Germany could see record number of conscientious objectors to military service

Germany could see a record number of people refusing military service on grounds of conscience by the end of the year, German magazine Der Spiegel reports, citing data from law enforcement authorities.

In the first half of 2026, the Federal Office for Family Affairs and Civil Society Functions (BAFzA) received 402 applications for conscientious objection to military service.

“If this pace continues, it will be a new record,” the publication says.

The magazine noted that the number of conscientious objectors stood at 536 in 2023. In 2024, 626 people filed applications expressing their unwillingness to join the military, while in 2025 the figure rose to 781. However, in 2026, this number is expected to reach 402 applications based on figures from only the first half of the year.

“In Germany, people can refuse military service on grounds of conscience. The reasons for such a decision must be explained in detail in a personal written statement,” the publication says.