodell," underscoring its cost-effectiveness in addressing personnel expenses within military budgets. Detailed calculations are still being finalized but suggest substantial savings overall.

Introduction to the Austrian Model of Military Service

Overview of the Austrian Model

• The Austrian model requires eight months of basic service, followed by militia exercises, which differ from other models that have a shorter initial service period.

• In contrast, the alternative model involves six months of basic service and 100 days of militia exercises, where professional earnings must be compensated.

Political Decision Timeline

• A political decision is needed by early Q1 or late Q2 2027 for timely implementation of the new system starting January 1, 2027.

• Recommendations include introducing voluntary civil service for non-citizens residing legally in Austria as an integration measure.

Legislative Changes Required

Constitutional and Legal Adjustments

• Changes to legislation are necessary at both constitutional and statutory levels to implement the proposed models effectively.

• The expectation is that quicker decisions will facilitate smoother transitions into the new system by early 2027.

Cost Implications

• Estimated additional costs for full implementation range between €250 million to €300 million compared to the current system. This highlights significant financial implications for transitioning models.

Integration and Implementation Challenges

Feasibility of New System

• Concerns were raised about whether federal agencies can adapt to this new structure after decades of established systems; integration must align with budgetary constraints outlined in defense financing laws.

Civil Service Reductions

• Discussions on reducing civil service roles focus on identifying core areas essential for state resilience versus those less critical; ultimately, these decisions rest with policymakers.

Mobilization Preparedness

Future Mobilization Strategies

• Proposals suggest establishing clear mobilization protocols for civil servants so they know their roles during emergencies; data collection will be crucial in this process moving forward.

Health Assessments and Broader Implications

Health Examination Recommendations

• A recommendation exists for mandatory health examinations for young individuals (both genders) prior to military service; however, legal frameworks need development before implementation can occur around 2027.

Discussion on Military and Civil Service Reform

Importance of Early Intervention in Youth Development

• The discussion emphasizes the significance of addressing physical fitness issues in youth at an earlier age (around 16) rather than waiting until they are 18 or 19, as early intervention can lead to better outcomes.

Logistical Considerations for Implementation

• A question is raised about the logistical changes needed for a proposed military reform to begin within 11 months, including potential requirements for additional facilities and trainers.

• It is noted that a fundamental political decision must be made first, followed by an implementation plan that may include transitional regulations.

Infrastructure Readiness

• The current state of military barracks is discussed, highlighting ongoing investment programs aimed at improving infrastructure to support reforms.

• While not all accommodations will be perfect (e.g., two-bed rooms), adequate housing conditions are expected to be met.

Consensus Among Stakeholders

• There was minimal opposition (only one dissenting vote) regarding the proposed model for Austria's military service reform during discussions among commission members.

• The voting process involved both voting members and advisors, with efforts made to achieve broad consensus on recommendations.

Perspectives on Civil Service Roles

• Questions arise about the future role of civil service, particularly concerning historical responsibilities like memorial services and whether these should remain part of civil duties.

Discussion on Mandatory Militia Components

• Concerns are expressed about the lack of models without mandatory militia components; previously there were options allowing individuals to choose between different service lengths.

Constitutional Framework and Flexibility in Military Service

• The constitutional basis for organizing Austria’s military system underlines the necessity of a functional militia for national defense.

• Despite mandatory service requirements, there is acknowledgment of flexibility within the system that allows exceptions based on individual circumstances.

Recruitment Strategies and Societal Trends

• Ideas are presented about targeting students more effectively for recruitment into military roles, referencing past successful models as potential templates for future initiatives.

Current Challenges in Recruitment Rates

• A significant concern is raised regarding high non-participation rates (23%), which have increased from previous years. This trend indicates underlying societal issues that need addressing through strategic recommendations.

Discussion on National Defense and Education

The Concept of "Geistige Landesverteidigung" (Mental National Defense)

• The discussion begins with a reference to the balance between basic service and replacement service, indicating that the numbers will remain relatively stable, with 30,000 total in service.

• A question arises regarding the term "geistige Landesverteidigung," or mental national defense, and its implications for educational institutions. There is an emphasis on hybrid threats and disinformation.

• The speaker explains that mental national defense means fostering societal awareness that peace requires active participation due to existing dangers; this concept has been revitalized since 2022.

• It is crucial to instill the understanding that peace is not a natural state but something that must be actively maintained without inducing fear among citizens.

• Engaging younger generations poses challenges as they are often immersed in their own media worlds; addressing this issue is vital for future initiatives.

Impact on Individual Soldiers' Readiness

• A query about how individual soldiers' security might be affected by training frequency leads to insights about the significant impact of regular exercises versus infrequent ones.

• Regular training ensures soldiers are well-prepared for modern combat scenarios, enhancing their survival chances during actual conflicts.

• Recommendations suggest completing training by age 30 to ensure readiness; planning ahead for exercises can help mitigate knowledge decay over time.

• Emphasis is placed on adapting training programs to include new technologies like drones, highlighting the need for continuous education in rapidly evolving fields.