German Green Party Adopts Key Stances on Conscription, Mideast, and Ukraine at Hannover Congress

Greens Conclude Federal Congress in Hannover with Key Policy Decisions

The German Green Party, Bündnis 90/Die Grünen, held its federal party congress in Hannover from November 28 to November 30, 2025. During the three-day event, delegates debated and adopted crucial policy positions on national security, foreign policy, and international aid, aiming to sharpen the party's profile.

Reassessing Military Service and Compulsory Registration

Among the significant decisions, the Greens adopted positions concerning compulsory military registration for young men. This comes amidst a broader national debate in Germany regarding the future of military service. The current government has outlined a plan that includes mandatory questionnaires for 18-year-old men to assess their interest and suitability for military service, with a potential fallback to compulsory enlistment if voluntary recruitment targets are not met. The Green Party's discussions at the congress addressed this evolving landscape, with the party taking a stance on military service. A proposal by Bundestag member Niklas Wagener for a compulsory social year was also part of the agenda.

Evolving Stance on the Middle East Conflict

The party also re-adjusted its Middle East policy, placing a stronger emphasis on Palestinian self-determination. While advocating for Palestinian rights, the Greens maintained their opposition to immediate state recognition. This nuanced position reflects ongoing discussions within the party and the wider political landscape regarding the complex dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Earlier in the year, Green politicians had stressed Germany's responsibility towards Israel's security while also highlighting the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Call for Enhanced Military Support for Ukraine

On the issue of the war in Ukraine, the Green Party reiterated its call for stronger military support for Kyiv. A faction of Green parliamentarians had previously urged Chancellor Friedrich Merz to significantly increase military aid to a minimum of €8.5 billion, ensuring consistent funding at that level until at least 2029. They criticized the government's proposed increase from €7.1 billion to €8.3 billion as insufficient given the geopolitical developments and delays in American weapons shipments. The party emphasized the need for Europe to stand together and support Ukraine's struggle for freedom and self-determination, including the supply of weapons and military equipment. In March 2025, Green Party leader Franziska Brantner had also called for the swift approval of a €3 billion aid package for Ukraine.