Amnesty International

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Amnesty International focused on the human rights implications of the crisis. The organization advocated for equitable access to vaccines, protection of vulnerable populations, and the safeguarding of civil liberties amidst emergency measures imposed by governments worldwide.

Amnesty International adopted a policy in 2015 calling for the decriminalization of sex work. The policy was based on evidence that criminalization leads to increased human rights abuses against sex workers. Amnesty's stance aimed to protect the rights and safety of sex workers worldwide.

In 2012, Amnesty International intensified its efforts against the death penalty, calling for its global abolition. The organization highlighted the arbitrary and discriminatory application of capital punishment and its failure as a deterrent, advocating for humane and just alternatives.

Amnesty International launched the 'Demand Dignity' campaign in 2007, focusing on ending human rights abuses that drive and deepen poverty. The campaign aimed to address issues such as forced evictions, maternal mortality, and corporate accountability, highlighting the interconnectedness of human rights and poverty.

Following the September 11 attacks in 2001, Amnesty International emphasized the importance of protecting human rights while addressing terrorism. The organization advocated against the erosion of civil liberties and the use of torture and unlawful detention in the name of national security.

In 1991, Amnesty International expanded its mandate to include opposition to human rights abuses committed by non-state actors, such as armed groups. This marked a significant shift in the organization's approach, allowing it to address a broader range of human rights violations beyond those perpetrated by governments.

Amnesty International launched its 'Stop Torture' campaign in 1985, aiming to end the use of torture by governments around the world. The campaign focused on raising awareness, advocating for legal reforms, and supporting victims of torture. It was a significant step in Amnesty's broader human rights advocacy efforts.

Amnesty International was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1977 for its efforts to secure the release of prisoners of conscience and to promote human rights globally. The Nobel Committee recognized the organization's significant impact in raising awareness and advocating for human rights issues worldwide.

Amnesty International published its first report, highlighting the cases of prisoners of conscience around the world. This report marked the beginning of the organization's efforts to document and publicize human rights abuses, a practice that would become central to its mission and advocacy work.

Amnesty International was founded in London by British lawyer Peter Benenson. The organization was established to advocate for the release of prisoners of conscience and to promote human rights worldwide. Benenson was inspired to create the organization after reading about two Portuguese students imprisoned for raising a toast to freedom.