Surge in German conscientious objector applications as military recruitment drive intensifies

The number of young German men applying for conscientious objector status has more than doubled in the first half of 2026, surpassing the total for the entire previous year.

• The German government reported 5,862 applications for conscientious objector status in the first half of 2026, compared to 3,879 in all of 2025.
• The government introduced a policy in 2026 requiring all 18-year-old men to complete a form indicating their readiness to serve and undergo a medical examination.
• The CDU/CSU said that if Defense Minister Pistorius fails to make progress toward a goal of 260,000 active volunteer soldiers by 2035, conscription could be resumed.