Fundamental Right to Conscientious Objection

by European Union

Article 10

Freedom of thought, conscience and religion

1. Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion. This right includes freedom to change religion or belief and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or in private, to manifest religion or belief, in worship, teaching, practice and observance.

2. The right to conscientious objection is recognised, in accordance with the national laws governing the exercise of this right.

Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (2000/C 364/01), Article 10. The Charter entered into force December 1, 2009 together with the Treaty of Lisbon. The Charter is binding – with exception of United Kingdom and Poland – upon all member states of European Union. The whole document could be found at www.europarl.europa.eu/charter/pdf/text_en.pdf

Keywords:    ⇒ Conscientious Objection   ⇒ Europe   ⇒ Human Rights   ⇒ International Resolutions