UN Side Event: Conscientious Objection in Times of War

War Resisters’ International, in collaboration with Connection e.V., is organising a side event during the 60th session of the UN Human Rights Council.

The event will take place on 15 September 2025, at 1pm CEST, at the Palais des Nations, Geneva; and focus on the right to conscientious objection to military service in times of war.

Conscientious objection to military service is a human right, inherent in freedom of thought, conscience, and religion. It is a universal and non-derogable right — yet too often it is violated. Conscientious objectors face persecution, imprisonment, and many are forced to seek protection abroad. This event will highlight why protecting this right is especially urgent during times of war.

Speakers will include conscientious objectors from Israel, Russia, and Ukraine, as well as experts and campaigners from the Quaker United Nations Office and Connection e.V.:

• Rachel Brett, Human Rights Advisor, Quaker United Nations Office
   
• Tal Mitnick, Conscientious Objector from Israel
   
• Noa Levy, Lawyer, Mesarvot
   
• Andrii Konovalov, Conscientious Objector from Ukraine
   
• Elisei Kharitonov, Conscientious Objector from Russia
   
• Artem Klyga, Legal Consultant for Eastern Europe, Connection e.V.
   

The event will be moderated by Zaira Zafarana, International Advocacy Coordinator of Connection e.V. and WRI’s representative at the UN in Geneva