CONSCIENCE TO RESOLVE ISSUE OF MILITARY SERVICE FOR SERBS IN DANUBE

ZAGREB, Aug 26 (Hina) - The Green Party (ZS) considers it just for Serb nationals in the Croatian Danube Region not to be eligible for military service until January 15, 2000. However, the party considers that any extension of this deadline or permanent measures could mean "privileges and disturbance of equality for all citizens". In a press release issued Thursday, the Green Party notes the "institution of freedom of conscience is a satisfactory basis to resolve the problem of serving military service for Serbs in the Croatian Danube region".#L# The party reminded anyone waiting for military service had the right to freedom of conscience and by it to serve civil duties rather than military service. Older recruits had the same right when reserve duty was at stake. "Even during the war, some Serb nationals living in areas under Croat control submitted for exemption under this condition and usually came across the understanding of Croat authorities", the party emphasised. "When everyone is given the opportunity to use their freedom of conscience then military service will not pose a particularly political problem, ZS's press release concluded. In keeping with peaceful reintegration in regions under UNTAES, it was agreed that Serb nationals would not be called up for military service until January 15, 2000. (hina)