The Rights of Conscientious Objectors

"The consultation considers that the exercise of conscientious judgment is inherent in the dignity of human beings and that accordingly, each person should be assured the right, on grounds of conscience or profound conviction, to refuse military service, or any other direct or indirect participation in wars or armed conflicts:

The right of conscientious objection also extends to those who are unwilling to serve in a particular war because they consider it unjust or because they refuse to participate in a war or conflict in which weapons of mass destruction are likely to be used.

The consultation also considers that members of armed forces have the rights and even the duty, to refuse to obey military orders which may involve the commission of criminal offences, or of war crimes or of crimes against humanity.

It is urged that the Churches should use their best endeavour to secure the recognition of the right of conscientious objection as hereinbefore defined under national and international law.

Governments should extend the right of asylum to those refusing to serve in their country for reasons of conscience".