International Conscientious Objectors Day: Honoring the Courage to Say No

Conscientious objection is not merely a historical issue. In many countries today, military service is still compulsory, and those who refuse to serve can face imprisonment, discrimination, or even torture. Countries like South Korea, Eritrea, and Turkey have been criticized by international human rights organizations for their treatment of objectors. In such places, International Conscientious Objectors Day also serves as a platform to demand policy changes and greater protections for individuals who refuse to fight.