The CDU is convening this week in Stuttgart for its federal party congress, with Friedrich Merz expected to be re-elected as chairman. Delegates will review an extensive proposal book containing over 400 pages, which includes a variety of topics up for discussion. Among the less contentious issues, such as changes to processing times for new party member applications, lie more pressing matters including military service, which have surfaced due to proposals from both the Women’s Union and the Young Union.

One of the key points of contention is the suggestion that military service registration requirements should apply to women as well, reflecting ongoing debates about gender equality in national service. Additionally, the Women’s Union has proposed that individuals opting out of military service should justify their decisions, perhaps in a bid to ensure accountability and promote service participation in a country where military obligations are traditionally male-dominated. This shift towards a more inclusive approach to military service necessitates careful consideration of its implications for recruitment and public perception of gender roles in Germany.

Besides military service, the congress will focus on climate policies and part-time work, indicating a potential re-alignment of the CDU’s stance on these socially impactful issues. As the party looks to adapt to changing societal expectations and policy landscapes, the outcomes of this congress could significantly shape CDU’s positioning in future elections and discussions about Germany's socio-economic framework.