German school pupils strike against possible return of conscription

School pupils were striking across Germany on 25 September 2026 against the possible reintroduction of compulsory military service. Protesters in Hamburg displayed banners opposing participation in wars, while organisers said more than 100 demonstrations were planned nationwide, including in Kiel, Berlin and Frankfurt. [1]

Organisers said the immediate trigger was official invitations for medical examinations sent to some 18-year-olds in Kiel and Flensburg who had indicated no interest in joining the army. Bela Breitner, of School Strike Against Compulsory Military Service, said the federal government was serious about gradually restoring conscription. [1]

What the current rules require

A law introducing voluntary military service came into force in January. Enlistment remains voluntary, but the Bundestag, Germany’s parliament, could consider a form of compulsory service if the security situation worsens or too few volunteers come forward. [1]

Under the law, all 18-year-olds in Germany are being sent a questionnaire asking about their interest and willingness to join the armed forces. Men must complete it; responding is voluntary for women. [1]

A Defence Ministry spokesperson told the BBC that mandatory medical examinations apply to all men liable for military service who were born after 31 December 2007, including those who have said they are not interested in serving. The requirement to undergo an examination is separate from an obligation to enlist. [1]

The spokesperson said around 1,000 18-year-old men who had shown no interest in joining the army had undergone the examination since July. [1]

Germany stopped compulsory military service in 2011, under then-chancellor Angela Merkel. The debate over its possible return comes as the country seeks to increase the size of its armed forces. [1]