Connection e.V. is starting a new systematic work at the United Nations in Geneva

(16.04.2024) Starting in May 2024, Connection e.V. will begin a new systematic work to support conscientious objectors within the United Nations System in Geneva with its new consultant Zaira Zafarana. "We are very pleased," said Rudi Friedrich, Director of the conscientious objection network Connection e.V., today, "that the important work for the human right to conscientious objection to military service at the UN in Geneva can now be significantly strengthened again and further developed. This has been made possible by a generous grant from the UK-based Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust (JRCT). The fund will also support new efforts to strengthen the advocacy work at the European level, at the Council of Europe and within the European Union."

"Till last year, I had the opportunity to advocate in Geneva for the human right to conscientious objection on behalf of the International Fellowship of Reconciliation (IFOR)," added Zaira Zafarana. "I’m grateful for the cooperation and in particular for the support of IFOR branches. Now I look forward with enthusiasm to resume that important work together with Connection e.V., an internationally experienced partner eager to ensure the continuation of such a vital work for the many human rights defenders and human beings exercising the right to refuse to kill and thus their right to freedom of conscience, thought and religion."

The UN Human Rights Council and other UN bodies regularly reviews the human rights situation of each UN member state. This is such an important procedure for any concerned NGO aimed to the protection and full implementation of human rights. Civil society has also the opportunity to contribute to the reporting task of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and, for instance, Connection e.V. has recently made a detailed submission on asylum and conscientious objection to provide useful information for an upcoming UN report on the practice of the human right mentioned above.

“International advocacy is essential to support local efforts. A good combination of both and a well-planned work within international institutions can provide a substantial call to member states to align with international standards and a significant improvement in the implementation of human rights”, continued Zaira Zafarana. In 2023, for instance, based on various judgements by the European Court of Human Rights, the Council of Europe has called on Turkey in particular to recognize and implement the right to conscientious objection to military service.

"Connection e.V will continue to actively collaborate on this issue with its international partners  and is ready to share its capacities and experties with others as well. Thus, we presently invite other organisations and groups to contact us for international support for their efforts on conscientious objection issues", concluded Rudi Friedrich of Connection e.V.

Connection e.V.: press release, April 16, 2024

Keywords:    ⇒ Connection e.V. - About Us   ⇒ Conscientious Objection   ⇒ Human Rights   ⇒ International