Inter­na­tio­nal Support of Conscien­tious Objec­tors and Deserters

South Korea: Statement to the Ruling of the Constitution Court

Welcoming the Decision Recognizing Conscientious Objection

(28.06.2018) Today, the Constitutional Court of Republic of Korea ruled that Article 5(1) of the Military Service Act (hereafter "MSA") does not conform with the Constitution of Republic of Korea as it fails to provide alternative service for conscientious objectors as a type of military service, while setting a time limit for the continued application of the provision until December 31th, 2019. The Court's decision against the legislative inaction implies that it is unconstitutional to not enact relevant law required by the Constitution. In today's decision, the Court recognized conscientious objection as the exercise of the right to "freedom of conscience" which is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution and pointed out that Article 5(1) of the MSA is unconstitutional on account that it did not offer an alternative service for conscientious objectors who have been subjected to criminalization.

Russia: Activists developed an online resource on alternative service

(14.12.2016) Activists in Russia launched a website informing young men about alternative service, how to apply for it and their rights when performing. In addition to presenting information on procedures, the website also includes stories by other young men who chose to perform alternative civilian service, and encourages more to choose this option.

Azerbaijan: No alternative military service until Karabakh resolution

(16.02.2012) There can be no discussion about alternative military service as long Azerbaijani land remains occupied, a senior MP has said. Siyavush Novruzov, a member of the Azerbaijani parliament’s Security and Defence Committee, told journalists that alternative service could not be considered until resolution of the conflict with Armenia over Nagorno-Karabakh, Gun.Az reported. The MP from the ruling New Azerbaijan Party said there was no need to make changes to the rules for conscription.

Bermudians Against the Draft will continue its fight in courts

(08.11.2011) Anti-conscription campaigners will continue protesting through the courts despite Premier Paula Cox’s pledge to introduce an alternative national service. Bermudians Against the Draft yesterday gave a cautious welcome to Ms Cox’s Throne Speech promise to “table legislation that makes provision for new alternatives to conscription, including the introduction of a national youth service”.