WCC calls to respect right to conscientious objection to military service

World Council of Churches. Photo: end-violence.org

Discussing the escalation of war in Ukraine, the Executive Committee of the World Council of Churches (WCC) has issued a call to ensure fundamental human rights during times of war. This was reported on the WCC website.

The statement draws attention to the horrifying human toll, destruction of homes, and environmental damage resulting from this war, calling "for the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, an end to the invasion and occupation of Ukrainian territory, and the re-establishment of peace in the region".

Additionally, the WCC Executive Committee appeals also to the governments of Russia and Ukraine "to respect the fundamental human and moral right of conscientious objection to military service, even in times of war.”

The WCC Executive Committee met in Bogotá, Colombia, from June 6 to 11, 2024, where the governing body focused, in particular, "on absorbing the life and witness of churches at the heart of the Pilgrimage of Justice, Reconciliation, and Unity".

As reported by the UOJ, the World Council of Churches condemned the concept of "holy war" adopted by the RF.

Read also

Constantinople bishop: If the Church loses its Greek spirit, what will remain?

Archbishop Makarios of the Constantinople Church criticized the rector of an Australian parish for conducting half of the service in English.

Georgian Church Synod to present three candidates for Patriarchal throne

Georgian hierarchs will select candidates for the Patriarchal throne, after which the Extended Council will make the final decision.

Metropolitan Tychikos' lawyers respond to media accusations

The hierarch's lawyers called the television stories targeted harassment.

EU Court: Hungary's law protecting children from LGBT violates legislation

The European Court ruled that Hungary's ban on promoting LGBT ideology among minors contradicts "EU values".

Facts of persecution against UOC included in world's human rights report

The Amnesty International report points to pressure on the Ukrainian Orthodox Church and criticism from UN experts.

Pasika activist urges believers to join Uniates if they don't want to go to OCU

Choknadiy called on UOC believers to join the Greek Catholic Church, since they refuse to join the OCU.