Pacifists seek end to conscript duty
A pacifist group says it will shortly launch an initiative aimed at abolishing the compulsory military service for male Swiss citizens.
The Group for Switzerland without an Army said the conscript system is outdated and infringes on the personal freedom of individuals.
However, a civilian service at a voluntary basis should be maintained, according to a statement.
In 1989 an initiative for the abolition of the armed forces was rejected, but about one in three voters approved it.
Under the country militia system, every able male citizen aged 20-34 gets basic training and has to do regular refresher courses.
The group meeting in Solothurn on Saturday also decided to maintain its initiative for a ban on a purchase of new fighter jets.
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