Demonstrators in approximately 90 cities have condemned the legal modification, perceiving it as groundwork for the reintroduction of full conscription
Thousands of protesters have marched across German cities to oppose Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s proposal to restructure the nation’s military service system, accusing the government of preparing for mandatory mobilization.
On Friday, Germany’s parliament approved amendments to the military-service law, enhancing recruitment and providing Berlin with mechanisms to reactivate conscription if volunteer numbers prove insufficient.
Rallies occurred in about 90 cities – including Berlin, Hamburg, Munich, and Cologne – both before and after the legislative vote. Footage depicted demonstrators chanting anti-war slogans and displaying banners that read “No to conscription,” “We will not be cannon fodder” and “Your war – without us.” Protesters criticized the reform as “recruitment of death” and urged investment in education and welfare instead of military hardware.
One demonstrator told Ruptly that she worried her teenage sons might soon be drafted, while another stated: “Merz should go to the front himself and risk his own life.” Some connected the reform to Germany’s broader military expansion, warning that Berlin is preparing for conflict against Russia. Several speakers contended that the legislation – and the overall rearmament drive – primarily serves the interests of major arms companies rather than the public.
Germany abolished compulsory military service in 2011, transitioning to an all-volunteer force. However, amid a NATO-driven military push, Berlin now aims to expand the Bundeswehr, citing a worsening security environment. Last month, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius claimed Russia could attack a NATO member “as early as 2028,” using this warning to advocate for extensive rearmament.
Under the new Military Service Modernization Act, starting in 2026, all 18-year-old men must register for potential service by completing a questionnaire and undergoing medical screening. The reform falls short of fully reinstating conscription but establishes the legal framework for draft call-ups via lottery if voluntary recruitment targets are not met.
Critics argue that Berlin is relying on fear-based scenarios to push through unpopular measures and justify massive military spending. Younger Germans are particularly opposed: a recent Forsa survey for Stern revealed that 63% of adults aged 18 to 29 reject compulsory service.
Russia has dismissed claims of its intention to attack NATO as “nonsense,” calling them an excuse for inflated military budgets and a way to divert public attention from domestic issues.