A court in Berlin has recognized the right of Russian draft evaders to seek asylum.

The court recognized the plaintiffs' so-called subsidiary status: this is granted to refugees who face serious harm in their country of origin, against which they cannot defend themselves. The plaintiffs sought asylum under this rule, but their requests were denied.

The Administrative Court of Berlin, after reviewing the applications, ruled in their favor. The judges justified their decision by stating that both Russians are likely to face conscription for military service and forced deployment to the war in Ukraine upon their return home in the foreseeable future. There, they could be compelled to participate in unlawful activities and be exposed to risks to their life and health.

The court acknowledged that, according to recent data, the Russian government is coercing conscripted soldiers into signing contracts for deployment to the war.

Additionally, during deployment in the Kursk region, where conscripts could potentially be sent, the plaintiffs would likely face "inhumane and degrading treatment," the ruling states.

Radio Liberty News Release: