International Justice

Danish government must arrest Sudanese President if he attends climate conference

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has learned that the Danish government has invited Sudanese President al Bashir to attend a meeting in Copenhagen on climate change in December.

Watch a Film for Human Rights: The Secret Policeman's Film Festival

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:40:00 EST

The American Film Institute is presenting a week-long film festival saluting three decades of great comedy and music performed for the benefit of Amnesty International at the AFI Silver Theater in Silver Spring, MD.

Time for US to Press Morocco on Human Rights Backsliding

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:41:02 EST

Recent actions taken by the Moroccan government against the press and Western Saharan rights activists suggest backsliding on core human rights such as freedom of speech, press, association and movement. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was recently in Morocco but generally praised Morocco’s human rights record despite this disturbing trend. Call on the US government to press Morocco to quickly address these recent abuses

USA: Amnesty International Asks Why Obama Can't Close Guantánamo by His Deadline

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Larry Cox, Amnesty International USA executive director, issued the following statement in response to President Barack Obama's remarks that the U.S.-controlled detention facility at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, will not be closed by his January 22, 2010, deadline.

India/USA: Open Letter to Barak Obama Ahead of his Visit to India

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

On behalf of Amnesty International USA, I urge you to candidly address human rights concerns in India during your upcoming meeting with the Prime Minister of India Manmohan Singh and to press him to make substantive improvements

Iran: Amnesty International Calls on Iran to Stop Imminent Execution of Kurdish Man

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Iranian authorities must halt the imminent execution of Sherko Moarefi, a Kurdish man convicted of "enmity against God" over his alleged membership in a proscribed Kurdish organization, Amnesty International said today.

USA: World's Largest Letter-Writing Event Saves Lives and Frees People Unjustly Imprisoned; Amnesty International Activists to Use Pens to Fight For Global Justice

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Since it takes more than a Twitter post to free a prisoner of conscience, tens of thousands of human rights activists around the world will participate in Amnesty International?s eighth annual Global Write-a-thon from December 5-13.

USA: Amnesty International Calls Transfer of 9/11 Suspects to Federal Courts "An Important Step" - Concerns Remain about Military Commissions

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Tom Parker, Amnesty International USA policy director for (counter) terrorism and human rights, issued the following statement in response to the Obama administration?s announcement that several 9/11 detainees will be transferred to federal courts:

Bangladesh: Bangladesh Government Must Hold Fair Trials to Ensure Justice for Victims of Mutiny, Says New Amnesty International Report

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International Denounces Alleged Torture of Detainees and Calls on Authorities to Provide Fair Trials in Accordance with International Standards.

USA: Amnesty International Urges Obama to Not Ignore Human Rights During his Meeting with ASEAN Leaders

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

--T. Kumar, Amnesty International USA's director for international advocacy and one of the foremost experts on Asia, issued the following statement prior to President Obama's trip to Asia including attending the APEC forum in Singapore and visiting Japan, China and South Korea. During his visit, he is reportedly scheduled to meet with ASEAN leaders on November 15.

Germany: European Governments Must Act on Human Rights 20 Years after the Berlin Wall

Mon, 9 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

On the anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, Amnesty International has called for urgent action to tackle abuses against migrants, asylum seekers, detainees and minorities.

Saudi Arabia: Foreign Nationals on Death Row in Saudi Arabia

Fri, 6 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International is aware of at least 137 people currently on death row in Saudi Arabia, of which 106 are foreign nationals. The true figures are believed to be much higher.

Turkey: No to Safe Haven for Fugitive from International Justice

Fri, 6 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has condemned an invitation extended by Turkey to Sudanese President Omar al Bashir to attend a meeting in Turkey.

United Nations: UN vote on Goldstone report a defining step for accountability

Fri, 6 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

The vote adopting key recommendations of the report on the conflict in Gaza and southern Israel earlier this year, is vitally important for ensuring that those who committed war crimes will be held accountable, said Amnesty International.

Egypt: Convictions in Abu Omar Rendition Case a Step Toward Accountability

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

US and Italian intelligence agents are convicted for their involvement in the abduction of Usama Mostafa Hassan Nasr (better known as Abu Omar).

India: EU and India Must Work Together at UN to Protect Human Rights

Thu, 5 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

The European Union and India should work together at the United Nations to protect human rights in places of crisis, Amnesty International has said in a letter ahead of the EU India summit in New Delhi.

United States: Amnesty International Urges Obama Administration to Repudiate Extraordinary Rendition as Italian Court Convicts American Spies

Wed, 4 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Tom Parker, Amnesty International USA?s policy director for (counter)-terrorism and human rights, issued the following statement in response to the Italian court?s decision to convict 23 Americans in the CIA kidnapping case of Osama Moustafa Hassan Nasr, known as Abu Omar

Guyana: Acts of torture by Guyanese police must be punished

Wed, 4 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has urged the Guyanese authorities to charge police officers involved in the torture and ill-treatment of three individuals who were detained in relation to a murder investigation.

