Rethinking Pacifism: A Call for Defense

Winfried Kretschmann, the Minister-President of Baden-Württemberg, advocates for a significant increase in defense spending in Germany and Europe. He argues that true pacifism now requires nations to be prepared for defense rather than to remain passive.

Kretschmann's perspective emphasizes the necessity of military readiness while simultaneously fostering a longing for peace to prevent a regression into militarism. He also proposes a mandatory year of service for young individuals to engage with societal responsibilities, intertwining civic duty with defense.

This stance contrasts with views from leaders like Lars Klingbeil of the SPD, who questions the need for compulsory military service. The discourse extends to religious leaders grappling with the moral implications of supporting military actions, reflecting a broader societal debate on the balance between peace and preparedness.