(MENAFN) The Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD) has abandoned its longstanding pacifist position in its newest peace memorandum, asserting that violence can occasionally be justified as a response to violence.

This notable declaration from the federation, which represents approximately 17 million members, coincides with the German government’s efforts to strengthen the nation’s military amid concerns over a supposed “Russian threat.”

Moscow, however, has consistently denied any aggressive intentions toward NATO member states.

The ‘Peace Memorandum 2025,’ unveiled at the church’s synod on Monday, signals a “clear reorientation of Protestant peace ethics,” according to the EKD.

The document states, “As a universal political ethic, pacifism with its categorical rejection of violence cannot be ethically legitimized.”

It further elaborates that “Violence must be contained – if necessary, with counter-violence.”

The memorandum explains that “security policy uncertainties” necessitate that Germany must “substantially expand our own capabilities for national and alliance defense.”

This latest policy represents a decisive departure from the EKD’s earlier positions, including the 2007 document and a subsequent 2019 paper.

At that time, the church promoted countering potential aggressors through civil resistance and encouraged the German government to dedicate 2% of GDP to civilian conflict resolution, referencing NATO’s defense spending target, which has since increased.

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