What does the tension in Germany mean - and what would the specific consequences be?

In times of increasing international tensions, a term keeps cropping up in political debates that many citizens hardly know how to categorize: the "State of tension". But what does it mean in concrete terms when this case is established in Germany? And how does the case of tension differ from the better-known case of defense, which is usually associated with an actual war? In order to be able to correctly assess the possible consequences, it is worth taking a sober look at the constitutional situation.

October 6, 2025: Even though some politicians have already publicly debated declaring a state of emergency in Germany, according to dpa No plans of the Bundestag on an alleged and obviously falsely reported vote on the declaration of a state of tension in Germany.

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What is the case of tension according to the Basic Law?

The state of tension is a state of emergency enshrined in the Basic Law that takes effect before the actual state of defense. It is used in Article 80a GG and can be established if a threat situation emerges without an armed attack on Germany having already taken place.

The declaration is made by the Bundestag with the approval of the Bundesrat. The legal basis allows the state to take certain preparatory measures for national defense - even if the actual case of war has not yet occurred.

The case of defense - when the attack has taken place

The case of tension is contrasted with the case of defense, which in Article 115a GG is regulated. It comes into effect if Germany is attacked by armed force or if such an attack is imminent.

Here, too, the Bundestag must take action with the approval of the Bundesrat, although even stricter regulations apply in the event of defense - particularly with regard to the restriction of fundamental rights, the deployment of the Bundeswehr in Germany and the control of the economy.

The crucial difference: prognosis vs. acute attack

The main difference lies in the timing and nature of the threat. With the state tension is a precautionary measure that allows the state to prepare for a potential threat - for example through troop deployments, conscription regulations or stricter security laws.

At the Defense case On the other hand, it is an acute war situation in which an attack has already taken place or is imminent. Both cases activate special regulations, but the case of tension can be determined much earlier and for an indefinite period of time - and is therefore all the more politically sensitive.

Transitions and risk of abuse?

As a state of tension can be declared even in the event of a vague threat situation, there is a risk that its application will be politically motivated or strategically overstretched. While the case of defense requires a verifiable attack, the political assessment of a security situation may be sufficient in the case of tension - which leaves room for interpretation and interpretation.

From the perspective of the rule of law, it is therefore particularly important that the application of these exemptions is subject to transparent monitoring - not least by a vigilant public and independent media.

The case of tension is not just a simulation game

Although the state of tension may seem like a theoretical construct at first glance, in practice it creates very real powers for the government and military that can have a profound impact on citizens' lives. It is therefore crucial not only to deal with the state of defense, but also to understand this lesser-known state of emergency in detail. Because as soon as a state of tension is declared, the relationship between the state and its citizens changes fundamentally - often insidiously, but with far-reaching consequences.

What would be the immediate consequences of a declared state of tension?

As soon as a state of emergency is declared by the Bundestag and Bundesrat, the legal situation in Germany changes fundamentally. This step activates a series of special powers that are normally reserved for a state of emergency. These affect not only the military, but also public life, the administration, the media and the economy. So what exactly happens from the moment a state of emergency is officially declared?

Extended legislative powers of the federal government

One of the key consequences is that the federal government will be given significantly more powers, Enforcing laws at breakneck speed. This means that ordinances with the force of law can be issued - i.e. regulations that would otherwise only be passed by the Bundestag. Powers that actually lie with the federal states can also be centralized, for example in the areas of police, civil protection or healthcare. Article 80a of the Basic Law and other provisions of military constitutional law open doors here that are closed in normal operations.

Conscription of the Bundeswehr - also in Germany

The Bundeswehr's range of missions is extended with the case of tension. It can be deployed not only for defense, but also for domestic support, particularly in the event of imminent danger. In conjunction with Article 87a paragraph 4 GG this can lead to the domestic deployment of the armed forces - for example to support the police or to protect "critical infrastructure". What was unthinkable for a long time can gradually become reality in this way - legitimized by the case of tension, even without an actual case of war.

Mobilization: reservists and conscripts

When the event of tension is declared, the so-called event of tension clause comes into force, which allows it,

• Reservists to be convened,
• Conscripts again,
• and Civilian alternative services to arrange.

