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Germany Requires Military Approval for Extended Stays Abroad

4/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Germany's Federal Ministry of Defense implements a policy, effective January 1, requiring men aged 17 to 45 to seek permission for stays abroad longer than three months.
The policy is part of efforts to bolster military recruitment amid rising security concerns.
The defense ministry says approvals will be routine as long as military service remains voluntary.
Protests and media scrutiny followed the policy.
Compulsory service was suspended in 2011.

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Story summary

Germany's Federal Ministry of Defense implements a policy, effective January 1, requiring men aged 17 to 45 to seek permission for stays abroad longer than three months.
The policy is part of efforts to bolster military recruitment amid rising security concerns.
The defense ministry says approvals will be routine as long as military service remains voluntary.
Protests and media scrutiny followed the policy.
Compulsory service was suspended in 2011.