The German Bundestag has approved the government's contentious pension reform package with a narrow majority of 319 out of 597 votes, achieving the 'Chancellor's majority' sought by Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The legislation aims to stabilize the pension level at 48% of average earnings until 2031, with debates ongoing over extending this stabilization beyond that year. The vote was closely contested, with opposition from the Green Party, the Left, and the AfD, and some members of the Union's youth wing threatening to oppose it due to concerns over financial burdens on younger generations. Simultaneously, the Bundestag debated the new voluntary military service law, which has sparked protests from students and opposition parties. The law emphasizes voluntary service, with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius defending it as a necessary response to current security threats, including the Ukraine conflict. Critics, including the Left and the AfD, argue that the law effectively compels young people to serve and criticize the rushed legislation amid global crises. Heidi Reichinnek of the Left criticized the government for disregarding young people's interests and accused the Union of power plays at the expense of pensioners. The Green Party also voiced concerns about the burden on future generations. Meanwhile, the CDU's Norbert Röttgen praised the new military law as a vital step for Germany's defense capabilities. The session was marked by low attendance and protests outside the Bundestag, with many young people demonstrating against the military draft and pension reforms. The debate highlighted deep political divisions, with opposition parties warning of increased costs and social inequality, while the governing coalition emphasized the necessity of reforms for national security and social stability. The legislation is set to be enacted starting January 1, 2026, pending approval from the Bundesrat and further reforms by a future pension commission.