Students strike across Germany over possible return of compulsory military service
BBC News reports that organisers say medical exam invitations sent to young men who had expressed no interest in joining the army triggered the protests.
TLDR
BBC News reports that students are striking across Germany against the possible reintroduction of compulsory military service. Organisers say more than 100 demonstrations are planned.
Under Germany’s voluntary-service law, all 18-year-olds are sent a recruitment questionnaire. Completing it is mandatory for men and voluntary for women, while all 18-year-old men must also undergo a medical exam. The Defence Ministry told the BBC that the exam requirement applies even to men who express no interest in serving.
Military service remains voluntary, but the BBC reports that Parliament could consider compulsory service if the security situation worsens or too few volunteers come forward.
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First seen 3h ago
Students strike across Germany over possible return of compulsory military service
BBC News reports that organisers say medical exam invitations sent to young men who had expressed no interest in joining the army triggered the protests.
TLDR
BBC News reports that students are striking across Germany against the possible reintroduction of compulsory military service. Organisers say more than 100 demonstrations are planned.
Under Germany’s voluntary-service law, all 18-year-olds are sent a recruitment questionnaire. Completing it is mandatory for men and voluntary for women, while all 18-year-old men must also undergo a medical exam. The Defence Ministry told the BBC that the exam requirement applies even to men who express no interest in serving.
Military service remains voluntary, but the BBC reports that Parliament could consider compulsory service if the security situation worsens or too few volunteers come forward.