Syria: Veteran Human Rights Lawyer Faces up to 15 Years in Syrian Prison

Wed, 4 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International believes that charges have been brought against Haytham al-Maleh simply because he exercised his right to freedom of expression.

Ethiopia: African Governments Must Reaffirm Commitment to International Criminal Court

Wed, 4 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Government representatives meeting in Addis Ababa have been urged by Amnesty International to clearly state they would prevent any officials accused of genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes from seeking safe haven in their countries.

UN: General Assembly Must End War Crimes Whitewash

Tue, 3 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Judge Richard Goldstone's report on war crimes committed in Gaza and southern Israel is to be debated by the General Assembly this week. Amnesty International has urged the UN to grasp the opportunity to address accountability.

United States: Open Letter to Barack Obama

Tue, 3 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

On behalf of Amnesty International USA, I urge you to candidly address grave human rights concerns in the People's Republic of China during your upcoming first official visit to China and press the President of China to make substantive improvements. Failure to discuss human rights abuses in a meaningful way would send the wrong signal about the seriousness with which the United States views the human rights situation in China.

Tunisia: Student Activist Held in Tunisia at Risk of Torture

Tue, 3 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Mohammed Soudani has been detained incommunicado since he met with two French radio journalists who were covering the presidential and legislative elections that took place on 25 October.

United Nations/United States/Cuba: UN Votes to Condemn United States on Cuba Sanctions

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International renewed its call today for President Obama to lift economic sanctions against Cuba, following a vote by the United Nations General Assembly condemning the decades-old embargo. The human rights organization, in a recent report, found the embargo was putting the lives of millions of Cubans at risk by blocking access to vital medicines and medical technologies.

Iran: Ayatollah Must Retract Iran Election Comments

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International is calling on Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to immediately retract his statement on Wednesday that criticising the outcome of June?s presidential election is a crime.

Belarus: Belarus Man Loses Death Sentence Appeal

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Andrei Zhuk becomes the second person to have his death sentence upheld in Belarus within the last month.

Afghanistan: Taleban Must Immediately Stop Targeting Civilians in Afghanistan

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has condemned the Taleban's attack on a guesthouse hosting staff from the United Nations in Kabul, that killed at least six civilian UN staff.

Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka Must Investigate Death Threats Against Two More Journalists

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Two female editors at national newspaper the Sunday Leader have received death threats. The paper's founder and former Editor-in-Chief was murdered in January.

Sudan: Prisoner Sentenced to Death by Special Counter-Terrorism Court in Sudan Showed Evidence of Torture, Says Amnesty International

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International said today that the Sudanese government was responsible for the death and ill-treatment of a prisoner who died from tuberculosis in police custody last week.

Zimbabwe: On Eve of Southern African Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Zimbabwe, Amnesty International Warns of Worsening Human Rights Situation in Zimbabwe

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International warned today that Zimbabwe is on the brink of sliding back into the post-election violence that erupted last year, risking the stability brought about by the creation of the unity government in February.

Israel/OPT: Israel Rations Palestinians to Trickle of Water

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has accused Israel of denying Palestinians the right to access adequate water by maintaining total control over the shared water resources and pursuing discriminatory policies.

Iran/Turkey: Iranian Refugees Released from Detention in Turkey

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Two Iranian refugees who were refused access to the asylum system in Turkey and unlawfully detained for more than a year have been released.

Iran: Iran Must Release Scholar Held for Peaceful Criticism of Election

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Dr Mohammad Maleki has been held incommunicado since his arrest in August. Amnesty International has expressed grave concern for his health as he is suffering from serious illnesses.

Saudi Arabia: Saudi King Sets Aside Flogging of Journalist Over 'Sex Life' TV Show

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has welcomed the intervention of Saudi Arabia?s head of state, King ?Abdullah bin ?Abdul ?Aziz, to cancel a flogging sentence against a female journalist.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Karadzic Trial Must Bring Justice to Victims from Bosnia War

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

The beginning of the Hague trial of former Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic is an important step towards justice for the tens of thousands of victims of the Bosnian war.

Sierra Leone: Sierra Leone Special Court Renders Final Judgment in RUF Case

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International said Monday?s decision by the Special Court for Sierra Leone to uphold the convictions of three former senior leaders of the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) is a positive

Iraq: Latest Killings of Civilians in Baghdad a 'War Crime'

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has strongly condemned the killing of at least 155 people, mostly civilians, in twin suicide bomb attacks in Baghdad.

OPT: The Day the Bulldozers Came...

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

West Bank farmer Mahmoud al-'Alam won't forget the day Israeli army bulldozers cut off his water supply... and destroyed his livelihood.

