The last German conscripts take their solemn vows

Compulsory military service in Germany is suspended

Conscription had been a feature of life for all young German men in both the West (since 1956) and East (after 1962), and the practice continued even after the end of the Cold War. In 2011, a new government decided that compulsory military service was no longer necessary to the defence of the state. Whilst the possibility of forcing men to serve in the armed forces remains on the statute books, it will not be activated until the need arises. The swearing-in ceremony held for conscripts on 16 March 2011 has not been repeated since.

Men and women hoping to gain a taste of life in the military can still sign up for short service – between seven and 23 months – as a member of the rank and file.