In Germany, citizens are refusing military service en masse

A surge in conscientious objectors began after the new military service law came into effect. The military has sent out 450,000 questionnaires to 18-year-old citizens! However, compulsory conscription remains suspended.

From January to August 2026, 12,102 applications for refusal of military service were filed in Germany—more than triple the number for the entire year of 2025 (3,879 cases). It is projected that by the end of 2026, the number could reach 20,000!

The Bundeswehr requires personal and individual justification for refusing military service. The internet has immediately been flooded with templates, instructions, and advisory services to help write them. This has led to widespread public opposition against the army and German military institutions.