Demand justice for killing of journalist in Oaxaca, Mexico

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:23:08 EST

On October 27 2006, US video journalist Brad Will was shot and killed in Oaxaca City, southern Mexico as he filmed a clash between members of a local protest movement (Asamblea Popular del Pueblo de Oaxaca, APPO) and supporters and officials of the local governing party.

Nigeria: Nigerian government must arrest Sudanese President during visit

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International revealed on Thursday that Nigerian President Umaru Yar?Adua has issued an invitation to Sudanese President Omar al Bashir to visit Nigeria, even though President al Bashir

Iran: Mass Arrests During Prayer Service for Activists in Iran

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Up to 68 people are said to have been arrested during a prayer service in support of activists detained following protests after June?s presidential election.

Pakistan: Amnesty International Calls on Pakistani Army to Stop Harassment of Mehsud Tribe

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Pakistani military must stop its harassment of civilians from the Mehsud tribe as they flee the government?s latest offensive against the Pakistani Taliban in the northwest of the country, Amnesty International said today.

United States: Amnesty International Calls Changes to Military Commissions in FY10 National Defense Authorization Act

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International USA issued a statement in response to Congress? passage of the FY10 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that revises the rules for military commissions used to try detainees at the U.S.-controlled detention facility at Guantanamo Bay.

Iran: Iran must overturn sentences issued by post-election 'show trial'

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Iranian-American academic Kian Tajbakhsh has been sentenced to 15 years in prison by the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, for his alleged part in the protests following the June presidential election.

South Korea: Migrant workers treated as 'disposable labour'

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Many migrant workers in South Korea are beaten, trafficked for sexual exploitation and denied their wages for long periods despite the introduction of rules to protect their rights, said Amnesty International in a report issued today.

USA: Amnesty International Welcomes Congressional Passage of FY10 Homeland Security Appropriations Act Allowing Detainees to be tried in the U.S.

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

However, human rights organization rebukes Congress and administration for blocking the release of ?torture photos;? asks Congress to resist any further amendments barring detainees for trials in the United States

Uruguay: Uruguay must annul law that protects police and military torture suspects

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

A law in Uruguay that has allowed the police and military to get away with torture and murder should be annulled.

South Korea: In New Report, Amnesty International Calls on South Korea to Cease Mistreatment of Migrant Workers

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Many migrant workers in South Korea are beaten, trafficked for sexual exploitation, and denied wages for long periods of time, despite the introduction of rules to protect their rights, said Amnesty International in a report issued today.

Iran: Threat of charges against Iranian presidential candidate part of cover up

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has called on the Iranian authorities to dismiss legal action against former presidential candidate Mehdi Karroubi.

Sudan/Uganda: Amnesty International Says Uganda Must Arrest Sudanese President and Hand Him Over to International Criminal Court

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International expressed outrage today over Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni?s invitation to Sudanese President Omar al Bashir to attend a special African Union summit Monday in Kampala. The human rights organization said the Ugandan government has a legal obligation to arrest President Bashir and hand him over to the International Criminal Court for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Darfur.

USA: Amnesty International Welcomes Confirmation of Michael Posner

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International USA Executive Director Larry Cox issues a statement on the confirmation of Michael Posner.

Timor-Leste:New Amnesty International Report Says No Justice Ten Years after Independence Vote in Timor-Leste

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:00:00 EST

The U. N. Security Council should establish an International Criminal tribunal with jurisdiction over all grave human rights violations surrounding Timor-Leste's 1999 independence referendum and in the previous 24 years of Indonesian occupation, said Amnesty International in a report published today to mark the 10th anniversary of independence.

Afghanistan: Afghanistan Must Lift Media Restrictions, Says Amnesty International

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 EST

On the eve of the presidential elections in Afghanistan, Amnesty International has called on the Afghan government to reverse its ban on national and international media from reporting on cases of violence and insecurity occurring during Thursday?s election.

Afghanistan:Amnesty International Releases Ten-Point Agenda for Human Rights Prior to Afghanistan Elections

Tue, 4 Aug 2009 00:00:00 EST

As the Afghan people prepare to go to the polls in elections on August 20, Amnesty International today published a Ten-Point Agenda for Human Rights in Afghanistan, targeting the 38 presidential candidates, in a bid to improve the country's desperate human rights situation.

Global day of support for Iran's victims of human rights abuse

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST

Thousands of activists in over 105 countries will participate in a Global Day of Action on Saturday, to demonstrate solidarity with those whose human rights are being abused in Iran.

Czech Republic commits to international justice

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Czech Republic finally ratified the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court on Tuesday.

ASEAN's new body must protect and promote human rights

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations should ensure that its newly established human rights mechanism has the necessary powers to do its job properly.

