Anti-militarists condemn decision to deny protection to Ukrainians
Tuesday 8th September 2026 on 00:15 in
Iceland
The Association of Anti-Militarists has strongly condemned a decision by Iceland’s Minister of Justice Þorbjörg Sigríður Gunnlaugsdóttir concerning Ukrainian applicants seeking protection in Iceland, mbl.is reported.
The decision concerns applicants who do not want to serve in Ukraine’s military. The association is demanding that the Icelandic government withdraw it.
In a statement, the association’s central committee said human rights were broader than the rights listed in individual laws or human rights treaties.
It said every person had a fundamental human right not to be forced to risk their life or kill people on the orders of others.
The association said nothing in Icelandic law authorised or required the denial of protection to people fleeing war because another government had ordered them to take part in the conflict.
It also said that no agreements or obligations between Iceland and other states or international organisations required such a policy.
“Iceland has no military, and Icelandic citizens are not required to serve in the military. Denying other people the opportunity to enjoy the same is shameful,” the association said.
Military conscription is currently in force in Ukraine. Russia’s invasion has continued since 2022.