Lithuania – Conscientious objection to military service in Belarus, presents significant human rights concerns, especially for refugees in Lithuania. Despite the fundamental human right to conscientious objection, Belarusian conscientious objectors face harsh circumstances, including the death penalty for desertion and restrictive legislation on military deferments.
The cases of Belarusian conscientious objectors being perceived as a threat to Lithuania’s national security are based on subjective assessments rather than specific legal criteria. Lithuanian legal acts do not comprehensively define the term “threat to national security,” relying on contextual factors and judicial practices for evaluation. This subjectivity allows for flexible interpretation.
Belarusian conscientious objectors often seek refuge in Russia as a means to escape the Belarusian regime. Their choice of Russia is not necessarily an endorsement of Russian policies; rather, it is a practical decision based on the ease of hiding and the absence of visa requirements for Belarusians entering Russia. The porous borders further facilitate this escape route.
Therefore, Belarusian female human rights activists in Lithuania become victims twice: first, they become targets of espionage by the KGB, and second, they are subjected to attacks from male Lithuanian human rights defenders. This double victimization places them in a distressing and even more vulnerable position, highlighting the urgent need for better protection and support.
Recommendations:
Ensure a system of protection for human rights defenders and peacebuilders, providing the necessary resources for them to continue to work in safety.
Ensure legal assistance for Belarusian conscientious objectors in Lithuania, including those who have no financial means.
Ensure provisions to protect Belarusian who exercise their human right to conscientious objection. Refrain from deporting them to Belarus.
Contribute to humanitarian corridor to Europe for Belarusian conscientious objectors and ensure asylum procedure for them within the EU.
Read the full report: https://news.house/60802
Authored by: International Centre for civil initiatives “Our House” (Nash Dom), Belarus & Lithuania
With the support of:
International Fellowship of Reconciliation – Austria
European Bureau for Conscientious Objection
Federation for Social Defence, Germany
The International Peace Bureau (IPB)
Publication date: 17th of August 2023