1st June 2026
«Connection e.V.» welcomes two recent positive asylum decisions issued by the French authorities in favour of Russian conscientious objectors. The cases demonstrate that individuals facing different forms of military-related persecution in Russia may qualify for international protection.
The first case concerned a conscript who had challenged the decision of the joint municipal conscription commission through administrative and judicial proceedings before leaving Russia and seeking asylum in France. «Connection e.V.» prepared a legal opinion assessing the risks he would face upon return, including the widespread practice of military round-ups in Moscow, pressure on conscripts to sign military contracts, and the deteriorating availability of alternative civilian service for conscientious objectors. The applicant informed us in February 2026 that the French authorities had taken our assessment into account when granting him refugee status.
The second case involved a reservist. Although he was not at immediate risk of compulsory military service, he possessed a rare military occupational specialty and a medical fitness category that made him a likely candidate for mobilisation or recruitment into military service. He was also granted protection by the French authorities last week.
These decisions illustrate that the risk of persecution may arise in a variety of military-related situations and should be assessed on an individual basis. They also highlight the importance of detailed country-of-origin information and legal analysis in asylum procedures involving Russian nationals who object to military service.
It is important to note that both applicants entered France before the new EU migration rules came into force in 2026. As a result, these cases were examined under the previous legal framework. It remains too early to assess how the new EU asylum rules will affect similar applications in practice.
«Connection e.V.» continues to support conscientious objectors, deserters, and other individuals fleeing military persecution through legal assistance, country-of-origin research, and expert opinions submitted in asylum proceedings across Europe.
This work is only possible thanks to the support of people who believe in defending the right to freedom of conscience and the rights of conscientious objectors. Every legal opinion, every asylum case, and every person we are able to assist is made possible by those who choose to support our work.
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