Minister Prien to Prepare for Possible Civil Service - Germany Weighs Bringing Back Civilian Service Amid Surge in Conscientious Objection
Federal Family Minister Karin Prien is exploring the possible return of civilian service in Germany. This comes as applications for conscientious objection have surged to their highest level since 2011. Over 3,000 people have requested exemptions from military duties this year alone.
By the end of October, 3,034 applications for conscientious objection had been submitted. This marks a sharp increase from previous years, with 1,079 requests in 2023 and 2,249 in 2024. More than half of this year’s applicants had never served in the military before.
The brainstorming session in December will shape the next steps for civilian service. If reintroduced, it would provide an alternative for those refusing military duties. The government’s decision will depend on input from associations and the ongoing demand for conscientious objection.
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