What Happens to Military Deserters?
Military desertion is a serious offense that can have severe consequences for individuals who abandon their military duties without permission. Desertion is considered a betrayal of the trust placed in a service member by their country and can result in significant legal and social repercussions. In this article, we will explore what happens to military deserters and the potential consequences they may face.
What is Military Desertion?
Military desertion is the act of leaving one’s military unit or service without permission or authorization. This can occur in various forms, including:
- Unilateral desertion: A service member leaves their unit or service without permission or notification.
- Mass desertion: A group of service members leave their unit or service together, often in response to poor conditions or dissatisfaction with their military service.
- Absence without leave (AWOL): A service member fails to return to their unit after taking leave or being absent from duty without permission.
Consequences of Military Desertion
The consequences of military desertion can be severe and far-reaching. Desertion is considered a serious offense under military law, and those who are caught can face a range of penalties, including:
- Court-martial: A service member who is accused of desertion can be tried by a court-martial, which can result in imprisonment, fines, and dishonorable discharge.
- Imprisonment: Deserters can be sentenced to imprisonment for a period of time, which can range from a few months to several years.
- Dishonorable discharge: Deserters may be discharged from the military with a dishonorable discharge, which can make it difficult to obtain future employment or benefits.
- Loss of benefits: Deserters may lose access to military benefits, including education and healthcare benefits.
- Social stigma: Desertion can result in social stigma and isolation, making it difficult for individuals to reintegrate into society.
International Treaties and Agreements
Military desertion is also governed by international treaties and agreements. The Geneva Conventions, for example, prohibit the forced recruitment of soldiers and require countries to provide safe passage to deserters. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights also protects individuals from forced labor and military service.
Desertion in Different Countries
Military desertion is illegal in most countries, but the consequences and treatment of deserters can vary significantly. In some countries, desertion is punishable by death, while in others, it may be considered a minor offense. Here are a few examples:
| Country | Consequences of Desertion |
|---|---|
| United States | Up to 10 years imprisonment, dishonorable discharge, and loss of benefits |
| United Kingdom | Up to 2 years imprisonment, dishonorable discharge, and loss of benefits |
| Canada | Up to 5 years imprisonment, dishonorable discharge, and loss of benefits |
| Australia | Up to 7 years imprisonment, dishonorable discharge, and loss of benefits |
Rehabilitation and Reintegration
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need to rehabilitate and reintegrate military deserters into society. Many countries have established programs to help deserters readjust to civilian life, including:
- Vocational training: Deserters may be provided with vocational training to help them find employment.
- Counseling: Deserters may receive counseling to address any psychological or emotional issues related to their desertion.
- Job placement: Deserters may be assisted in finding employment to help them reintegrate into society.
Conclusion
Military desertion is a serious offense that can have significant legal and social consequences. While the consequences of desertion can be severe, many countries are working to rehabilitate and reintegrate deserters into society. By understanding the laws and consequences of military desertion, individuals can make informed decisions about their military service and avoid the negative consequences of desertion.
