The German government is proactively preparing for the potential reinstatement of mandatory military service, which would likely necessitate the revival of a corresponding civilian service program. Federal Family Minister Karin Prien, whose ministry oversees civilian service, emphasized the need for advance planning given the increasing number of individuals applying for conscientious objection, even before formal registration or conscription processes begin.
The responsibility for administering civilian service falls under the current Federal Office for Family and Civic Duties (BAFzA), which incorporates the former Federal Office for Civilian Service. Minister Prien noted this agency previously employed 600 staff and retains existing infrastructure due to ongoing, albeit limited, cases of conscientious objection resulting from the suspension, not abolition, of mandatory service.
While the exact current staff number remains undisclosed, Prien confirmed a growing workload and the government’s commitment to responding accordingly. The volume of applications for conscientious objection has notably risen in recent months, exceeding 1,500 in the first half of the year alone, a significant increase from previous years.
Germany suspended mandatory military service in 2011, effectively replacing it with the Federal Volunteer Service program. Following changes in the European security landscape, the Federal Cabinet recently proposed legislation introducing a new system that includes registration for military service, initially prioritizing voluntary participation and an appealing service model.
Minister Prien expressed support for extending any reinstated mandatory service to include women, framing this as an issue of gender equality. She further suggested supporting a compulsory social year for both men and women. Implementing mandatory service for women would require a constitutional amendment, a prospect Minister Prien indicated she would be inclined to pursue.
