Abolish the Death Penalty

China, Iran and Jamaica go against trend on executions

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The execution of a Chinese scientist on Friday is the latest in a series of executions that are going against the global trend towards a moratorium on the death penalty.

Washington Execution Stayed

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 16:20:00 EST

Two separate courts (a County Superior court and a Federal District court) have issued stays of execution for Darold Stenson, who was scheduled to be put to death by the state of Washington on December 3. According to media reports, these stays will be appealed by state and county officials who are still hopeful that the [...]

Prevent the Execution of a Man in Saudi Arabia (UA 324/08)

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 15:45:28 EST

'Abdullah Fandi al-Shammari's execution was scheduled for mid-November, following an intervention by the Crown Prince, he was granted a 30-day reprieve so his family could seek pardon from the family of the person he was convicted of killing. He is now due to be executed within 20 days.

Prevent Execution of Washington Man (UA 323/08)

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 15:10:39 EST

Darold Stenson is scheduled to be executed in Washington State on 3 December. He has spent 14 years on death row but maintains his innocence of the crime and has been pursuing a stay of execution in a bid to obtain modern DNA testing of evidence from the crime.

Jamaica: More executions will not reduce crime

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Jamaica’s crime epidemic must be solved with reforms to the police and the justice system, not with more death, said Amnesty International after the Jamaican House of Representatives voted a motion to retain the death penalty.

China: Amnesty International Urges China to Stop the Execution of Wo Weihan

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International today called on the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress to pardon 59 year-old medical scientist Wo Weihan, echoing his daughter's concerns about the fairness of his trial and conviction.

People's Republic of China: Stop the execution of Wo Weihan

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International today called on the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress to pardon 59 year old medical scientist Wo Weihan, echoing his daughter’s concerns about the fairness of his trial and conviction.

Vigil for Troy Davis

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:33:51 EST

Help us call for justice and show support for Troy Davis! We will have signs and buttons to give out, as well as a limited number of t-shirts.

Screening of

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:32:47 EST

The Amnesty International University of Texas at San Antonio Student Group will host a screening of "At the Death House Door".

Death Penalty Discussion Panel

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:32:27 EST

Please join Amnesty International and Stetson University Law School for a split panel debate on capital punishment.

Innocence Symposium

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 13:29:49 EST

Students for the Innocence Project & the Black Law Students Association of William & Mary Law School present the First Annual Innocence Symposium from 12:45 pm to 7:30 pm.

No Rational Explanation

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 22:57:00 EST

The death penalty isn?t as popular out West as it is down South. For example, there hasn?t been an execution in Washington since 2001, and there have been only four total in the 30+ years since the death penalty was reinstated in 1976. Not that there are never any serious crimes in The Evergreen State. Gary [...]

No Rational Explanation

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 22:57:00 EST

Prevent Two Executions in Saudi Arabia (UA 309/07)

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 17:24:15 EST

Indian nationals Sheikh Mastan and Hamza Abu Bakir have exhausted all possible appeals against their death sentences. The sentences are now awaiting the approval of the Supreme Judicial Council, headed by the King. If the sentences are approved, the two men could be executed within days.

How Will YOU Celebrate Human Rights Day?

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 23:17:00 EST

Now, the outgoing Bush administration?s plans for celebrating Human Rights Day ?08 can finally be revealed! On December 10, they are going to carry out the first U.S. Military execution in 47 years, when they put Ronald Gray to death by lethal injection. According to CNN and several other media sources, Private Ronald Gray, a former [...]

How Will YOU Celebrate Human Rights Day?

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 23:17:00 EST

It's Separation of Church and State, Stupid

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 23:01:00 EST

Not persecution of the Church by the State. Unfortunately for Patriarch "Abune" Antonios of the Eritrean Orthodox Church, the government of Eritrea doesn't think that way. Considered a prisoner of conscience by Amnesty, he has been under house arrest since January 2006 after continually resisting government interference in religious affairs. Minority faith groups such as the [...]

It's Separation of Church and State, Stupid

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 23:01:00 EST

Tireless witness to state killing

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

An interview with Sister Prejean, Roman Catholic nun, formidable campaigner against the death penalty and author of the Pulitzer Prize nominated book, Dead Man Walking.

Troy Davis Gets Hearing

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 22:53:00 EST

The U.S. Court of Appeal for the Eleventh Circuit has scheduled oral arguments for December 9 in the case of Troy Davis. This was something that Davis? lawyers requested, and that the state of Georgia argued against. The main question before the Court will be whether Davis has met the conditions required to file a second, [...]

