'Not serving isn't against the law'
Photo: AP
New campaign promoting draft-dodging launched
New Profile movement encourages teens not to enlist in army through internet ads, leaflets. 'Serving just because you have to means dodging your responsibility to choose how you wish to contribute,' group claims
A new media campaign that supports draft-dodging was launched by the New Profile movement this week. The campaign, which includes the distribution of pamphlets and internet advertisements, encourages young people not to serve in the army.
"Some 56% of youths each year (including Israeli Arabs) do not enlist in the army or do not complete army service," the movement's charter states. "Therefore no one who's been exempted from service by the army should feel bad about himself."
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The movement, which aims to promote a civilian agenda in Israel, further noted that "it is possible to live in a country that is not a soldiers' country. The State of Israel can pursue a vigorous peace-seeking policy today."
In accordance with this view, the movement's website offers information, support and personal consultation for those wishing not to serve.
"Going to the army without giving this any thought, and just because 'you have to,' means dodging the responsibility to choose a life course through which we can contribute," a pamphlet recently distributed by New Profile activists to candidates for military service said.
The leaflet also reassures those who "avoid" the draft that they are not breaking the law, and that the fact they did not serve in the army should have no impact on their ability to receive a driver's license, take a mortgage, issue a travel visa or be admitted to university in the future.
Parental guidance?
As part of the campaign, the movement also published internet ads featuring parents who support their children's decision not to serve. "My son perceived his refusal to serve in the army as nothing short of contribution to society," said Miriam Hadar, whose son Misha was sent to a military prison because of his refusal to enlist."The latest campaign against draft-dodgers… leads to a de-legitimization of entire sectors. Today my son is a student and a social and political activist. This is his way to contribute and influence, and it is no less legitimate," she added.
The IDF said in response to the new campaign: "Three days after Remembrance Day and two days after Independence Day we see no point in addressing the subject."
