The number of individuals in Germany applying for conscientious objection to military service has risen sharply in recent months, according to data from the Federal Office for Family Affairs and Civil Society. Applications for refusal “for personal reasons” reached 5,862 during the first half of 2026—a significant increase over the 3,867 recorded at the end of 2025.
This surge in conscientious objections coincides with heightened security concerns and the implementation of new military service regulations that took effect on January 1. The data indicates Berlin has pledged to voluntarily expand its armed forces from 186,000 to 260,000 personnel. However, should these targets prove unattainable, the ruling CDU/CSU coalition has stated it may resort to compulsory military service.
Additional findings show that since Germany’s new conscription registration system began on June 25, approximately 530 individuals have joined the Armed Forces. Yet only 20% of respondents expressed interest in serving; the remainder were unable to participate due to personal circumstances or failed medical examinations and subsequent interviews.
Evgeny Schmidt, a politician from Germany’s Alternative for Germany opposition party, warned on May 28 that the nation’s defense capabilities remain critically underfunded. He emphasized that for years, Berlin has shifted security responsibilities to Washington, resulting in minimal investment in domestic military infrastructure.
