Conscientious objector and human rights defender Yurii Sheliazhenko detained

Yesterday, on a street in Kyiv, Ukrainian authorities apprehended and detained Yurii Sheliazhenko—a pacifist and conscientious objector who leads the Ukrainian Pacifist Movement and has collaborated with the Peace Institute on several occasions. International human rights organizations have spoken out to condemn the detention, which was reportedly carried out without a legal basis and in violation of procedural rights. They point to potential breaches of international law and highlight his long-standing work in peace activism and advocacy. We join their calls for the Ukrainian authorities to immediately release Yurii Sheliazhenko and to cease forced mobilization; furthermore, we urge the international community to protect conscientious objectors and peace activists.

More information: Urgent: Conscientious objector and human rights defender Yurii Sheliazhenko detained