Amnesty International

Amnesty International is a non-governmental organization (NGO) with its headquarters in the United Kingdom. The organization focuses on human rights. The objective of Amnesty International is to conduct research and generate action to prevent and end grave abuses of human rights, and to demand justice for those whose rights have been violated.

History

Amnesty International was founded in London in 1961, following the publication of the article "The Forgotten Prisoners" in The Observer on 28 May 1961, by the lawyer Peter Benenson. Citing the Universal Declaration of Human Rights articles 18 and 19, it announced a campaign on "Appeal for Amnesty, 1961" and called for "common action".

Structure

Amnesty International is a democratic movement, unique in the world for being financed mainly by its membership and public donations. No funds are sought or accepted from governments for its work in documenting and campaigning against human rights abuses.

Campaigns

Amnesty International's campaigns include, but are not limited to, abolishing the death penalty, ending torture, ending gender discrimination, protecting the rights of refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers, and protecting the rights of prisoners of conscience.

Criticism and Controversy

Amnesty International has been criticized for its perceived bias, particularly with regard to its focus on the policies of developed countries. Critics have accused the organization of ideological bias, and some governments have banned Amnesty International's activities within their borders.

See Also

• Human Rights Watch
• International Federation for Human Rights
• World Organisation Against Torture
• Survival International
• Médecins Sans Frontières

References

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