Conscientious objector: what it is, how to declare and military service

A conscientious objector is a person who refuses to fulfill a certain duty on the basis of personal principles.

In the opposition of conscience, the objector requests authorization to not fulfill an obligation that goes against their convictions, which can be of various types: ethical, philosophical, religious and political.

Conscientious objection is based on the idea that people should be free to act in accordance with the principles they cultivate. However, it cannot be stated in any situation and requests must explain the reasons for the objection.

The right to declare conscientious objection (or conscientious imperative) is guaranteed by the Federal Constitution.

How to make a statement of conscientious objection?

In order to declare conscientious objection, it is necessary to make a declaration that must be delivered directly to the body responsible for the activity. The declaration must contain, among other documents, the reasons for the request - the conscience imperative.

The content of the statement may vary depending on the type of objection and the entity that will receive the document. The basic documents are:

• Personal documents for identification: identity card, birth certificate or work card.
• Documentation proving the reasons for conscientious objection. Example: a statement that proves that the individual is part of a religious or philosophical association.
• Request for dismissal from the activity: justification explaining the ethical, moral, political or religious reasons for requesting exemption from the obligation.

The submission of a statement of conscientious objection does not guarantee that the application will be accepted.

Imperative of Conscience and Mandatory Military Service

Conscientious objection is used as a justification for requesting exemption from military service, which in Brazil is mandatory and determined by law for men who turn 18 years of age.

In that case the objection may be stated for the religious or ethical reasons of the man who does not agree with the principles cultivated in the military service of any of the Armed Forces entities: Army, Air Force or Navy.

But it is important to remember that the request for dismissal due to an imperative of conscience must prove the reasons for the request, which is analyzed by the Armed Forces, can be accepted or denied.

Types of Conscientious Objection

There are 8 types of conscientious objection, explained by researcher José Carlos Buzanello.

1. Conscientious objection to military service: request for exemption from compulsory military service motivated by disagreement with the principles or activities carried out by the Armed Forces.
2. religious conscience objection: may apply to people who cannot do activities on specific dates or times due to religious practices.
3. Conscientious objection in the profession: it can occur when there is some conflict between a professional activity and a professional's moral or religious principle.
4. Conscientious objection in medical treatment: can be claimed in cases of medical treatments that violate ethical, religious or moral principles.
5. Conscientious objection in organ donation: refers to the desire not to donate organs, which must be clearly expressed by the person.
6. Conscientious objection to abortion: can be declared by doctors that they are against the procedure.
7. Conscientious objection at work on Saturdays: is similar to conscientious objection and can apply to people who cannot work on Saturdays due to the rules of their religion.
8. Conscientious objection in elections: happens when a voter refuses to participate in elections and electoral procedures. In these cases, it is necessary to do the justification of absence procedure.

Also know the meanings of consciousness, moral sense, professional ethics and moral values.