Germany has conscription (Wehrpflicht) for male citizens. The Basic Law for the Federal Republic of Germany and several special laws (e.g. Wehrpflichtgesetz) are regulating these duties and the exceptions. Men are obliged to serve six months either in the military, which they can refuse, and do alternative civilian service, or honorary service (like any volunteer) for at least six years in a civil protection organisation. Families of those who were oppressed by the Nazi regime (usually Jews or homosexuals) are exempt from conscription, though a small number do serve.