Conscientious objection to military service was illegal in the Soviet Union. It was legalised in Russia in 2004, and objectors can do “alternative service” in civilian roles instead of serving in the army. Unfortunately many local authorities and draft boards do not understand the legislation, or they are hostile to it and spread misinformation.
Friends House Moscow supports a service in Kazan that provides advice and legal assistance to would-be conscientious objectors. The service called “For Our Sons” also helps serving conscripts and their families when they encounter problems.
FHM also helps to finance Alternativshchik, a newsletter for conscientious objectors. This has been published several times a year and distributed throughout Russia, and is now going online.