Troy Davis Gets Hearing

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 22:53:00 EST

You're Free to Go Now...Just Kidding!

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 21:17:00 EST

Can someone please explain this to me? How is it OK to arrest someone, send them to Guantánamo, keep them there a couple years, clear them for release, and then not let them leave? Among all the things that confuse and upset me about the way the US government has dealt with the detainees at [...]

UN reinforces call to end executions

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Over 100 countries have adopted a second United Nations resolution calling for a moratorium on the use of the death penalty.

UN General Assembly reinforces call for moratorium on executions

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International welcomes today’s adoption by the General Assembly’s Third Committee of a second resolution calling for a worldwide moratorium on the use of the death penalty.

Circles of Healing: An Exploration of the Spiritual Health of a Community That Executes

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:31:21 EST

As execution dates approach, please join the Capital Restorative Justice Project for a day of learning, sharing, listening, and moving forward.

UN: Majority support expected in UN vote on death penalty moratorium

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

A large majority of states from all regions are expected to back a second resolution by the UN General Assembly (Third Committee) on Thursday calling for a moratorium on the use of the death penalty.

"? whether Davis may be executed if he can establish actual innocence ?"

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 17:24:00 EST

This is one of the questions before the U.S. Court of Appeals, Eleventh Circuit, in Atlanta, which is currently considering Troy Davis? petition for permission to try again to get a hearing on evidence that he is innocent. The fact that executing someone even if they ?establish actual innocence? is up for debate demonstrates how far [...]

Film Screening - "At the Death House Door"

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:26:45 EST

Amnesty International Local Group 10 will host a screening of "At the Death House Door".

Vigil for Troy Davis

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:13:43 EST

There will be a vigil for Troy Davis at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign at 8:00 p.m.

Center on Wrongful Convictions 10th Anniversary Celebration

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:11:00 EST

Northwestern University School of Law event featuring a cocktail reception followed by the off-broadway hit, "The Exonerated", with actual exonerees playing themselves.

Forced Eviction in the Name of Progress?

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 22:22:00 EST

How many times, in how many countries, in how many cities, have we heard this story? Governments try to force poor people off land they've lived on for years, sometimes decades, so that it can be developed and put to "better use". Who cares if they're shoving people into slums with no running water or [...]

Can the Death Penalty Cause Wrongful Convictions?

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 19:30:00 EST

Yes. It happened most recently in Nebraska, where 6 men were sentenced to various prison terms for involvement in a murder they had nothing to do with, because some of them ?confessed? after being threatened with the death penalty. DNA tests have ultimately exonerated them all, revealing that, according to the Lincoln Journal Star, the [...]

Poetry and Hip-hop Benefit for Troy Davis

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:28:52 EST

Poets for Political Prisoners presents "Free Troy Davis", a benefit which will launch the creation of The Troy Anthony Davis Scholarship Fund.

Maryland Commission Votes for Death Penalty Repeal

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 19:59:00 EST

On Wednesday, the Maryland Commission on Capital Punishment voted to recommend repealing the death penalty in Maryland. The Commission was created by the Maryland General Assembly to conduct a thorough study of capital punishment in that state. After five public hearings and hours of testimony from both experts and the general public, the Commission determined [...]

Afghanistan: Afghanistan moves towards a wide use of executions

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Afghan government executed nine people last week. President Hamid Karzai has recently approved death sentences for at least another 111.

Commission Votes for Repeal in Maryland

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

On Wednesday, November 12, the Maryland Commission on Capital Punishment voted to recommend repealing the death penalty in Maryland. The Commission was created by the Maryland General Assembly to conduct a thorough study of capital punishment in that state. After five public hearings and hours of testimony from both experts and the general public, the Commission determined that Maryland's death penalty is racially and geographically biased, more expensive, harmful to victims' families, and not a deterrent. The Commission also concluded that there is a "real possibility" of executing an innocent person in Maryland. The solution to these fundamental flaws, the Commission found, is to repeal the death penalty.

"A Hole in the Law?"

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 22:54:00 EST

Earlier today, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Bell v. Kelly, a Virginia case that has important implications for death penalty litigation. The issue in the case is complex. Under federal law, federal courts are required to give great deference to state court rulings on claims raised in a federal habeas petition that have already been [...]

