Analysis: Mercenaries, Conscientious Objectors, and the Abolition of War

Three other overtures deal with issues pertinent to but much bigger than the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. "On War, Mercenaries, and Profiteering," from Scioto Valley Presbytery, makes the point that "it is immoral to wage war or kill for money, even assuming the war or conflict is just." It notes the impunity of military contractors, who have evaded prosecution or accountability for their roles in the massacre of seventeen Iraqi civilians by military contractor Blackwater USA, the Abu Ghraib prison scandal, or other human rights abuses, even where military enlisted personnel involved are now in prison. The overture asks that use of military contractors be prohibited, and that violations of human rights by these mercenaries be investigated, prosecuted, and punished.

The Presbytery of San Fransisco has submitted "On Supporting Those Who Feel Called to Seek Status as Conscientious Objectors." This overture reaffirms the long-standing denominational recognition of the validity of a C.O. position, and reminds us of the procedures for registering with the Stated Clerk. It also requests some programmatic support for the policy in the form of study guides, educational opportunities, and C.O. support structures at all levels of the church. Now is the right time for such renewed attention to the freedom of conscience position of the PC(USA).

"On Peacemaking and the Pursuit of Justice and Fairness of Shalom," from Twin Cities Presbytery, really tries to cover it all. Here are the recommendations (all of them):

1. Stand for constructive national and international policies based on peacemaking and the pursuit of justice and fairness of shalom;
2. Stand for international communication and cooperation, for conflict resolution by non-violent means, and for the enforcement of international law as formulated in the United National Charter, international treaties, and agreements;
3. Support efforts to abolish war and to oppose the doctrine of preemptive war;
4. Promote civil liberties and rights to due process; and
5. Oppose torture and degrading treatment of human beings, and support efforts for the promotion of human rights.

This very general overture could prove a useful policy foundation for Presbyterians wishing to advocate against almost any future preemptive military action, possibly against Iran, Venezuela, or our next "enemy."