Amnesty International considers a conscientious objector to be any person who, for reasons of conscience or profound conviction, refuses to perform service in the armed forces or any other direct or indirect participation in wars or armed conflicts. This can include conscripts or professional soldiers who have developed a conscientious objection after joining the armed forces. Wherever such a person is detained or imprisoned solely for such a refusal, Amnesty International considers that person to be a prisoner of conscience and calls for their immediate and unconditional release.