A presidential pardon would not preclude accountability

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 06:11:00 EST

The worth of a law is in its enforcement; if a law is not enforced, then it has no more value than a platitude, aspiration, or preference. Because of this reason, one of AIUSA?s CTWJ campaign goals 100 days goals for the new administration is ?accountability.? Or in other words, AIUSA will demand that the [...]

Afghanistan: Stop Move Toward Wide Use of Executions

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

The Afghan government must immediately repeal the death sentences against 111 people who are on death row, Amnesty International said today, following reports of the execution of nine people since last week, which may signal further executions ahead.

Suicide By Court

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 21:38:00 EST

On November 21, Kentucky is set to execute Marco Allen Chapman, who was sentenced to death for the murder of two children in 2002. He rejected efforts to defend him at trial, and has refused to pursue any appeals. Since the moment of his arrest, when he asked police to shoot him in the head, [...]

Battling Impunity in Guatemala

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 19:12:00 EST

Excavating human remains, using forensic techniques to identify them, hoping the evidence will help bring the killers to justice--it may sound fascinating and even glamorous to some, but this is no "CSI Miami". These investigators have been threatened, followed, watched, and shot at on many occasions because of their work to combat impunity. The Guatemalan [...]

Urge Gov. Perdue to Grant Clemency for Troy Davis

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 08:11:21 EST

Troy Davis faces execution for the murder of Police Officer Mark MacPhail in Georgia, despite a strong claim of innocence. 7 out of 9 witnesses have recanted or contradicted their testimony, no murder weapon was found and no physical evidence links Davis to the crime. The Georgia Board of Pardon and Paroles has voted to deny clemency, yet Governor Perdue still has the power to demonstrate respect for fairness and justice by granting clemency to Troy Davis.

Bali Bombers Executed

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 23:15:00 EST

On Saturday, November 8, Indonesia executed three men (Amrozi bin H. Nurhasyim, Ali Ghufron, aka Mukhlas, and Imam Samudera) known as the ?Bali Bombers?, because of the bombings for which they were convicted on the island of Bali which killed over 200 people, many of them tourists from Australia. The days leading up to these [...]

Indonesia: Make today's executions the last

Sat, 8 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Today's execution of three people known collectively as the “Bali Bombers” should be the last time Indonesian authorities use the death penalty, said Amnesty International.

The Dangerous Act of Raising a Flag

Fri, 7 Nov 2008 23:02:00 EST

With all the patriotic spirit and flag-waving (and questions about lapel pins) that we've been seeing lately surrounding the Presidential election here in the United States, it can be easy to forget just how powerful a symbol a flag can be, and how heavy a price can be exacted for raising the wrong one. But [...]

Why Does New Hampshire Have the Death Penalty?

Thu, 6 Nov 2008 22:31:00 EST

A jury in New Hampshire has just sentenced a white millionaire businessman named John Brooks to life without parole for the capital murder of Jack Reid in 2005. This was New Hampshire?s first death penalty trial in 49 years; New Hampshire has no one on death row and has not carried out an execution since [...]

A Success Story on a Small Island

Thu, 6 Nov 2008 19:36:00 EST

In the middle of all the interest in the American election, there was an election halfway around the world last week that got me thinking about a brave young woman from the Maldives named Jennifer Latheef. I met her at an Amnesty meeting two years ago where she spoke at a panel of former prisoners of [...]

There Is No Justification In Keeping Gitmo Open

Thu, 6 Nov 2008 00:33:00 EST

Below is my reply on the Wall Street Journal?s Opinion Piece of Nov. 4, 2008: Guantanamo Revelation. I served in the military for 14 years, including three deployments to the Middle East. My last deployment was to Iraq for Operation Iraqi Freedom and I remain deployed in Baghdad after its fall until December, 2003. As an Arabic speaker, [...]

Future Danger

Wed, 5 Nov 2008 23:32:00 EST

In the Philip K. Dick short story (and Steven Spielberg / Tom Cruise film) The Minority Report, a special agency known as Precrime relies on psychic ?precogs? to anticipate and thus prevent murders before they happen. It is an interesting and thought provoking scifi premise, but, disturbingly, we?re actually sort of really using it to decide [...]

This is Our Last Post! Subscribe to the New Amnesty Blog

Wed, 5 Nov 2008 15:31:00 EST

Dear Reader,This is our last post to the Amnesty International Death Penalty Blog. We are discontinuing our issue-based blogs to launch one new Amnesty International Blog, Human Rights Now, that will cover all human rights news and opportunities for you to make a difference.

Check it out today for the latest Death Penalty and human rights news and be sure to subscribe so you won't...

