Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the policy of forcibly enlisting the local population into the Russian occupation army has intensified in the temporarily occupied territories (TOT) of Ukraine. This forced mobilization of Ukrainian citizens blatantly violates Articles 49 and 51 of the Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War. These provisions explicitly prohibit the Occupying Power from compelling civilians to serve in its armed forces or participate in war crimes. Furthermore, such actions contravene the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, which classifies the involvement of civilians—whether voluntary or involuntary—in hostilities as war crimes.
The occupation authorities employ a range of coercive tactics to enforce this so-called mobilization. Psychological pressure is applied to men of military age, who face threats of arrest, property confiscation, or expulsion from the territory if they refuse to sign contracts. Simultaneously, administrative pressure is exerted, with those who refuse to serve being denied access to social benefits, medical care, and even the right to leave the region.
These manipulative practices are compounded by disinformation campaigns orchestrated by the occupiers. Every day, they spread false narratives about the “voluntary support” of the local population and the fabricated “obligation” to serve in the occupation army.You can stop the policy of the Russian invaders and their collaborators by publicizing their crimes and demanding their international prosecution.
You can also participate in rallies in support of Ukraine or donate to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
