According to Frankfurter Rundschau, a new German law on military service states that “men must obtain permission after 17 years for stays of more than three months.” This new rule has sparked controversy in Germany.
Under the new German law on military service, men aged 17 and older must obtain prior authorization from the German armed forces for any stay abroad lasting more than three months. This authorization will be granted on the condition that “no specific service as a soldier is planned during the period in question.” The Defense Ministry spokesperson added that the purpose of this regulation is to ensure a reliable and complete record of military service if needed.
Revealed by Frankfurter Rundschau on Friday, April 3, this new law has caused controversy in Germany. Left-wing radical politician Sahra Wagenknecht commented, “The fact that men need permission to travel abroad with the Bundeswehr is reminiscent of the GDR and the era of the Berlin Wall. This has nothing to do with democracy and liberal democratic order.”
To encourage more young Germans to enlist, Germany has committed to significantly increasing the personnel of its career and reserve army as part of NATO defense plans. This new law aims to motivate more young Germans to voluntarily engage in military training. However, males under 17 years old will need to complete a questionnaire on their suitability for military service and undergo medical exams if required.
Published on April 6 at 3:39 PM by Arnaud Enjourbault, 6Medias.
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