USA: President-elect Obama: 100 days to demonstrate commitment to human rights

Wed, 5 Nov 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International is calling on US president elect Barack Obama to take concrete steps to demonstrate commitment to human rights.

Innocence and the death penalty

Tue, 4 Nov 2008 14:04:00 EST

The recent execution of Gregory Wright in Texas reminds us that possible innocence will not always shield an inmate from the death chamber. Gregory Wright was convicted of murdering Donna Vick in 1997 along with accomplice John Adams. Mr. Wright consistently maintained his innocence, passed a polygraph test in which he stated that he did not murder Donna Vick, and Mr. Adams signed a statement...

Commute the Death Sentences of Four Women in Iran (UA 59/08)

Mon, 3 Nov 2008 18:37:59 EST

Soheila Ghadiri, one of five women sentenced to death in Iran, has been pardoned and has had her death sentence commuted. Four other women are still at risk of execution.

When Victims and their Familes are Against Capital Punishment

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 15:36:00 EST

A district attorney in North Carolina will seek the death penalty despite opposition to capital punishment by the victim and her family.

Orange County District Attorney Jim Woodall announced in August that he would seek the death penalty for the murder of Eve Carson, former student-body president of the University of North Carolina. Woodall will do so in spite of evidence that Carson...

Indonesia: Bali bombers to face firing squad

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Three men convicted of involvement in the 2002 Bali nightclub bombings, which killed 202 people and injured a further 209, are to be executed in early November.

Somalia: Girl stoned was a child of 13

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Contrary to earlier news reports, the girl stoned to death in Somalia this week was 13, not 23, Amnesty International can reveal.

USA: Another stay of execution for Troy Davis

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Troy Davis was granted a provisional stay of execution on Friday, just three days before he was scheduled to be put to death.

Japan: Hakamada Iwao [Global letter-writing marathon 2008]

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Hakamada Iwao is suffering from mental illness after spending over 28 years in solitary confinement and lives with the constant fear of execution. After an unfair trial, he was convicted of the 1966 murder of the boss of the factory where he worked, and the man's wife and two children. Hakamada Iwao appears to have been sentenced to death principally on the basis of a confession extracted under duress.

Japan: Two men hanged in Japan

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

The executions of Michitoshi Kuma and Masahiro Takashio were the first approved by Minister of Justice Mori Eisuke since he took office in September.

Two stays in 24 hours!

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 12:42:00 EST

AMAZING NEWS! Both Troy Davis and Bobby Woods were granted stays of execution! Bobby Woods' execution was stayed after his lawyers raised claims that he is mentally retarded and is legally ineliglible for execution under U.S. Supreme Court standards. His execution was originally scheduled for last night.

The execution for Troy Davis was stayed this morning! This stay is for...

Take Action for Gregory Wright

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 16:17:00 EST

One of the nine inmates on death row in Texas facing execution in the next 30 days is Gregory Wright. (Bobby Woods is scheduled to be executed by Texas tonight.) Like Troy Davis, Mr. Wright has serious claims of innocence that have not been heard in court. Take action to encourage Rick Perry, Texas' governor, to do everything in his power to commute this death sentence.

And good...

USA: In Final Days Before Troy Davis Execution Date, Concerned Public Worldwide Demands Action

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

As the scheduled execution date for Troy Anthony Davis fast approaches, national and international support for Davis is on the rise, with the public demonstrating its outrage over the refusal to hear evidence in Davis? favor, Amnesty International USA (AIUSA) reported today.

Global Day of Action for Troy Davis

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 17:15:00 EST

As many of you know, Thursday, October 23 (tomorrow) is the Global Day of Action for Troy Davis. There will be rallies, demonstrations, and vigils held around the country and around the world. Find an event in your area - show your concern for and support of Troy Davis by taking ACTION! There are certainly other ways to show your support for Troy Davis - check our website for other ideas. ...

Stop Child Offender Executions in Iran

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 08:45:59 EST

Iran is one of the only countries in the world that still executes children and child offenders. At least 15 child offenders have been executed in Iran in the last two years. On October 16, 2008, The Government of Iran announced an end to this shameful practice, but on October 18 Iran clarified that this directive would not apply to child offenders sentenced to qesas or retribution. The vast majority of the more than 130 juveniles sentenced to death in Iran still face execution.

Nigeria: Corrupt justice system targets the poor

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Hundreds of people on death row did not have a fair trial and may be innocent. Amnesty International's new report calls for an immediate moratorium on the death penalty.

