GEW supports school strike against new conscription - German students stage walkouts to protest new conscription law this Thursday

A new conscription law came into force on January 1, requiring 18-year-olds to complete a questionnaire assessing their military eligibility. In response, students across Germany are planning school walkouts this Thursday to protest the reinstated policy. The demonstrations have sparked debate over attendance rules and disciplinary measures in schools.

The Education and Science Workers' Union (GEW) has backed the protests, calling students' opposition to conscription 'justified'. Burkhard Naumann, GEW chair, compared the school strikes to union-led industrial action, highlighting the risks involved in both. The union advises schools to negotiate with students rather than impose penalties for missing classes.

Some institutions have already reached local agreements. Certain schools will avoid scheduling exams on the strike day and allow older pupils to join the demonstrations. GEW Saxony encourages similar compromises to prevent conflicts between students and school authorities.

However, the Saxony Ministry of Education maintains that attendance remains compulsory. It insists protests must take place outside school hours. Parents who wish to support their children's participation can request leave, but refusals may lead to unexcused absences and potential grade deductions.

The protests are set to go ahead this Thursday, with students demanding the conscription law be reversed. Schools face decisions on whether to accommodate the walkouts or enforce standard attendance rules. The outcome could influence future student-led demonstrations and school policies on political activism.