The number of conscientious objectors continues to rise significantly

New military service Number of conscientious objectors continues to rise significantly As of: November 11, 2026 • 6:56 a.m

Military service remains voluntary. However, the muster for men is mandatory. The number of conscientious objectors is increasing significantly this year.

Since the so-called Military Service Modernization Act came into force in January, the number of applications for conscientious objection in Germany has increased significantly. In October alone, almost 1,900 applications were added, according to data from the Federal Office for Family and Civil Society Tasks (BAFzA), which was available to the Rheinische Post.

From January 1st to October 31st, a total of 16,869 applications for conscientious objection were received, as a spokeswoman for the BAFzA announced. The number has almost tripled since the summer: by the end of June 2026, the Federal Office had reported receipt of 5,862 applications. On September 30th, 14,977 applications were counted, as the spokeswoman said when asked.

Conscription is still suspended in Germany. And yet the number of applications for conscientious objection is increasing sharply. more

In previous years, the Federal Office had recorded far fewer applications for conscientious objection: in 2025 there were only 3,879, and in the previous year only 2,249. Applications for conscientious objection are not only submitted by reservists and active soldiers, but also by those who have not served.

Compulsory military service has been suspended in Germany since 2011. With the new law coming into force, military muster has been mandatory for men aged 18 and over since the beginning of this year. However, despite duty still being suspended, military service can still be refused as a precautionary measure for reasons of conscience in accordance with Article 4 Paragraph 3 of the Basic Law.

According to the federal government, the Military Service Modernization Act became necessary due to the new security policy situation in Europe.

Experts attribute the increased number of applications for conscientious objection to the tense security situation in view of the Russian threat. According to observers, reports of sexual misconduct in the Bundeswehr also play a role - a dark field study is to be presented later today.

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This topic in the program: The First | daily news | November 9, 2026 | 04:56