Regression across Europe for conscientious objectors

In advance of International Human Rights Day on 10th December, the European Bureau for Conscientious Objection (EBCO) has published its Annual Report “Conscientious Objection to Military Service in Europe 2017”.

“In 2017, efforts to recognize the rights of conscientious objectors to military service have taken once more a negative track in Europe”, EBCO President Friedhelm Schneider said.

“Apparently the predominant concerns of EU politics were less marked by the promotion of human rights than by economic planning and by the intention to strengthen military cooperation and spending. It is self-evident that a context of progressing militarization does not facilitate the implementation Correspondingly in 2017 the item of conscientious objection did not figure on the political agenda of European institutions – even though massive and repeated violations of this right continue to be of the fundamental right of conscientious objection to military service. deplored.” 

Read the report here.