Increasing demand: advice centers for conscientious objectors are booming!

Increasing demand: advice centers for conscientious objectors are booming!

In Bremen the trend is clear: the demand for advice on conscientious objection is constantly increasing. In recent weeks, counseling centers have registered an increasing number of inquiries, a sign that many young people are dealing with the issue. The German Peace Society (DFG) saw a surge in website visits, from 55,000 in August to an impressive 77,000 by mid-month, as buten un binnen reports.

Behind this influx is the uncertainty caused by the current political situation and the discussion about a new military service law. The law, which is due to come into force on January 1, 2026, stipulates that young men born in 2008 must report for military service again. This makes the possibility of refusing military service particularly relevant for many. Susanne Bödecker from the DFG-VK describes that the telephone numbers on the advice hotlines do not stop. Concerned parents in particular often contact us and want to receive more information for their children who do not want to join the Bundeswehr. Applications for recognition as conscientious objectors have doubled.

The voice of the advice centers

Joachim Kuhlmann from the DFG emphasizes that he would like to set up a team of consultants to meet the increasing number of requests. From 2026, group consultations will also be offered to comprehensively show those affected the options. Pastor Jasper von Legat, the peace officer of the Bremen Evangelical Church, also offers support. He listens to the personal concerns of those seeking advice and helps them make a conscientious decision.

Kuhlmann and Legat are not alone. The Evangelical Working Group for Conscientious Objection and Peace (EAK) also reports a significant increase in requests for advice. The discussion about returning to compulsory military service increased the number of inquiries by more than 30 percent last year. The fear of possible conscription is causing nervousness among many young people and reservists.

The current legal situation at a glance

The federal government passed the law at the end of August together with the Union, which is critical of the new military service. However, the approval of the Bundestag is still pending. In the future, young men will have to fill out a questionnaire, while women will have this option voluntarily. The Tagesschau further explains that 1,363 applications for conscientious objection have already been received in the first half of 2025 alone. For comparison: In 2024 there were 2,241 applications, which underpins the trend of increasing unrest.

A closer look at the numbers reveals the following development: In 2019, only 110 people applied for conscientious objection, in 2022 there were already almost 1,000 applications and the number is continuously increasing to this day. These developments show that interest in conscientious objection is on the rise and that many young people are concerned about their place in society.

Those affected are not alone with the information and support from the advice centers. They will find contact points that will help them find their way around conscientious objection. The coming months could be decisive in determining whether military service will become compulsory again in Germany in the future.