This means that even Citizens who have not been required to do military service for yearscould be called back into service. In addition, compulsory military service for young men - and possibly also women via the civil defense route - could be reactivated at short notice. The case of tension allows this even before the outbreak of war, purely as a preparatory measure.

In a previous article, I described which rights to the Refusal of military service are available.

Restrictions on the federal order

In the event of tension, the Federal Government can - based on the emergency legislation

• issue instructions to state governments,
• Place authorities under central management,
• and also prepare interventions in judicial processes (e.g. accelerated procedures).

Federalism, otherwise a guarantor of political decentralization, is significantly weakened in a state of emergency - partly tacitly, but effectively.

Interference in the media, communication and freedom of information

A less well-known but far-reaching consequence concerns the information space. Even in the event of tension, the state can:

• the Coordinate broadcasting or centrally,
• Measures against "destructive" reporting meet,
• the Telecommunications monitoring (e.g. mobile communications, internet, messenger),
• and even Internet services regulate or restrict if internal security appears to be at risk.

This is legally possible via the Article 10 Act and supplementary regulations in connection with the G10 body and the Security Cabinet.

Commitment to cooperation - also in business and society

Under the slogan "overall defense", the state can oblige companies and citizens to cooperate. This applies, for example:

• Production changes in industry and trade,
• Confiscation of operating resources,
• or the Commitment to tolerate state intervention in operational processes, material supply or logistics.

Owners of real estate or vehicles can also be obliged to use their property for "state purposes" - in return for compensation, but under duress.

The state of tension is not a symbol, but a powerful tool

A declared state of tension has very concrete, far-reaching consequences - not only for the military and administration, but for every single citizen.
It allows the state to bring conscription, information control and property seizures back to the fore - without a war taking place. This is precisely why the proclamation of this state is not a symbolic act, but a powerful lever for reshaping the legal and social framework.

Restriction of fundamental rights - what would still be allowed, what not?

In the public perception, fundamental rights are often considered untouchable. But this is only half the truth. The current constitution already provides for special regulations for exceptional situations - including the case of tension. As soon as this is established, the state can intervene in a targeted and lawful manner in fundamental rights that are normally subject to special protection. Which rights are affected - and which are not?

The constitutional lever: Article 115c of the Basic Law

The most important legal basis for restrictions on fundamental rights in a state of tension and defense is Article 115c (2) of the Basic Law.
It states that certain fundamental rights may be restricted "in accordance with a law" if a case of tension has been established. The following fundamental rights are affected in particular:

• Art. 10 GG - Secrecy of correspondence, post and telecommunications
• Art. 11 GG - Freedom of movement
• Art. 12 GG - Freedom of occupation, prohibition of forced labor
• partly also Art. 13 GG - Inviolability of the home
• and Art. 14 GG - Property and inheritance law

These restrictions are not blanket, but are tied to legal requirements - nevertheless, the scope for discretion is considerably extended.
Freedom of communication: surveillance becomes the rule One of the first and most visible encroachments concerns the secrecy of telecommunications (Art. 10 GG). Under certain conditions, telephones can already be monitored and emails read.

In the event of tension, however, these measures can be generalized and carried out preventively - even without concrete suspicion of a crime, but purely to "avert danger". This applies, among other things:

• Mobile and Internet connections
• Messenger services
• Private mail and parcels
• Server and cloud access

Control is no longer the sole responsibility of independent courts, but increasingly of security authorities and political bodies.

Freedom of movement and freedom of movement

Article 11 of the Basic Law guarantees in principle the right to move freely within Germany. However, this right can be restricted or revoked in cases of tension. The following are conceivable:

• Curfews or restricted zones
• Restrictions on the Departure abroad
• Reporting obligations or residence requirements
• Restrictions for Change of residence or travel

These measures would also be constitutional as long as they are based on corresponding laws - such as the Civil Protection Act.

Interference with freedom to choose an occupation - including compulsory services

The right to exercise one's profession freely (Article 12 of the Basic Law) can be severely restricted in the event of military mobilization. In addition to military mobilization, compulsory civilian service is also provided for, for example:

• Compulsory obligations in the healthcare sector, rescue services, fire department, infrastructure
• Relocation or decommissioning of companies if this serves the "interests of defense"
• Obligation to Taking up employment in safety-relevant areas

Even forced labour, which is generally prohibited by the Basic Law, can be legitimized under certain conditions, for example in the context of "civil defence".

