Matter of R-A-N-
29 I&N Dec. 739 (BIA 2026)
2026
Holding
(1) Conscription does not serve as a standalone basis for asylum absent a nexus to a protected ground. (2) Conscription requiring an alien to engage in internationally condemned inhuman conduct constitutes persecution only when tethered to a protected ground. (3) International condemnation of Russian military actions is insufficient; the respondent must show he himself would necessarily be required to engage in inhuman conduct on account of a protected ground.
Practitioner Note
Directly addresses Russian military conscription claims. Conscientious objection to military service requires nexus to political opinion or another protected ground — generalized objection to war crimes is not enough.
This summary describes what the tribunal held. Always verify the citation and read the full decision before relying on it. Case law changes — confirm this decision has not been overruled, limited, or superseded. Not legal advice.