Colombia’s Senate on Tuesday has taken the first steps to abolish mandatory military service, local media report.
A bill proposed by Liberal Party Senator Juan Manuel Galan would eliminate compulsory military service for of age Colombian men.
A 1993 law mandates that “all Colombian men are obligated to arrange their military situation when they reach 18 years of age.”
Galan’s prospective changes would allow Colombians to conscientiously object from military service. Those who choose this option, however, must replace military service with social service.
“Conscientious objection has to do with people’s beliefs and values which disqualify them from military service and [those people] are entitled to that right,” the senator said.
The bill must pass a Senate vote before moving to the House of Representatives.