Interventions in the home and property

The fundamental right to inviolability of the home (Art. 13 GG) can also be curtailed in the event of tension:

• Apartments can be Security or accommodation be used
• Searches can be facilitated and judicial orders can be circumvented
• Wiretapping measures in private space are possible

The situation is similar with property (Art. 14 GG):

• Expropriations for national defense are expressly permitted
• Real estate, vehicles or means of production can confiscated become
• Compensation are provided for, but do not have to be paid in advance

Agricultural products, food, medical supplies or machinery could also be used for "defense security".

Which fundamental rights remain (theoretically) inviolable?

Despite all the exceptions, certain basic rights remain protected even in the event of tension - at least on paper. These include:

• Human dignity (Art. 1 GG) - inviolable
• Religious freedom (Art. 4 GG)
• Freedom of expression (Art. 5 GG) - however, de facto restricted by media control
• Independence of the courts (Art. 92 ff. GG) - whereby special regulations may apply

But here, too, the factual approach can differ from the theory. Especially in emergency situations, even freedoms protected by constitutional law quickly come under pressure - usually through "temporary exceptions" that then remain.

The state of emergency knows hardly any clear boundaries

In legal terms, a declared case of tension means the activation of a parallel order in which central fundamental rights can be restricted or suspended - legitimized by the constitution itself. What many citizens perceive as inviolable becomes a matter of negotiation in exceptional circumstances - depending on the situation, interpretation and political will. It is therefore all the more important to consciously follow these developments, even if they appear to be legally correct.

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Current survey on tension in Germany

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What does this mean in concrete terms - from compulsory military service to expropriation?

While the debate about the case of tension is usually conducted at a political or legal level, very few people are aware of the very practical impact this step can have on the daily lives of each individual. It is no longer just about paragraphs and constitutional articles, but about questions such as:

• Do I have to go back to the Sampling?
• Can the state take my house confiscate?
• Can I forced be forced to work somewhere I don't want to?

All this - and more - is made possible by the state of tension.

The return of compulsory military service - sooner than expected

The case of tension allows the state to reactively enforce the suspended military service - without a war taking place. In concrete terms, this means

• All male German citizens between 18 and 45 years can be called up for military service again.
• The Bundeswehr can Call-up notices even if you have never served.
• Even former Retired or Reservists can consulted again become.

Although women are currently excluded from compulsory military service, they could be conscripted via civil defense (see below). Once a case of tension has been identified, this opens the door to the nationwide registration of the conscripted population.

Civil protection applies to everyone - including women

In addition to the military component, the case of tension also allows for compulsory civilian service. This applies not only to men - but to all citizens, regardless of gender. Concrete measures could be:

• Commitment for service in care facilities, hospitals, disaster control
• Use in food distribution, transportation logistics, infrastructure monitoring
• Work commitments in government-related institutions (e.g. energy supply, waterworks, IT security)

This means that every citizen can be called upon to "work for the common good" - even without qualifications, even against their will.

Living space and vehicles: confiscation legally possible

One particularly sensitive point concerns private property. In the event of tension, the state can:

• Confiscate living spacee.g. for the accommodation of soldiers, refugees or emergency services
• Request vehiclesespecially vans, off-road vehicles, machines
• Land, garages, agricultural land misappropriatefor storage or supply, for example

That sounds drastic - but it is expressly covered by Article 14 of the Basic Law in conjunction with the emergency laws, as long as compensation is provided for. However, this does not have to be paid in advance.

Companies and the self-employed: Interventions in operating processes

Companies, craft businesses and the self-employed are also affected. In the event of tension, the state can:

• Means of production redirect (e.g. conversion to armaments or emergency supplies)
• Materials confiscate
• Personnel dispositions order, for example for particularly qualified workers
• Contractual relationships terminate or adjust, e.g. supply contracts, leases, rental agreements
• Price specifications e.g. for "war-relevant" products or services

This massively restricts economic freedom - even if it remains formally in place.

