Thousands of people demonstrated in Berlin on German Unity Day against rearmament, possible conscription and policies they say could contribute to military escalation.
The demonstration began near the Brandenburg Gate and moved through central Berlin towards the government district before ending back at the Brandenburg Gate. Peace initiatives, political groups, activists and various civil society organizations took part.
According to information reported by Reuters Connect, Berlin police estimated the number of participants at around 5,800, while organizers put the figure at about 20,000. There is therefore no independently confirmed exact figure for the turnout.
The demonstration focused on opposition to further rearmament and possible conscription, as well as calls for peace, democratic rights and social security.
The protest took place amid an ongoing debate in Germany over higher defense spending and the future of military service. This report is limited to the documented demands and the reported attendance figures.