African Union refuses to cooperate with Bashir arrest warrant

Mon, 6 Jul 2009 00:00:00 EST

The African Union has refused to cooperate with a war crimes arrest warrant against Sudan President Omar al-Bashir.

States must be held accountable for violations abroad, says Amnesty International

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has told the Council of Europe Assembly, that states should be held accountable for violations committed by their forces in operations outside their borders.

UN Security Council should support ICC over Darfur

Fri, 5 Jun 2009 00:00:00 EST

The UN is urged to reject calls to block prosecutions of persons charged with crimes against humanity and war crimes in Sudan, including President Omar al-Bashir.

Sri Lanka: Urgent Need for Human Rights Protection in Sri Lanka, Says Amnesty International

Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:00 EST

As the war between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil Tigers (LTTE) reaches its final hours and the humanitarian crisis unfolds, Amnesty International is calling for key steps to be adopted to ensure civilians and captured fighters are protected.

First Sudanese suspect to appear before the International Criminal Court

Mon, 18 May 2009 00:00:00 EST

The International Criminal Court announced on Sunday that the leader of the Darfur United Resistance Front will appear in Court on Monday.

Sri Lanka: Amnesty International Calls on President Obama to Urgently Act to Prevent Human Tragedy in Sri Lanka

Fri, 15 May 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International calls on President Obama to urgently act to prevent the indiscriminate killing of civilians in the current conflict between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in Sri Lanka.

Demanding justice for Nepal's civil war victims

Fri, 1 May 2009 00:00:00 EST

During the Nepalese civil war between 1996 and 2006, Amnesty International documented the killing, enforced disappearance and torture of thousands of civilians.

Fujimori brought to justice

Thu, 9 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST

Human rights advocates everywhere celebrated the conviction of Alberto Fujimori on Tuesday, April 7th, for crimes committed during his time in office. In a landmark decision, Peru's Supreme Court concluded that Fujimori bore personal responsibility for three massacres during the 1990s, including the case of La Cantuta in which nine university students were kidnapped and killed.

Obama - Building trust and respect for human rights in the US

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST

Those who watched Barack Obama take office on 20 January were part of a far-reaching celebration of the once seemingly impossible becoming reality.

Film Screening and Discussion

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 10:13:20 EST

The Amnesty International Glendale Community College Student Group will host screenings of Justice Without Borders documentary that explores the global movement toward ending impunity for grave human rights abuses through the implementation of international justice systems and cross-border accountability.

Israel/Occupied Territories: Israeli army probe lacks credibility and is no substitute for independent investigation

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Israeli army should make public the full details of the findings of its probe into some of its attacks during the 22-day Gaza military offensive, Amnesty International said today in reaction to the army?s conclusion that its forces had committed no violations and only rare mistakes, some of which may have resulted in the killing of Palestinian civilians.

Israeli army must make public findings of its probe into Gaza conflict

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Israel Defense Forces' probe has concluded that it committed no human rights violations and made only rare mistakes, some of which may have resulted in the killing of Palestinian civilians.

Mexico: Violent Crime and Insecurity in Mexico Are Rooted in Legacy of Impunity and Injustice from Past

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

There Is Insufficient Evidence To Prosecute Former President Luis Echeverria For Genocide Committed In The 1968 Massacre Of Students In Mexico City

Cambodia: Historic Day for Cambodian Victims

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

As Cambodia's most notorious suspected killer finally prepares to face trial on Monday for crimes committed while he was a Khmer Rouge commander 30 years ago, Amnesty International urged the Court conducting the trial to increase its caseload.

USA: Jailed Without Justice

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

More than 300,000 men, women, and children are detained by US immigration authorities each year as a tool to combat unauthorized migration, which falls short of international human rights law

United Nations: Ratifications of International Treaties to Abolish the Death Penalty

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

States may become parties to international treaties either by acceding to them or by ratifying them

Serbia (Kosovo): Hearing Into Deaths In Kosovo Could Find UN Accountable

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

The UN Mission in Kosovo's (UNMIK) accountability for the deaths of two young men during a demonstration two years ago will finally be investigated by a public hearing in June

UN urged to 'find truth' about Gaza conflict

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

A group of 16 of the world's leading war crimes investigators and judges - backed by Amnesty International - has urged the United Nations to launch a full inquiry into the Gaza conflict.

USA: Obama Administration's Removal of Enemy Combatant Designation is a Strong Symbolic Gesture, Says Amnesty International

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

Larry Cox, Amnesty International USA executive director, issued the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Justice announcement that it is "withdrawing" the designation of "enemy combatants" from war-on-terror suspects.

Sudan: Amnesty International Condemns Sudan, Demands that Aid Agencies Be Allowed to Continue Life-Saving Work in Darfur

Thu, 5 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

The Sudanese government is effectively holding the entire civilian population of Darfur hostage; an aggressive act that must be condemned in the strongest possible terms by the African Union, the League of Arab States, and the international community as a whole.