Restriction of personal life planning

The state can use the state of tension:

• Exit restrictions issued - no longer a guarantee to leave the country
• Reporting obligations impose, e.g. for persons fit for military service or systemically important persons
• Travel bans in certain regions
• Residence requirements make - so anyone who "actually wanted to move away" can be obliged to stay

Students, trainees, pensioners or single parents are not automatically protected either - because anyone can be declared "fit for duty" if this appears necessary to maintain order or care.

Psychological effect: pressure, fear and duty of loyalty

In addition to the legal consequences, a case of tension has a psychological effect that should not be underestimated:

• Public pressure to "behave loyally"
• Fear of repression if you speak out critically
• Social exclusion, e.g. if you don't show up for work
• Stigmatization of "objectors" or "deviants"

Although there are still legal options to object, in practice the climate in such exceptional phases is usually repressive and intolerant of criticism.

The case of tension is not an abstract situation, but an introduction to everyday life in an exceptional situation

What sounds like a technical measure on paper means far-reaching changes in everyday life in practice: Sudden call-up. Compulsory service. Property under state control. Freedom of movement restricted. In short: the state of tension legally puts the country in a state of readiness for war even before there is a war - and demands almost complete conformity and cooperation from citizens under threat of punishment.

Why a vigilant public is necessary right now

In a democratic constitutional state, it is the task of citizens not only to observe developments, but also to classify them - especially when it comes to exceptions that fundamentally shift the relationship between the state and the individual. The case of tension is such an instrument: legally legitimate, but politically highly sensitive.

Between security and loss of control

The state has - undoubtedly - the task of protecting its population. But where is the line between protection and control? The state of tension is not a stopgap measure for acute danger, but a broadly interpretable instrument for advance defense. This is precisely what makes it so delicate:

• He attacks before an armed attack,
• already allows far-reaching cuts to fundamental rights,
• and shifts the balance of power - with long-term consequences.

A society that accepts such steps uncritically becomes accustomed to exceptions over time - until they become permanent.

The role of the media: between enlightenment and containment

In times of crisis, many media tend to group themselves protectively around state narratives - with the justification of "not unsettling the population". But it is precisely at times like these that an independent, critically questioning public is needed:

• Terms such as "State of tension" not only repeated, but explained
• reveals connections without dramatizing them
• voices that differentiate rather than moralize

Because democracy does not live from harmony, but from resonance.

Historical experience: rights that were once restricted...

...often do not return completely. Many historical examples show this - including in Germany. Exceptions created in times of emergency often continue to have an effect decades later. Once a state of tension has been declared, it can be prolonged, extended or even become the political norm - especially if the population does not understand the underlying mechanisms or no longer questions them.

Personal responsibility instead of powerlessness

Vigilance does not mean mistrust of democracy, but the awareness that democracy is not static.
It thrives on thinking along, questioning, not running along. This includes:

• to inform yourself before a law is passed,
• to talk to others - not just digitally, but in real life,
• Not to delegate responsibility, but to take it on yourself - calmly, friendly, but clearly.

Anyone who does this does not appear "lateral", but mature and mature.

Why is vigilance necessary? Because democracy needs participation. Because exceptions are rarely temporary. And because it is the task of free people to recognize, question and, if necessary, peacefully name legal developments.

A democratic state needs security -
but it also needs responsible citizens who understand,
when security gradually turns into control.

A kind of essay by Mr. von L'oerot on the subject

Humor is one of the most important tools for surviving crises of all kinds. Mr. von L'oreot has therefore written his thoughts on the subject in a kind of essay. Military service and tension in an illustrated article.

Thinking ahead in difficult times: "Crises as turning points"

This article is no coincidence - but part of a larger context. In my book "Crises as turning points - learn, grow, create" I show how personal, social and political crises can be understood not only as a threat, but also as an invitation to clarity and a new direction. The book is deliberately written as a calm, reflective guide for the coming years - for people who are looking for guidance without being lectured to.

