Crises
Stark-Watzinger for civil defense exercises at schools
Federal Education Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger emphasizes the importance of civil protection – also in schools. photo
© Oliver Berg/dpa
According to the Education Minister, schools should prepare better for crises such as pandemics or war – and develop a “relaxed relationship with the Bundeswehr”.
Stark-Watzinger spoke out in favor of holding civil defense exercises in schools. She referred to Great Britain. “Disaster drills are part of everyday life in schools there. We can learn from that,” said the minister. Young people must be aware of the threats to freedom and be able to deal with the dangers. This doesn’t have to be a separate school subject, but it does have to be a learning content.
The minister called on schools to develop a “relaxed relationship with the Bundeswehr”. “I think it is important that youth officers come to schools and report what the Bundeswehr is doing for our security,” said the FDP politician. She cannot understand that there are reservations.
Stark-Watzinger rejects a return to compulsory military service. She called the debate about a general compulsory service “currently misguided”. Compulsory military service was suspended because it was no longer constitutionally acceptable. One should not distract from what is really necessary at the moment, namely equipping the Bundeswehr so that it is capable of defending itself.