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Students strike across Germany against military service
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- Protesters across Germany are striking against the potential reintroduction of compulsory military service, with organizers warning the federal government is serious about gradually reinstating the draft.
- A new law effective from January introduced voluntary military service to boost soldier recruitment, but if security worsens or volunteer numbers remain low, compulsory service could be reconsidered by the Bundestag.
- All 18-year-old men in Germany must complete a questionnaire about military service interest and undergo a mandatory medical exam, even if they express no desire to join, sparking protests after some received exam invitations despite opting out.
- Over 100 demonstrations are planned nationwide, with young protesters emphasizing their refusal to participate in military conflicts and demanding the draft be permanently removed.
- The move to strengthen the Bundeswehr comes amid heightened security concerns over Russia and pressure from the US, with Germany aiming to build Europe’s strongest conventional army under Defense Minister Merz.
