In German Bavaria, students announced mass protests. On December 5, they planned not to go to class on the day the Bundestag will consider updated legislation on modernizing military service.
On the protest website, the organizers stated: they oppose any form of conscription. Demonstrations are being prepared in Munich, Nuremberg, Augsburg and several small cities. The participants were unhappy because the decision was made without their input. The appeal stated that the teenagers “did not want to spend six months in barracks” where they would be taught discipline and military matters. Students call war a threat to the future and believe it “destroys the foundations of life.”
This idea is supported by education union GEW. However, the Ministry of Culture warns: participating in political activities cannot be a reason for leaving school. Exemption from classes for this reason is prohibited.
The amendment bill concerns the return of military registration elements. From 2026, all young citizens will be sent a questionnaire about their desire to serve in the Bundeswehr – mandatory for men and voluntary for women. Suitable candidates will be introduced for selection.
From July 1, 2027, mandatory medical examinations will apply to all 18-year-old men, regardless of their decision to serve. If there is a shortage of volunteers, the Bundestag will be able to use a “service as needed” mechanism, including random selection.
The size of the German armed forces has decreased for the second year in a row. With a target of 203 thousand soldiers, the actual number as of March 2025 is about 182 thousand. The new reform was supposed to fix the situation but was met with huge opposition from students.
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