International Criminal Court "working to protect African victims"

Thu, 5 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

The International Criminal Court Prosecutor, Luis Moreno-Ocampo, discusses the ICC's work in the wake of the court's decision to issue an arrest warrant for Sudan's President, Omar al Bashir.

Millions face starvation and disease as aid agencies are expelled from Darfur

Thu, 5 Mar 2009 00:00:00 EST

The expulsions came soon after the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omar al Bashir, on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Call on Authorities to Commute Death Sentences in Iran (UA 50/09)

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 16:58:48 EST

Abdollah Farivar Moghaddam was executed by hanging on 19 February 2009 in Sari Prison in northern Iran. Along with eight others, he had been sentenced to be stoned to death for the crime of adultery while being married. According to Iranian law, adultery while being married carries a mandatory sentence of execution by stoning.

Sudan: In New Analysis, Amnesty International Finds Key Nations

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 EST

In a new analysis, Amnesty International says key nations such as China, Egypt, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States could be offering greater support to the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Darfur through equipment, troops, and financial support. Operating below its full mandated strength, the peacekeeping mission is crippled by a lack of equipment like helicopters and ground transport, according to Amnesty International, while civilians continue to be attacked with impunity.

Uganda: Amnesty International Chides International Organization Reportedly Helping Lord's Resistance Army Fugitive to Evade Justice

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International today severely criticized the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for agreeing to facilitate the transfer of a senior leader of the Lord?s Resistance Army to Uganda, instead of to the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Gaza: Attacks on ambulance workers in Gaza

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

Emergency medical rescue workers, including doctors, paramedics and ambulance drivers, have repeatedly coming under fire from Israeli forces in the Gaza conflict while carrying out their duties.

Film Screenings and Discussion

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 11:40:11 EST

Amnesty International Pittsburgh will host film screenings and discussions on social justice.

Prevent Forcible Return of Eritrean Asylum-Seekers from Egypt (UA 348/08)

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 16:40:35 EST

Egyptian authorities have been deporting asylum-seekers back to Eritrea without giving them the chance to have their asylum claims considered. Their return to Eritrea puts them at risk of imprisonment, torture, and other serious human rights violations.

USA: USA: Executive order to close Guantánamo a major step forward

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International's Secretary General Irene Khan has called President Barack Obama?s executive order to close the Guantánamo detention facility "a major step forward" and a "welcome sign that the new administration is willing to right the wrongs of the past."

YUKOS Vice President Released on Bail in Russia

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

On 31 December 2008, Vasilii Aleksanian was released on bail of 50 million rubles (more that US$1.5 million). The money had been collected during a campaign in his support. Vasilii Aleksanian, a former vice-president of the Russian oil company YUKOS, was detained on 6 April 2006 and accused of embezzlement and tax fraud. In October 2006 he was diagnosed with HIV infection, and subsequently developed AIDS and several other diseases, including lymphatic cancer, tuberculosis and a cataract; he has also developed a tumor in his kidney. Under Russian law, a person diagnosed with such serious health problems should not be kept in pre-trial detention. In mid-November, he had surgery to remove his spleen. Soon afterwards his condition deteriorated, but improved again in late December. Vasilii Aleksanian spent 31 December with his family, including his six-year-old-son, whom he last saw three years ago.

Iranian Political Prisoner Released on Bail

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

Jamila Nabgan is now free on bail, and is no longer being detained for 14 hours a day by the Ministry of Intelligence. She had been arrested at her family home in Shush, Khuzestan province, on 19 October by Ministry of Intelligence officers. She was released on bail five days later, on condition she reported every morning to the Ministry of Intelligence detention facility in Ahvas, Khuzestan province, where she would be detained from 8 am until 10pm. Her brother, Habib Nabgan, is a prominent member of the outlawed political party Lejnat al-Wefaq (Reconcilitation Committee), which promotes the rights of the Arab minority in Iran. His wife, Ma'soumeh Ka'bi, fled to Syria in May 2008, and the authorities believe she had help from Jamila Nabgan. Jamila Nabgan had been arrested in May 2008 and held for two days of questioning about her sister-in-law's flight to Syria, at the Ministry of Intelligence detention facility in Ahwaz.

Israel/Gaza: Amnesty International Urges Impartial Probe of Israeli Shelling of United Nations Compound in Gaza

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International is calling for an immediate and independent investigation into the Israeli army's shelling today of a United Nations compound in Gaza City, disrupting the distribution of humanitarian aid to Gaza's beleaguered civilians and injuring three UN workers. The United Nations Relief and Work Agency (UNRWA) has reported that shells - apparently containing white phosphorous - struck their compound in Gaza City, injuring three people and setting on fire one building that housed emergency humanitarian assistance.

