A lively controversy erupted in Germany following revelations from the “Frankfurter Rundschau” regarding one of the articles in the modernization law of the military service.
A law that raises questions. On January 1st, the new “modernization law of military service” came into effect in Germany to strengthen its defenses, in the context of increasing threats emanating from Russia since the beginning of the war in Ukraine. This new text has notably introduced the establishment of a voluntary military service, fifteen years after the abolition of mandatory service, and introduced a surprising new rule, as reported by the “Frankfurter Rundschau” on Friday, April 3.
In addition to the reinstatement of military registration, the German media explains that men aged 18 to 45 must now obtain prior permission from the army, or more precisely from the competent recruitment center of the Bundeswehr, for any stay abroad lasting more than three months. “Whether it’s a semester of studies abroad, a job internationally, or a trip around the world, a prior visit to the recruitment center of the German Armed Forces is mandatory,” insist our colleagues from the “Frankfurter Rundschau.”
The army specifies in their columns that this is to “guarantee a reliable and relevant military registration system.” Emphasizing: “In case of emergency, we need to know who could stay abroad for an extended period.”
“Generally granted”
The revelation of this information – though enshrined in the law – has caused a real stir in Germany, with citizens denouncing a “serious breach of the right to self-determination.” The Ministry of Defense has since clarified that “since military service is based exclusively on voluntary basis under current legislation, these authorizations are generally granted.” Understand that this is simply an administrative formality, with no grounds for rejection and no sanctions announced for non-compliance with this rule.
