Thousands Protest Across Germany Against New Military Conscription Law

Following the Bundestag's approval of the Wehrdienst-Modernisierungsgesetz, thousands of young people rallied in approximately 90 German cities to oppose the reinstatement of military conscription set to begin January 1, 2026. In Berlin alone, about 2,000 demonstrators, including a sixth-grade class from Kreuzberg, marched with slogans such as "You old geezers don’t have to fight" and "We want waffles instead of weapons." The new law requires young men to complete questionnaires and undergo medical exams for potential service.

The protests, coordinated by student initiatives under the banner "School Strike Against Conscription," voiced fears of being forced into military service. Participants, like 18-year-old Berliner Bela, declared, "I don't want to die for this state." Youth in Munich, including 12-year-old Quirin and 14-year-old Kilian, advocated for voluntary service over compulsory conscription, emphasizing peace over war.

The teachers’ union GEW backed the demonstrations, criticizing the military’s recruitment efforts within schools. CDU security politician Dennis Gladiator countered, underscoring the importance of informing young people about civic duties through military presence in educational settings.

This widespread dissent highlights societal unease regarding the conscription law, reflecting a generational divide and ongoing debates about Germany’s defense policies and youth involvement.