International Criminal Court: Clarifying the scope of the crime of rape

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

On the eve of the first hearing in the International Criminal Court (ICC) to decide whether to confirm charges of rape as a crime against humanity and as a war crime, Amnesty International hopes that the Pre-Trial Chamber will confirm in its judgments a strong definition of rape which will help ensure prosecutions for this crime which pervades so many current conflicts

Call for a Fair Trial of Canadian National in Guantanamo (UA 04/09)

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:25:50 EST

Omar Khadr is facing unfair trial by military commission in the US Naval Base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, for crimes he is alleged to have committed when he was 15 years old. He is now facing a "war crimes" trial, the procedures of which do not comply with international fair trial standards.

Prevent Forcible Return for Iranian Men to Iran (UA 03/09)

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 15:55:40 EST

Shaheed 'Abdulhussain 'Abbas 'Amouri, Mohammed 'Ali 'Abdulzahra Hamad 'Amouri and Naji 'Aboud Obidawi are at risk of being forcibly returned from Iraq to Iran where they would face torture or even the death penalty.

Book Club Reading

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 14:34:44 EST

Amnesty International's International Justice and Accountability - Chicago will host a reading "What is the What" by Dave Eggers

USA: Amnesty International to Hold Worldwide Vigils Marking the 7th Anniversary of Guantanamo Bay and Urging New Administration to Close Facility

Thu, 8 Jan 2009 00:00:00 EST

To mark the seventh anniversary of the first detainees entering the U.S.-controlled detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, Amnesty International and other social justice organizations will hold vigils and other events during the month of January calling for the closure of the facility as part of Amnesty International?s 100 Days of Action.

Former military official "instigated Rwandan genocide"

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

A former senior defence official was convicted on Thursday of instigating Rwanda's 1994 genocide and committing crimes against humanity and war crimes.

Rwanda: Conviction in Major Case Against Planner of Rwanda Genocide Sends Strong Message That Justice is Being Served, Says Amnesty International

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Vienna Colucci, director of International Justice for Amnesty International USA issued the following statement today in response to the conviction by a U.N. tribunal of Colonel Theoneste Bagosora for the Rwandan genocide:

60th Anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights: Time to Deliver

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has called on governments to make the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights a time for action not just for celebration.

An evening of education, action, and hope

Mon, 1 Dec 2008 08:33:18 EST

Amnesty International-NYU, Amnesty International-Brooklyn, and Amnesty's International Justice & Accountability Team present: Justice Now: What We Can Do Today To Protect The People Of Darfur

DRC: Amnesty International Calls on African Summit Leaders to Press for UN Peacekeeping Reinforcements To Protect Civilians in Congo

Thu, 6 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International is calling on African and international leaders meeting Friday, November 7 in Nairobi, Kenya, to urgently press the United Nations Security Council to reinforce the UN peacekeeping force in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo to better protect civilians.

Mexico: Serious concern regarding the investigation into Brad Will's murder.

Mon, 27 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International is gravely concerned at the arrest of two supporters of the Popular Assembly of the People of Oaxaca (Asamblea Popular del Pueblo de Oaxaca, APPO) for the 2006 murder of U.S. journalist Brad Will during street disturbances in Oaxaca City.

UN: Amnesty International Public Statement on the Montreux Document on Pertinent International Legal Obligations and Good Practices for States related to the Operations of Private Military and Security Companies during Armed Conflict

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Montreux Document on Pertinent International Legal Obligations and Good Practices for States related to the Operations of Private Military and Security Companies during Armed Conflict was endorsed by seventeen States on 17 September 2008.

Viva Guatemala! Discussion, Dinner and Cultural Celebration

Mon, 6 Oct 2008 17:15:09 EST

Amnesty International Local Group 361 will host an afternoon of education, food and festivities at Viva Guatemala! A screening of Amnesty's short documentary film, "Justice Without Borders" will also be shown.

Sudan: At September 25 Rally Outside United Nations, Amnesty International To Send Message to UN Security Council on Darfur:

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

(New York)- Human rights activists with Amnesty International USA will demonstrate outside the United Nations on Thursday evening, September 25, to press the UN Security Council to reject the efforts of some countries to block the International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation of Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir for crimes against humanity, genocide and war crimes committed in the Darfur region of Sudan.

Colombia: Submission to the UN Universal Periodic Review: Third session of the UPR Working Group of the UN Human Rights Council, December 2008

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

In this submission, Amnesty International provides information under sections B, C and D, as stipulated in the General Guidelines. Amnesty International raises issues related to the legal framework for the demobilization of paramilitary groups; reparation for victims of human rights abuses; implementation of the Rome Statue of the International Criminal Court; and children and armed conflict. The submission also includes concerns about human rights violations by paramilitary groups; extrajudicial executions; enforced disappearances; forced displacement of civilians; attacks on human rights defenders and trade unionists; and human rights abuses by guerrilla groups.