Nigeria: "Waiting for the hangman"

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

(Abuja) Amnesty International today said that hundreds of those awaiting execution on Nigeria’s death rows did not have a fair trial and may therefore be innocent.

Iran: Juveniles still to face the noose

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

A senior judicial official in Iran has said that the judicial execution of juvenile offenders convicted of murder will continue in the country.

Iran: The end of child executions

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Iran has instructed all courts to stop issuing death sentences against juvenile offenders. However, it is not clear if the directive includes those convicted of murder.

Execution Date Set for Troy Davis

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 16:50:00 EST

The Georgia Authorities wasted no time in issuing a death warrant and setting October 27th as the day Troy Davis will be executed. That means we have only 10 days to make it known to the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles, the sole authority in granting clemency in capital cases in the state, that executing a man whose case for innocence has never been heard in court is not only unjust, it is...

Iran: Announcement of end of child executions a welcome step

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International calls on the Head of Iran’s Judiciary to apply with immediate effect today’s announcement that it will end the death penalty for those under the age of 18, irrespective of the type of crime allegedly committed.

Appeal denied by U.S. Supreme Court

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 17:25:00 EST

The U.S. Supreme Court today announced that it has denied to hear Troy Davis' appeal, which means that the stay issued by the high court three weeks ago has expired. This essentially means that the Georgia Authorities now have the power to seek a new death warrant and, ultimately, set a new execution date for Davis.

We are asking all activists to continue writing letters to the...

Saudi Arabia: Executions disproportionately target foreign nationals

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

The government of Saudi Arabia executes an average of more than two people a week - almost half are foreign nationals from poor and developing countries.

Saudi Arabia: Affront to Justice: Death Penalty in Saudi Arabia

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has been documenting the Saudi Arabian authorities extensive use of the death penalty for over a quarter of a century. This report is the latest evaluation, made in light of the legal, judicial and human rights changes that have been introduced in recent years in the country. The report details cases of death row prisoners on whose behalf Amnesty International has campaigned. It also includes testimonies of former detainees, some of whom have been under sentence of death.

USA: Amnesty International Decries U.S. Supreme Court Decision to Deny Troy Davis Petition

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International USA (AIUSA) decried today's U.S. Supreme Court decision to deny a new hearing for Georgia death-row inmate Troy Anthony Davis. The Court had granted Davis a stay of execution just hours before he was scheduled to be put to death while it decided whether to hear the case. In denying Davis' petition for a writ of certiorari, the Court has effectively ended a long-standing battle to have new evidence in Davis' favor heard in a court of law.

World Day Against the Death Penalty

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 11:11:00 EST

Today is the fifth annual World Day Against the Death Penalty. Every October 10 for the past six years, abolitionists from across the globe rally to oppose capital punishment and enforce the idea that abolition is a global struggle. This year, the focus will be on abolition in Asia, where Amnesty International estimates that there were at least 644 reported executions in 2007.

Asia...

Iraq: New evidence further undermines the right to fair trial

Thu, 9 Oct 2008 00:00:00 EST

Iraq: New evidence further undermines the right to fair trial

Partnership on the Death Penalty and Mental Illness

Wed, 8 Oct 2008 17:01:00 EST

Murder Victims' Families for Human Rights (MVFHR) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) have joined together to launch a national project opposing the death penalty for persons with severe mental illness. While virtually every country has banned execution of the mentally ill, and the United States Supreme Court has ruled that executing insane prisoners violates the Eighth Amendment...

Support Clemency for Richard Cooey

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 16:34:00 EST

Richard Cooey is scheduled to be executed in Ohio next Tuesday, October 14. He was sentenced to death on December 5, 1986, after being convicted of two counts of murder by a three-judge panel. He has spent nearly 22 years on death row. Cooey's sentence is of particular concern for several reasons.

Cooey was merely 19 when convicted. Not only has he accepted responsibility for...

No action from Supreme Court on Troy's case

Mon, 6 Oct 2008 10:59:00 EST

The United States Supreme Court took no action on Troy Davis's appeal and may consider the case at their next conference this Friday, October 10. If they do decide on his case on Friday, the order will be released on the next Tuesday, the 14th. We'll continue to keep you updated as we know more. In the meantime, you can continue to take action on our website. Thanks!

JM,...

Former FBI Director urges Supreme Court to hear Troy Davis case

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 14:04:00 EST

Former FBI Director William S. Sessions, a supporter of the death penalty, has called for the Supreme Court of the United States to grant certiorari in the Troy Davis case.

