Russian courts have begun refusing alternative service by citing completion of the school life-safety course

Russian courts have begun refusing alternative service by citing completion of the school life-safety course

Draft commissions and courts are increasingly using the subject of OBZh as a reason to deny conscripts who want to replace military service with alternative civilian service (AGS). This was reported by Artyom Klyga, head of the legal department of the Movement of Conscientious Objectors.

“Excellent grades in OBZh/OBZR, including on the topic of ‘Conscription for military service,’ are cited by courts as proof of the absence of beliefs [contrary to bearing arms or serving in the army]. At the same time, a grade in the subject primarily reflects knowledge of the material, not a person’s worldview,” Klyga noted.

He added that court decisions also mention references from schools and colleges containing the standard phrase “Did not demonstrate stable pacifist convictions.” “Such a reference puts an end to the possibility of replacing military service with AGS,” the lawyer explained.

It is possible to refuse initial military training as part of the OBZh course (the subject is now called OBZZh). To do this, parents need to submit an application addressed to the principal, citing the Constitution’s article on freedom of conscience. The earlier this is done, the better, Klyga advised parents.

@meduzalive