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Rising Fears of War drive Surge in German Conscientious Objector Applications
as debate intensifies over potential military conscription,a growing number of Germans are seeking guidance on refusing to bear arms,citing concerns about escalating global tensions and teh potential for their involvement in future conflicts.
The discussion surrounding Germany’s potential reintroduction of mandatory military service is unsettling many, according to peace organizations witnessing a dramatic increase in inquiries. “These discussions and the uncertainty of what might come next are unsettling many people,” stated a representative from the Evangelical Working Group for Conscientious Objection and Peace (EAK). the organization has seen a tripling in the need for advice compared to the period before the war in Ukraine, with calls coming from concerned parents and young adults alike.
Many are questioning the validity of previous conscientious objection applications (KDV applications) or seeking details on how to avoid potential conscription. The German Peace Society – United War Resisters (DFG-VK), the contry’s oldest peace society, reports being “flooded” with inquiries. In September, the organization’s website registered approximately 125,000 hits, a critically important jump from the 55,000 hits in August and roughly double the number recorded in May.
The surge in interest translates to a substantial increase in formal KDV applications. While official figures are not yet available for 2023, the Federal Office for Family Affairs and Youth Services reported 678 applications in 2022, a 40% increase from the 484 applications received in 2021. This trend is expected to continue, especially if the Military Service Modernization Act passes, potentially reinstating mandatory service for those born in 2008.
One applicant, identified as Hall, a former reservist, exemplifies the motivations driving this increase. His initial willingness to serve was shaken by experiences during his military training,where he observed a mindset where individuals are more likely to view others as enemies,diminishing the inhibition to use violence.Seeking to avoid this mindset, he requested a transfer to a non-armed division.
these personal experiences are considered significant when evaluating a KDV application. Reservists like Hall,according to Pastor Martin Tontsch,will likely need to provide more extensive justification for their decision,having already demonstrated a willingness to serve through their prior military service. Though, the general hurdles for submitting an application are relatively low.
Refusal to serve with weapons is a fundamental right enshrined in Article 4(3) of the German constitution, which states: “No one may be forced into military service with weapons against their conscience.” The Conscientious Objection Act provides further detail, requiring applicants to demonstrate a credible and thorough explanation of why armed service conflicts with their deeply held beliefs.The sincerity of the conscience decision is paramount, irrespective of external opinions.
For Hall, his motivations are rooted in more recent experiences. A visit to the Hiroshima memorial in Japan profoundly impacted his viewpoint. He was deeply disturbed by “the banality with which hundreds of thousands of people fell victim to the US Air Force.” He believes that sacrificing lives for even seemingly noble goals, such as ending world War II, is unacceptable. “Who guarantees that Hiroshima remains a singular event?” he questioned, highlighting the inherent risk of justifying violence in pursuit of broader objectives.
As Germany prepares for the potential return of mandatory military service – with those born in 2008 slated to be mustered beginning the year after next, should the Military Service Modernization Act pass – the demand for guidance on conscientious objection is expected to continue to rise. Individuals submitting a KDV application will be invited to the muster, and the Bundeswehr will determine their suitability for service before the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs makes a final decision on their application.
However, in a state of heightened tension or defense, a KDV application carries no suspensive effect.
Michael Schulze von Glaßer, political managing director of the DFG-VK, argues that the timing of the muster – whether now or in 2027 as proposed by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius – should not deter applicants. He points to the historically high acceptance rate as a reason to apply early, anticipating a further surge in applications once the new law is enacted.
The fundamental question of refusing to use a weapon remains a complex one. Hall acknowledges the argument that others might defend his family and property in a crisis. “I don’t want to be a free rider,” he said, clarifying that he is not advocating for others to join the military. He believes that a society must accommodate both those who participate and those who refuse, recognizing that a KDV application is a deeply personal decision of conscience.
