World beyond War International Conscientious Objection Day

Dear Peter,

Today, on International Conscientious Objection Day, we want to amplify the powerful message of Conscientious Objectors: We have the right to refuse to kill.

In light of increased militarisation, in Europe and worldwide, as well as the normalisation and re-introduction of military conscription, resisting is more important than ever.

This week, the EBCO published its Annual Report on Conscientious Objection to Military Service in Europe 2025, drawing on contributions from national governments, human rights institutions, NGOs, and solidarity networks. 

Last November, the WBW Europe Network released a statement on conscientious objection. If you have not already done so – we’re asking for your help to amplify it.

Here’s how you can help us amplify it:

Send the Statement to Members of the European Parliament (MEPs)

1. Download the sample letter here.
2. Use this tool to find your MEPs according to country of origin. We recommend only sending the letter to MEPs from your own country, and where possible targeting members of the LIBE – Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs, or DROI – Subcommittee on Human Rights. 

Share the Statement on Social Media

1. Share it on Bluesky, Facebook, -7rBi8mrl8FZaPP4PQVVb54dQxZXYCqqb36l4F3e5WylfjoPpX4ZNnur8q0ESfiWjCZcRh7BUAkKSRO6LYUgjY/4qn/BqY8Qn7RRb65z5y2we7hHg/h12/h001.i5CiJqLGdiMd4YIxjXlT8BEEylh37S3evwfBMLRLM98”>LinkedIn. Feel free to add a short caption highlighting its key message and to tag relevant human rights organisations, peace networks, or institutions to spread the statement even wider. 
2. Share the statement within relevant group chats, community pages, and forums.

Bring the Statement into Media Spaces

1. Write letters to the editor, blog posts, or articles referencing the statement and highlighting the importance of conscientious objection in the current political climate. 
2. Share any published pieces with us and on social media by tagging @worldbeyondwar and @worldbeyondwar.europe

For a world beyond war,

Annachiara Canetta
Europe Organiser
World BEYOND War
[email protected]