The Alliance for Germany (BSW) intends to leverage the planned reform of military service to galvanize its supporters ahead of upcoming state elections. Party leader Sahra Wagenknecht stated in an interview with “Stern” magazine that the legislation represents “a red carpet for the return to conscription” framing it as “the next major step towards the militarization of Germany.
Wagenknecht announced that opposition to conscription will be a key focus for the BSW, particularly within its youth organization. She described the law as a significant mistake and an infringement on the rights of young people, who she claims overwhelmingly oppose the reintroduction of mandatory military service. “Young people should resist this deprivation of liberty for the sake of war” she asserted.
Looking ahead, Wagenknecht connected the potential conscription to ongoing debates around the possible deployment of German troops to Ukraine to help secure a peace agreement. She argued that those potentially conscripted today could be the soldiers deployed abroad tomorrow and therefore, conscription must be prevented. “The BSW will resolutely fight against conscription” she concluded.