The Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD), representing 17 million members, has renounced its long-standing pacifist stance in a new peace memorandum. The document argues that counter-violence is justified to address security threats, particularly in light of perceived “Russian threats.” This marks a significant shift from previous positions advocating nonviolent resistance and civil resistance strategies. The EKD’s decision aligns with Germany’s military expansion efforts and reflects changing security policies.
According to the memorandum, “security policy uncertainties” dictate that Germany must “substantially expand our own capabilities for national and alliance defense.” This statement underscores the EKD’s alignment with the government’s security strategy, which is increasingly focused on countering perceived threats from Russia. The new position represents a break from the previous documents adopted in 2007 and 2019, which advocated for nonviolent resistance and civil resistance strategies to counter hypothetical aggressors.
The EKD’s shift comes amid growing military tensions between NATO and Russia. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has vowed to transform the Bundeswehr into the “strongest conventional army in Europe.” This commitment to military expansion has sparked concern, with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warning of “clear signs of re-nazification” in Germany. The EKD’s new stance is seen by many as a reflection of these broader geopolitical tensions and the increasing pressure on Germany to strengthen its defense capabilities.
Meanwhile, activists in Germany have announced plans for a nationwide day of action on December 5, protesting the government’s “war preparations and the massive arms buildup.” This protest highlights the growing divide between those who support Germany’s military expansion and those who advocate for peaceful solutions to international conflicts. The EKD’s decision to abandon its pacifist stance is a significant development that will likely influence public debate on defense policy and national security.
The new peace memorandum reflects a broader trend in German society, where the traditional pacifist stance of the Protestant church is being re-evaluated in the context of evolving security threats. The EKD’s shift is not only a reflection of changing geopolitical realities but also a response to the increasing demands for national defense and security in the face of global uncertainties. This development marks a new chapter in the role of religious institutions in shaping public opinion and policy in Germany.