Inter­na­tio­nal Support of Conscien­tious Objec­tors and Deserters

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."

Thailand: First conscientious objector challenges the military

(08.04.2024) On 5th April, last Friday, Thai conscientious objector and human rights activist Netiwit Chotiphatphaisal declared his conscientious objection in front of a military conscription centre in Samut Prakarn province, openly stating his beliefs instead of complying with a call-up. His deferment as a student ended this day. He was not arrested. Thailand does not recognise the right to conscientious objection.

Thailand: Declaration Against Military Draft

Netiwit Chotiphatphaisal in front of the military office

(05.04.2024) Hiermit betone ich zehn Jahre nach meiner ersten Erklärung zur Kriegsdienstverweigerung, die ich 2014 nach dem Putsch in Thailand öffentlich gemacht habe, dass ich einer Einberufung zum Militär nicht nachkommen werde.

Israeli teen jailed for refusing draft: "I’m willing to pay a price for my principles"

Ben Arad, 18, is the third conscientious objector imprisoned since October 7. He tells +972 why Israel’s assault on Gaza

(05.04.2024) “Since the war began, I understood that I have an obligation to make my voice heard, and to call for an end to the cycle of violence.” These were the words of Ben Arad, an 18-year-old Israeli conscientious objector, shortly before he reported to the Israeli army’s recruitment center near Tel Aviv on April 1 and declared his refusal to enlist in mandatory military service, in protest of Israel’s bombardment of Gaza and the long-standing occupation.