Germany plans to return to civilian service
Updated 3 months ago3 new reports, including tagesschau, DER SPIEGEL.
The short version
Germany is considering the return of civilian service as a possible consequence of a new military service model. Denmark is also introducing an extended military service.
The German government is working on plans for the possible reintroduction of civilian service.3 The new military service in Germany does not provide for compulsory military service, but could entail compulsory civilian service if it is reintroduced.3 The Ministry of Family Affairs is already making initial preparations for a possible civilian service.4
In Denmark, conscription has been compulsory for women since the beginning of 2026.2 Denmark will introduce an extended military service of eleven months instead of four from 4 August 2026.1 The longer military service in Denmark is justified by the war in Ukraine and threats from the USA with regard to Greenland.1
Why it matters
Civilian service in Germany was an alternative to conscription for conscientious objectors and included charitable activities such as care or environmental protection.4
Military service in Germany was suspended in 2011, and the new military service from 2026 no longer provides for a general obligation.3
This account was written from the 4 reports listed below, filed by 3 independent outlets, and checked against them line by line. It is not a copy of any one of them. Spotted an error? Tell us.
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