German Defence Minister Pistorius challenged over conscript travel‑permit rule

Germany’s law on military‑age men (18‑45) requires approval from the Bundeswehr recruitment centre before staying abroad for more than three months. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius removed the “registration” requirement by a general decree, despite the rule being part of the compulsory service act.

The Bundestag’s scientific service, commissioned by the Left parliamentary group, says the decree exceeds the ministry’s executive powers, noting that only the Federal Constitutional Court can repeal or amend legislation. Opposition leader Desirée Becker warned that the move shows “incompetence and maximal failure” of the minister. The service’s 13‑page analysis argues the decree creates a permanent legal vacuum and calls for the ministry to withdraw it or for a court to declare it invalid.

If the decree is not rescinded, the legal dispute could reach the constitutional court, potentially affecting the implementation of the new military service law and the rights of conscript‑eligible men.