Adoption network for conscientious objectors in Western Europe: Cyprus 5/92 (reactivation of Cyprus 6/90): Reimprisonment of conscientious objector Georgios Irodotou

Georgios Irodotou, a Jehovah’s Witness aged 22, was sentenced on 12 October 1992 to nine months’ imprisonment by the Military Court in Nicosia for refusing to perform compulsory military service. This is the second time in two years that he has been jailed for conscientious objection. Recent cases of conscientious objection have indicated a trend towards imposing harsher sentences (Georgios’ previous sentence was six months). Legislation passed in January 1992 recognized for the first time the right to conscientious objection and made provision for alternative service. However, the terms of the legislation fall short of United Nations and Council of Europe recommendations and are not acceptable to the Jehovah’s Witness community.

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