I have met with four individual conscientious objectors. They have shared their stories, but for the moment they would like to stay anonymous.

The individuals shared their experiences in the military and prison and how their lives have been affected: they cannot take an active part in life as full citizens as they can’t have ID, bank accounts or rent a home, amongst other implications. One of them is a pacifist, two are gay, one is Kurdish: they talked about how the issues are confused even by people close to them. For example, the gay people are against any form of war/violence not because of their sexual identity but because they believe in peace. The Kurdish person was accused of siding with terrorists (PKK, considered a terrorist organisation) by the authorities rather than them recognising his views on peace.