It is intended to encourage people to allow their own thoughts, take responsibility - and no longer allow themselves to be driven by headlines, pressure or fear. Because those who understand crises lose their fear of the future. And if you don't fear the future, you can shape it with a clear view.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about state of tension in Germany

1. What exactly is a case of tension - is it war?
   No. A state of tension is not a war, but a constitutionally regulated special situation that can be established before an attack. It is intended to enable the state to prepare for a potential threat situation at an early stage. In contrast to the case of defense, there is no armed attack yet - but there is a politically assessed threat situation.
2. Who decides whether the state of tension occurs?
   The Bundestag establishes the case of tension, albeit with the approval of the Bundesrat. It is therefore a political decision that requires a majority in both constitutional bodies - based on Articles 80a and 115a of the Basic Law.
3. What happens immediately after detection?
   As soon as a case of tension is established, the powers of the federal government, the armed forces and the security authorities are extended. Laws can be amended or enacted more quickly. The military and security logic comes to the fore - even in the civilian sector.
4. Will the Bundeswehr then also be deployed in Germany?
   Yes, under certain conditions. The case of tension allows the Bundeswehr to be deployed domestically, e.g. to protect critical infrastructure or to support the police. This is normally severely restricted by the Basic Law - but is extended by Article 87a (4) of the Basic Law in the event of tension.
5. Can fundamental rights then be restricted - and which ones?
   Yes, according to Article 115c of the Basic Law, the following fundamental rights can be restricted or temporarily suspended in the event of tension:
   - Art. 10: Secrecy of correspondence, post and telecommunications
   - Art. 11: Freedom of movement
   - Art. 12: Freedom to choose an occupation
   - Art. 13 and 14: Housing and property (on emergency laws)
   Other fundamental rights, such as human dignity (Art. 1) or freedom of opinion (Art. 5), remain formally intact - but can come under pressure in practice.
6. Will conscription be reintroduced?
   Yes, that is possible. The case of tension activates the legal basis for reactivating compulsory military service. All men who are fit for military service can be called up, including those who were previously invalided out or no longer liable for military service. The call-up can take place at short notice.
7. Does this also affect women?
   Yes, through civil defense. Women cannot be called up for compulsory military service, but they can be called up for compulsory civilian service. This includes, for example, care, civil protection, supply, logistics. From a legal point of view, this is an equivalent intervention based on the Civil Defense Act.
8. Can the state confiscate my house or car?
   Yes, in the event of tension, private property can be confiscated or transferred for use for the purposes of overall defense - e.g. as accommodation, storage or means of transport. Compensation is provided for, but does not have to be paid in advance.
9. Can I be forced to work somewhere?
   Yes, that is also possible. Article 12 of the Basic Law protects the free choice of profession - but this protection can be suspended in the event of tension. The state can oblige people to work in security-relevant areas, e.g. in the emergency services, in supply services or in certain companies.
10. Can I still leave the country if I want to?
    Not without further ado. In the event of tension, the federal government can impose travel restrictions or exit bans - especially for people who are considered fit for duty or security-relevant. Freedom of movement within Germany can also be restricted.
11. How long can the state of tension last?
    Theoretically unlimited. There is no fixed maximum duration. As long as the Bundestag and Bundesrat consider the situation to be given, the state of tension can be extended. A gradual transition to a state of defense is also conceivable - with even more far-reaching consequences.
12. Can I defend myself against measures?
    Formally yes - practically difficult. Legal remedies are possible, e.g. objection or legal action. However, many measures are legitimized "in the public interest" in cases of tension - courts could therefore rule restrictively. Legal recourse exists, but is often restricted in emergency situations.
13. What happens to my company in the event of tension?
    Companies can be obliged to provide materials, expertise or personnel. Production changes, price specifications, material charges or operating restrictions are legally permissible - with reference to the law on securing supply and production.
14. Is there protection against abuse of such special rights?
    In theory: Yes - through parliament and the Federal Constitutional Court.
    In practice: only if public control works. The problem lies less in the law - but in the lack of awareness among the population of how far-reaching these special rights actually are. Abuse is possible above all when nobody looks closely.
15. Is the case of tension a pretext for authoritarian politics?
    That depends on the design. The case of tension is a tool with a legal basis that can be used very widely. Whether it turns into authoritarian politics depends on how critical the public remains, how independently the media reports - and whether the courts still act as a corrective.
16. What can I do as a citizen - apart from watching?
    Inform, differentiate, exchange. The case of tension is a highly sensitive issue that cannot be defused through polemics, but through education. Those who inform themselves, explain the context to others and take a calm stance contribute to democratic stability - even in difficult times.