My name is PK and I'm a Ukrainian asylum seeker in the UK. I'm using my initials because of the precarious nature of my status.

I came here with my wife in 2014 to escape having to serve in the Ukrainian military. I'm fighting for asylum so I don't have to fight in a war in which human rights are violated on a regular basis. 

If you believe that laws which criminalise people who refuse to fight in a war breach human rights please support my legal challenge - I can't do this without you. Please contribute anything you can and most importantly share this page on social media with friends and family. 

Legal Case

I claimed asylum on the grounds that I was a draft evader and would face persecution back in Ukraine on that basis. 

My case raised an issue as to whether a draft evader facing a non-custodial punishment for failing to serve in an army which regularly commits acts contrary to International Humanitarian Law is entitled to refugee status.

Surely the answer should yes? 

If asylum rules don't allow people to flee from oppressive military service where they could be forced to commit human rights abuses what is it for?   

My initial application was refused by the Home Office. However, following a successful appeal, I now have another hearing at the end of March after my case was remitted to the Upper-Tribunal. 

You can review my successful hearing judgement from the Court of Appeal here. 

This isn't only about me. ‘Shoot them for what?’ (Muhammad Ali)

Muhammad AliMillions of people around the world are forced to fight in conflicts and take part in military action they know to be contrary to fundamental human rights. 

I am launching this legal action to set a new precedent that would help other people in a similar situation to me and my family.

How much I'm raising and why? 

The funds would be delegated to cover the legal expenses, including senior barrister QC (queen's council) , who is instructed in the matter to present the client in the Upper-Tribunal. 

Ultimately, I need to raise £30,000, which will cover the barrister fees of senior barrister QC and junior barrister, who are already instructed on the case and lead the previous successful appeal.