A civilian society distinguishes itself from one dominated by the military, among other things, by the fact that this question is decided by politicians, and not the military. The Federation, which originally represented soldiers in legal questions concerning their military service and social rights, along the lines of a trade union, is now mobilising its members as a lobby for an increase in defence expenditures. The full significance of the demonstration is revealed when it is placed within the context of current foreign and defence policy discussions. The view is becoming generally accepted that Germany must apply greater force to promote its national interests on the world stage. The Bundeswehr itself does not stand outside these discussions.
Foreign policy can only be self-confident if it is backed by militarily force.
However, the ascent into the premier military league requires an enormous increase in military expenditure, something on which all experts agree. This is where the political problems begin. Public opinion is not prepared for such an increase in defence expenditure, while at the same time social expenditures and pensions are being drastically trimmed. However, the cuts are not nearly as high in military expenditure as has been indicated. Much has simply been transferred into other budget areas, as, for example, the entire cost of the Kosovo War.