Germany's Defence Minister, Boris Pistorius, announced that men of military age no longer need to report lengthy stays abroad. This decision comes amid controversy surrounding the recently enacted Military Service Modernisation Act, which reintroduces military service in response to security concerns from Russia, following its invasion of Ukraine.
The act, effective from January 1, necessitated males aged 17 and older to obtain prior approval for overseas stays exceeding three months. However, this requirement was largely unnoticed until highlighted by recent media reports.
Pistorius clarified in a statement to the German Press Agency that he is introducing an exemption, stating, Whether they are 17 or 45, or anywhere in between – everyone is, of course, free to travel and currently does not need permission to do so. This means that lengthy stays abroad will not need to be disclosed.
He added that the permission requirement is suspended as long as military service remains voluntary. Nevertheless, he indicated that appropriate protocols would be established should a crisis arise, defending the previous regulations as precautionary measures.
The Military Service Modernisation Act aims to reinforce the military, reintroducing conscription as a contingency plan should voluntary enlistment not yield sufficient personnel. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has declared ambitions to establish Europe’s strongest conventional army.
As part of the transition, all 18-year-olds in Germany are now receiving questionnaires assessing their willingness to join the armed forces, which is mandatory for men and voluntary for women. Starting in July 2027, all male 18-year-olds will undergo medical assessments to evaluate their fitness for potential military service.
