ARRC is representing U.S. Slavic communities in bringing attention to the persecution of Christian pacifists in Ukraine, Russia, and other post-Soviet states. Reports indicate that Christians who refuse compulsory military service on religious grounds face detention, physical abuse, forced conscription, and criminal prosecution.
Boris Perchatkin, a veteran human rights advocate and former Soviet-era prisoner of conscience, has documented systemic violations, including the denial of alternative civilian service, harassment of family members, and the closure of churches.
The activists are calling on the United States to establish a special immigration quota for Christian pacifists, including those in the country under the Uniting for Ukraine program or with irregular immigration status, citing the risk of persecution or imprisonment if returned. They emphasize that such measures would reaffirm the nation’s commitment to protecting freedom of conscience. To advance this effort, ARRC has launched a fundraising campaign to support sustained advocacy and provide legal assistance to affected individuals.