International Justice Day 2008

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 17:33:54 EST

This week, AIUSA activists marked International Justice Day in commemoration of the day ten years ago on which the international community adopted the groundbreaking treaty establishing the International Criminal Court -- and the day each year on which activists throughout their world call on their governments to help make the promise of that treaty a reality. This year's celebration couldn't come at a more important time in history.ï¿½ï¿½

Read the letter from Vienna Colucci to international justice activists.

Sudan: Amnesty International Says ICC Prosecutor Announcement an Important Step for Darfur

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Reacting to the announcement by the International Criminal Court Prosecutor that he will seek an arrest warrant against Sudanese President Al-Bashir, Amnesty International USA issued the following comment from Curt Goering, Senior Deputy Executive Director:

Croatia: Set of recommendations to combat impunity of war crimes

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

This briefing paper focuses on Amnesty Internationals concern in relation to an ongoing problem of impunity for war crimes. It identifies the main obstacles in prosecution of war crimes and suggests practical solutions. It recommends that Croatia should deal with its war time past in line with the Updated Set of Principles for the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights Through Action to Combat Impunity (Set of Principles or Principles) which was developed by the United Nations Commission on Human Rights.

Sudan: UN Security Council must ensure Sudan arrests war crimes suspects

Thu, 5 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

Sudan: UN Security Council must ensure Sudan arrests war crimes suspects

Sri Lanka: Review of Sri Lanka under the Universal Periodic Review: Amnesty International?s reflections on the outcome

Sun, 1 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

Themes raised by member states participating in the review of Sri Lanka under the UPR dialogue included concerns related to the lack of protection of civilians caught in the internal conflict; enforced disappearances, unlawful/extrajudicial killings; torture and other forms of ill treatment, threats to freedom of expression, the need to strengthen national human rights institutions, attacks on dissent and ongoing impunity for human rights violations.

World: Dangerous Flashpoints over Basic Rights Define 2008 State of Human Rights in Annual Global Report

Wed, 28 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

Organization Calls On Governments to Respond to Growing Frustration and Angry Demands for Justice, Freedom and Equality

ICC Prosecutor to Report to U.N. on June 5

Thu, 22 May 2008 12:11:12 EST

On June 5th, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) is scheduled to report to the U.N. Security Council on the progress of the ICC's investigation in Darfur. Leading up to his report, Amnesty International activists around the world are calling on the U.N. Security Council to press the government of Sudan to arrest and surrender to the ICC suspected war criminals Ahmad Harun and Ali Kushayb...

Sudan: Call for the arrest of suspected Sudanese war criminals

Tue, 13 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

On 27 April 2007 the International Criminal Court (ICC), an international tribunal, issued two arrest warrants against government minister Ahmad Harun and Janjawid leader Ali Kushayb.

UK: UK Must Pursue Investigations Against Suspected War Criminal

Fri, 9 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International UK expresses disappointment that despite six months of investigation, the United Kingdom authorities have not been able to amass sufficient evidence to determine whether it is possible to mount a successful prosecution of a Sri Lankan commander suspected of torture, hostage taking and war crimes.

Sudan: Arrest Now! Darfur, Sudan: Ahmad Harun and Ali Kushayb

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Ahmad Harun and Ali Kushayb are wanted for trial at the ICC to establish their guilt or innocence concerning multiple counts of crimes against humanity and war crimes. This document urges the United Nations Security Council to: condemn Sudans refusal to arrest and surrender Ahmad Harun and Ali Kushayb to the ICC; call on Sudan to enforce all ICC arrest warrants immediately; and take other effective measures to ensure that the two men are arrested and surrendered to the ICC.

Sudan: Justice for Darfur Campaign

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

"Justice for Darfur" is a campaign supported by human rights organisations worldwide, calling on the international community to ensure the prompt arrest and surrender to the International Criminal Court of the persons charged with crimes against humanity and war crimes in Darfur, Sudan. The campaign is launched on the first anniversary of the issuance of the arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Sudan: Open letter to the United Nations Security Council

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

AI Index: AFR 54/016/2008 (Public)

Sudan: Open letter to the European Union

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

AI Index: AFR 54/017/2008 (Public)

USA: Governments and United Nations Must Push for Release of 350 People Kidnapped in Central Africa by Lord's Resistance Army, Says Amnesty International

Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International today called on the United Nations and governments in Central Africa to take immediate action to secure the release of more than 350 men, women and children thought to have been abducted by the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) in recent weeks.

Check out AIUSA's New Film "Justice Without Borders"

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 10:48:36 EST

"Justice Without Borders" is a 37-minute documentary film by Amnesty International USA and Skylight Pictures. The film explores the current landscape of international justice through the stories of survivors and the legal cases they are pursuing in Peru, Chile, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, The Hague, Guatemala and Spain.
| Watch the film! | About the project | Sign up today to host a screening!

