Overview
- The Bundesamt für Familie und zivilgesellschaftliche Aufgaben recorded 1,363 conscientious objection applications by June 30, compared with 951 in 2022, 1,079 in 2023 and 2,241 in 2024, projecting about 2,726 filings for 2025.
- Reservists make up the largest share of applicants, reflecting particular resistance within the military’s reserve component.
- The proposed Wehrdienstgesetz offers six- or twelve-month voluntary service but includes a conscription trigger if recruitment targets are not met.
- Minister Boris Pistorius aims to bring the draft law to the Cabinet by late August and launch the revamped service in spring 2026.
- The Basic Law’s Article 4(3) continues to protect the right to refuse armed service on grounds of conscience even if conscription is reactivated.