Rising Interest in Conscientious Objection as Military Service Reform Looms
Applications for conscientious objection (KDV) are seeing increased activity as debate intensifies around proposed reforms to Germany’s military service laws. Individuals born in 2008, potentially facing conscription under the proposed “Military Service Modernization act” championed by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, are increasingly seeking guidance on the application process. The Act proposes drafting men born in 2008 for military service the year after next.
Several organizations offer support to those considering KDV. The EAK (Evangelisches Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Kriegsdienstverweigerung und Frieden – Protestant Working Group for Conscientious Objection and Peace) focuses on pastoral counseling, offering advice that can even include exploring the possibility of serving in the Bundeswehr. This contrasts with groups like the DFG-VK (Deutsche Friedensgesellschaft – Vereinigte Kriegsdienstverweigerer – German Peace Society – United War Resisters) and the “Internationale of War Resisters” (IDK), which advocate for a more activist pacifism centered on disarmament and civil disobedience. The IDK recently issued a strong statement opposing the military service reform, vowing to mobilize resistance through refusal and public skepticism.
One applicant, Thomas Hall, a father, has become convinced that maintaining humanitarian standards during wartime is impossible, citing the abandonment of agreements like the Ottawa Convention banning landmines by nations bordering Russia. He now firmly believes conscientious objection is his only path.
Advice centers are currently recommending that those born in 2008 and intending to apply for KDV do so promptly as a precautionary measure. Submission of a KDV application triggers an invitation to the Musterung (military aptitude test). Refusal is only possible for those deemed fundamentally unfit for military service – a determination made by the Bundeswehr, with final decisions on KDV applications resting with the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs.
While the timing of the Musterung – now or in 2027 as proposed by Pistorius – is debated, DFG-VK managing director Michael Schulze von Glaßer argues that early application is advisable given the historically high acceptance rate. However, it’s crucial to note that a KDV application does not suspend conscription in times of heightened tension or defense.
Hall addresses concerns about relying on others for defense, stating he doesn’t wish to be a “free rider” and isn’t advocating for others to join the military.He emphasizes the personal nature of the KDV decision, ultimately concluding that his commitment lies with contributing to peace and non-violence rather than defending the homeland through military service.
