The Objector Identity Card is a form of “virtual accompaniment” being practiced by War Resisters’ International (WRI). WRI works in cooperation with ANOOC, the National Assembly of Conscientious Objectors in Colombia.
Protecting Colombian Conscientious Objectors With ID Cards
Draft-age young men in Colombia are at risk of being picked up on the streets and carried off to military barracks. The Objector ID Card is issued by WRI and ANOOC to young people (both genders, although only males are conscripted). These youth have declared a conscientious objection to military service. It is a laminated card with the objector’s photo. The card is signed by the WRI coordinator. It also quotes the UN Human Rights Commisson on CO and the Colombian constitution on Freedom of Conscience. The details of objectors holding this card are entered on a database held by WRI, ready for an alert to be sent out worldwide if need be.
The card was introduced on 15 May – International Conscientious Objection Day – 2007. In the first year, it has been issued to 70 people. All of these cardholders have made public statements of their objection to military service. The idea is that the card should look official enough to give pause to a military recruiter. WRI and ANOOC have been in touch with other NGOs and bodies inside the country, plus various embassies and international bodies to explain the scheme.
The Objector Identity Card tactic demonstrates how "virtual accompaniment" can offer safety to at-risk individuals by providing official-looking documentation and global support networks. This approach could be adapted in other contexts where marginalized or threatened groups, such as political dissidents or environmental activists, need protection from state authorities. However, implementing such tactics poses risks, as possessing the card could increase scrutiny from authorities, leading to harassment or arrest. Additionally, challenges include ensuring the card’s recognition and building a responsive international support network, which requires strong communication and collaboration with global partners.
New Tactics in Human Rights does not advocate for or endorse specific tactics, policies or issues.
