Conscientious objector

Conscientious objector, person opposed to war in any form or in the specific form it is then taking, who by reason of conscience and conviction refuses to bear arms in wartime. The United States requires either noncombat duty within the armed forces or alternative service in a socially useful category for those who, as conscientious objectors, refuse regular services. Many other countries recognize this status—including Great Britain, the Commonwealth Nations, the Russian Federation, and many others in Europe and Latin America. Most require alternative noncombat service.

See also: Pacifism.