| Summary/Abstract |
In the years following the Cold War, European states scrambled to downsize and reorganize their militaries to reflect the new geopolitical environment. As a part of this transformation, virtually every NATO member suspended or phased out conscription. This article discusses the strategic rationale behind Germany's decision to end conscription while comparing it with Norway's decision to enhance the draft. In recent years, Norway has refined its defense strategy and shifted its focus away from territorial defense. Nevertheless, territorial defense remains a priority in Norwegian defense policy and conscription enables Norway to expand its territorial presence, maintain a total defense doctrine, and guarantee a stable level of military manpower.
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