International Conscientious Objectors Day: Honoring the Courage to Say No

In recent years, conscientious objection has expanded to include not only military conscription but also opposition to participating in specific wars or military actions. For example, some soldiers have refused deployment to conflict zones they believe to be unjust, such as the Iraq War or the conflict in Ukraine. These "selective objectors" often face complicated legal battles and intense public scrutiny. International Conscientious Objectors Day highlights their bravery as well, recognizing that moral opposition is not always absolute but can also be situational.