Germany suspends military approval for long stays abroad for men under 45
Germany’s decision to suspend enforcement of a law requiring men under 45 to seek military approval for long stays abroad has reignited debate over conscription, constitutional limits, and legislative competence. Commenters argue over whether the rule is a harmless Cold War relic or a troubling sign of quiet war preparation, raising broader concerns about unequal burdens on men, gender-neutral service, and how European societies should realistically prepare for potential conflict with Russia. Some also question the fairness of wartime sacrifices falling largely on the working class while wealth and policy priorities remain unchanged for elites.
Scope and Origin of the Travel-Approval Law
- Law requires men under 45 to get approval for long stays abroad due to conscription rules; it was broadened in January to apply even in peacetime.
- Some argue it’s an old Cold War rule with no sanctions and little practical relevance; others counter that broadening its scope changes its nature.
- Several see the situation as a legislative/procedural failure: a problematic clause passed unnoticed and was then “suspended” by informal administrative exception instead of being fixed in parliament.
- Concern is raised that the law remains on the books and could be reactivated without new parliamentary approval.
Government Competence and Constitutional Constraints
- Commenters criticize the government and defense ministry as sloppy or incompetent for not anticipating the implications, or for late/poor communication.
- Others suggest the “general exception” might be intentional to allow fast reactivation in a crisis, though critics respond that this doesn’t explain the timing.
- A constitutional point is made: Germany’s basic law explicitly allows drafting only men; changing that would require a supermajority.
War Preparedness, Inequality, and Class
- Some see current “war preparation” rhetoric as targeted mainly at the working class while elites keep privileges (e.g., private jets), likening it to austerity and wealth transfer.
- Others reply that Germany is barely increasing effort compared to historical wartime mobilization.
- Debate over whether restricting luxury emissions (jets, crypto) would be symbolic or materially important.
Conscription, Gender, and Fairness
- Multiple commenters criticize male-only conscription as sexist and undermining claims of gender equality.
- Others defend exempting women on biological and civilizational grounds (reproduction, historical protection of women/children), while critics call this incompatible with modern equality norms.
- Some argue women are effective soldiers and underused due to military culture and “toxic masculinity.”
Why Fight? Personal vs. National Defense
- Some participants say they would refuse to fight for political elites or borders, prioritizing family safety over national defense.
- Others respond that “defending the country” is ultimately about protecting one’s family and way of life, especially against occupiers who may loot, repress culture, or create second-class citizens.
- There is disagreement on whether past occupations (e.g., Soviet era in Eastern Europe) were preferable to mass resistance and casualties.