Inter­na­tio­nal Support of Conscien­tious Objec­tors and Deserters

U.S. AWOL Soldier André Shepherd’s Request for Asylum

The European Court of Justice: Having published its preliminary ruling, what is the next move?

(14.03.2015) On February 26, 2015, the European Court of Justice (ECJ), having been asked by the Munich Administrative Court (Verwaltungsgericht) to submit a decision on U.S. AWOL soldier André Shepherd’s request for asylum, published its preliminary ruling. As many media observers now believe that Mr Shepherd’s prospects of being granted asylum status are very remote, Rudi Friedrich from Connection e.V. has now summarized his initial thoughts on whether pessimism is indeed justified and what ramifications the court's preliminary ruling will have.

US: Objector Sara Beining sentenced, but released from jail - Discharge soon

(10.12.2014) Yesterday, in a military courtroom at Fort Carson, Colorado, military war resister Sara Beining was sentenced to time (5 months) already served in pre-trial confinement, and a “bad conduct” discharge. Sara was initially facing a decade in prison on two counts of desertion, so this is a huge victory. Sara benefited greatly from the representation of attorney James Branum of Oklahoma City. Mr. Branum’s services and expenses were paid for by Courage to Resist and our supporters nationwide. Sara was released from jail last night, and will be out processed from the US Army in the next few days.

U.S. AWOL soldier André Shepherd: European Court of Justice Advocate General Reinforces Rights of Refusers

(11.11.2014) In the legal case of U.S. AWOL soldier André Shepherd (37) the European Court of Justice Advocate General, Eleanor Sharpton, today published her final opinion. This official statement contains guiding deliberations for the interpretation of the so-called Qualification Directive of the European Union. Amongst other considerations, these rules state that those endangered by prosecution or punishment for refusal to perform military service involving an illegal war or commital of war crimes, should be protected by the European Union.

USA: War resister Sara Beining court martial set for Dec. 9

(11.11.2014) Facing a lengthy prison sentence, Army war resister Sara Beining is scheduled to be court martialed at Fort Carson, Colorado at 9am, December 9th, on two counts of desertion. Supporters are encouraged to attend the trial, contribute to her legal and prison fund, and send her letters letter of support to: Sara Beining, A0305918 / Criminal Justice Center / 2739 E. Las Vegas St / Colorado Springs, CO 80906.