German Protestant Church peace stance faces theological critique

New academic publications are challenging the recent peace position taken by the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD). Following the EKD's November 2025 position paper, “Welt in Unordnung - Gerechter Friede im Blick,” which drew criticism for its perceived alignment with government and military stances, new volumes aim to provide a critical theological counter-perspective.

The third volume of the “Umdenkschrift” series, edited by Peter Bürger, compiles various contributions addressing the EKD controversy. Former EKD Council Chair Margot Käßmann opens the collection, arguing that the EKD missed a vital opportunity to advocate for disarmament and the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons during a period of significant global rearmament.

Complementing this, a new “reader” of scientific essays examines the EKD's stance on the war in Ukraine. The EKD's position—which suggests that self-defense, territorial integrity, and rearmament can be justified through the commandment of neighborly love—marks a departure from radical pacifism. Critics argue that the EKD's approach lacks sufficient clarity regarding the practical consequences of its peace theology and tends to mirror current political positions rather than fostering necessary debate on issues like conscription and deterrence.