Nationwide, resistance to military service is widespread.
German Public's Wariness Towards Military Engagement
A recent survey by Forsa, commissioned by the German News Network, reveals that a significant portion of the German population is reluctant to defend their country with military force[1].
The survey findings indicate that only 16% of respondents would "definitely" defend Germany with a weapon in case of war, while 59% are reluctant, with 22% responding "probably not" and 27% stating "probably"[1].
This reluctance can be attributed to a variety of factors. Historical trauma from the Nazi legacy, economic concerns, and skepticism towards government foreign policy and NATO alignment are among the reasons cited for the low willingness to engage in armed conflict[1].
The survey also reveals a broader German public aversion to militarism and unease about war, influenced by regional divides and distrust in defense policy[1]. This reluctance is particularly pronounced among women, with 72% of female respondents indicating they would not defend Germany with a weapon[1].
The ongoing war in Ukraine has seen over 13,500 civilian deaths and over 34,000 injuries as of June 30, 2025[1]. The conflict has also resulted in the displacement of over 5.6 million people, with approximately 1.2 million seeking refuge in Germany[1].
Despite this, tolerance towards Ukrainian refugees in Germany has waned. Criticism has been levied that those of fighting age should defend their country instead of "burdening the social system[1]."
The survey results reflect a continuing trend of limited public support for military engagement or arms buildup, despite Germany’s role as a NATO member and its planned military modernization efforts[1].
[1] Source: Forsa Survey, August 2025 analysis.
In light of Germany's role as a NATO member and planned military modernization, the survey shows that only 16% of respondents are willing to "definitely" defend their country with a weapon, while 59% express reluctance, citing historical trauma, economic concerns, government skepticism, and regional divides as factors [1]. Furthermore, the survey results suggest a broader German public aversion to militarism, particularly among women, with 72% indicating they would not defend their country with a weapon [1]. This trend of limited public support for military engagement continues, despite ongoing war-and-conflicts such as the one in Ukraine [1]. Meanwhile, politics and general-news discussions carve out contrasting perspectives on the topic of military aggression and refugee tolerance [1].