Uganda strikes deal with LRA on trials

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Ugandan government has struck a deal with the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) about where their leaders will be tried.

Justice failed in Kosovo

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 00:00:00 EST

War crimes and crimes against humanity from the Kosovo conflict in the late 1990s risk being left unpunished as a result of a failed UN justice mission.

Palestinian Refugees Caught in the Iraq Crossfire, Amnesty International Says in a New Report

Mon, 1 Oct 2007 00:00:00 EST

Palestinian refugees living in Iraq are the hidden victims of the Iraq conflict-suffering threats, torture, killings and appalling living conditions in refugee camps such al-Waleed near the Syrian border-according to a new report by Amnesty International.

Sudan: Arrest Now! Darfur, the Sudan: Ahmad Harun and Ali Kushayb [Fact Sheet]

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 00:00:00 EST

Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories: Enduring occupation. Palestinians under siege in the West Bank

Mon, 4 Jun 2007 00:00:00 EST

The West Bank, the focus of this report, is a relatively small territory. It is criss-crossed by a web of Israeli military checkpoints and blockades and a winding 700-kilometre fence/wall encircling Palestinian villages as well as whole neighbourhoods around East Jerusalem. The stringent restrictions on movement imposed on more than two million Palestinians who live in the West Bank are unlawful as they are disproportionate, discriminatory and violate the right to freedom of movement. The restrictions are imposed on all Palestinians because they are Palestinians and in order to benefit the Israeli settlers whose presence violates international law.

Sudan: Time is running out. Protect the People of Darfur

Sun, 1 Apr 2007 00:00:00 EST

Chad: Civilians under attack. Darfur conflict spreads to eastern Chad.

Thu, 1 Mar 2007 00:00:00 EST

"A man in green uniform came and shot the men one by one along the line in the head.

Chad: 'Are we citizens of this country?' : Civilians in Chad unprotected from Janjawid attacks

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 00:00:00 EST

This report documents evidence of the deliberate and targeted killing of communities, the rape and other crimes of violence against women, and the destruction of homes and civilian property in eastern Chad. Amnesty International is concerned that such human rights abuses and violations of international humanitarian law have been committed throughout eastern Chad. Amnesty International's research strongly suggests that killings, rape and forced displacement have been committed in a systematic and widespread manner and that crimes against humanity have been committed.

Sudan: Darfur: Threats to humanitarian aid

Fri, 1 Dec 2006 00:00:00 EST

Tens of thousands of people in Darfur are at risk of dying for lack of humanitarian aid. Three years into the armed conflict, more than three million people depend on humanitarian assistance. The massive aid operation put in place in 2004, albeit late, has saved hundreds of thousands of lives but is now under threat. In August 2006 the access of humanitarian organizations to the civilian population fell drastically to its lowest level since 2004. Civilians directly affected by renewed conflict urgently need access to life-saving assistance.

Sudan: Government's Solution: Janjawid unleashed throughout Darfur

Fri, 24 Nov 2006 00:00:00 EST

This document urges that action be taken to protect civilians in Darfur. Brutal attacks on civilians by Janjawid nomad militia are taking place in many parts of Darfur. The attacks serve the Sudan government's strategic ends. Two years after the first UN Security Council resolution on Darfur grave violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law continue unabated in Darfur. They include mass forced displacement, unlawful killings, and looting of civilian property. Attacks directed at civilians violate the most basic rule of international humanitarian law. They constitute war crimes and can be crimes against humanity.

Amnesty International Magazine article: Darfur: A Call to Action

Wed, 6 Sep 2006 00:00:00 EST

The Sudanese conflict has spiraled into a scorched-earth campaign of violence and destruction that is now spilling into Chad. Join Amnesty members around the world in 100 Days of Action to fight illegal arms sales, protect the displaced and demand justice for war criminals.

Sudan/Chad: International action needed to protect civilians from cross-border attacks

Thu, 29 Jun 2006 00:00:00 EST

As the African Union heads of state gather in Banjul, The Gambia, and the UN Security Council discusses the deployment of UN peacekeepers in Darfur, Amnesty International today called for urgent action to be taken by the international community to protect civilians in eastern Chad from cross-border attacks originating in Sudan.

End Impunity for Bosnian Serb War Crimes Suspects

Fri, 1 Jul 2005 16:57:00 EST

Ten years ago, some 8,000 Bosniaks (Bosnian Muslims) were massacred after the UN "safe area" of Srebrenica fell to the Bosnian Serb Army. Crimes committed in Srebrenica have been recognized as amounting to genocide by the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia. Although some perpetrators have been prosecuted at the Tribunal, indicted suspects are still free.