Germany aims to increase its armed forces to 260,000 active soldiers by the mid-2030s, with women making up 20% of personnel.

But while female recruitment is rising, many young women remain reluctant to join the Bundeswehr, citing opposition to war, concerns about sexism and conflicts with education or career plans.

Experts and lawmakers say improving representation, tackling harassment and discrimination, and making military service more compatible with family life are key to attracting and retaining more women.