Legal Definitions - Amnesty International

Amnesty International is a prominent global organization dedicated to protecting and advocating for human rights worldwide. Established in the early 1960s, it operates independently of any government or political ideology. Its primary mission is to ensure that all people can enjoy the fundamental rights outlined in international agreements, such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, through meticulous research, advocacy, and public campaigns.

• Example 1: Campaigning for Freedom of Expression
  Imagine a scenario where a university student in a particular country is arrested and imprisoned solely for peacefully organizing a protest against a new government policy. Amnesty International would investigate the case, gather evidence, and if it determines the student is a "prisoner of conscience" (someone imprisoned for their beliefs or identity who has not used or advocated violence), it would launch a global campaign. This campaign might involve urging supporters to write letters to the authorities, issuing public statements condemning the detention, and lobbying international bodies for the student's immediate release.
  This illustrates Amnesty International's role in defending fundamental freedoms, specifically the right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, by advocating for individuals whose rights are violated by state actions.
• Example 2: Documenting and Exposing Torture
  Consider a situation where credible reports emerge from a conflict zone detailing widespread use of torture and ill-treatment by security forces against detainees. Amnesty International would deploy researchers to the region (if safe and possible) or gather testimonies remotely, meticulously documenting the abuses. They would then publish a comprehensive report, detailing the methods of torture, identifying perpetrators where possible, and calling on the government and international community to investigate, prosecute those responsible, and implement safeguards to prevent future abuses.
  This demonstrates Amnesty International's commitment to investigating human rights violations, such as the prohibition of torture, and holding states accountable to international standards through detailed reporting and advocacy for justice.
• Example 3: Advocating for Refugee Rights
  Suppose a group of asylum seekers fleeing persecution arrives at a border, but the neighboring country immediately attempts to deport them back to the dangerous situation they escaped, without proper legal process. Amnesty International would monitor such developments, issue urgent appeals to the government involved, and highlight the international legal obligations of states to protect refugees, including the principle of non-refoulement (not forcing refugees or asylum seekers to return to a country where they are liable to be subjected to persecution). They might also lobby international organizations to intervene.
  This showcases Amnesty International's work in protecting the rights of vulnerable populations, like refugees, by ensuring states adhere to international humanitarian and human rights law.