Sessions, also the former Chief Judge for the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas and current member of the Constitution Project's Death Penalty Committee, acknowledged the serious nature of a...

A message from Troy Davis

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 15:01:00 EST

Below you will find a message my brother Troy mailed to me on September 22, 2008 the night before his scheduled execution in Georgia, it was for all the people who belive in Justice and in him, so I hope you get a small glimpse of what Troy's spirit is really like.

~ Martina Correia, sister of Troy Anthony Davis

__________________

To all

This is a...

No news is good news

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 17:22:00 EST

We have all been waiting to hear from the US Supreme Court and, so far, there has been no news. If there is no decision from the Supreme Court by noon tomorrow (Tuesday, September 30), the death warrant for Troy will expire. There is still a possibility that the Court will decline to hear the case and a new execution date will be set. We will update you as soon as we hear anything. ...

USA: Stay of execution for Troy Davis

Wed, 24 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

Troy Davis received a stay of execution on Tuesday less than two hours before he was due to be put to death by lethal injection in Georgia.

Stay of execution!

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 17:45:00 EST

The Supreme Court of the United States has blocked the scheduled execution of Troy Davis!

The Court issued an order staying the execution until Monday to give itself time to consider his certiorari appeal. Should the Court deny the petition for the writ of certiorari, the stay will terminate automatically. If the petition is granted, the stay will terminate in accordance with the...

USA: Amnesty International Praises Stay of Execution for Troy Davis

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International USA today welcomed the order from the Supreme Court of the United States to stay the execution of Troy Anthony Davis hours before his scheduled execution.

Execution of Troy Davis Tomorrow - Actions Planned

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 18:50:00 EST

The scheduled execution of Troy Anthony Davis is now less than 24 hours away. It is important that we continue to show our disapproval of the decision to deny him clemency. Please take action today if you haven't already, and continue to spread the word. In the sad event that there is no intervention tomorrow, we encourage everyone to organize vigils or other public events to mark this tragic...

Thank you for you continued support!

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 14:40:00 EST

Last night's events in support of Troy Davis were a big success!

The Atlanta march drew around 300 people. Amnesty International members, along with members of the NAACP and other supporters, marched through downtown Atlanta to the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where a prayer vigil was held. Check out pictures (courtesy of Asha, our field organizer in Atlanta) of the march and a report of...

USA: Activists, Concerned Citizens March for Davis on Thursday

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

This Thursday, September 18 at 6:00 pm, Amnesty International USA, the NAACP, community leaders and concerned citizens from across Georgia will hold a peaceful march to demand justice for Troy Anthony Davis.

Continue to take action in support of Troy Davis

Tue, 16 Sep 2008 17:15:00 EST

In spite of the recent decision by the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles to deny Troy Davis clemency, action still can and needs to be taken on his behalf. There are two events this week to attend to show your support for Troy.

For those in and around the Atlanta area, there will be a March to Save Troy Davis this Thursday, September 18 at 6 p.m. Meet at Edgewood Avenue and...

Urge Board to Reconsider Clemency

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 16:33:00 EST

In light of the troubling decision by the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles to deny clemency to Troy Davis, it makes sense that there is only one course of action to take. We will continue, tirelessly, to urge the Board to reconsider its decision! The Board has the power to revisit this decision and, possibly, reverse it. Please join us by taking action!

There is just one week...

USA: Amnesty International Condemns Parole Board Decision to Allow the Execution of Troy Davis

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International (AIUSA) today condemned in the strongest possible terms the decision to deny clemency to Troy Anthony Davis. The human rights organization, after attending today’s clemency hearing, called the decision a baffling and unbelievable perversion of justice.

Japan: Should adopt death penalty moratorium

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

Three men were executed in Japan on Thursday 11 September 2008. Amnesty International has called for the government to immediately adopt a moratorium on executions.

Troy Davis: Clemency Denied

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 18:05:00 EST

The Georgia Board of Pardon and Paroles has denied clemency for Troy Anthony Davis.

I planned to use this blog entry to tell you all about the amazing, beyond amazing, rally in Atlanta last night - attended by hundreds of supporters - on behalf of Troy Davis. Alas, this horrible news has come instead.

No rational person can deny that there is serious and substantial doubt...

Argentina: Death penalty abolished

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

This latest initiative paves the way for other countries to follow suit, and makes Argentina the sixth country to ratify all the human rights instruments of the inter-American system.

USA: Groundswell of Support for Troy Davis in Days Leading Up to Clemency Hearing, Reports Amnesty International

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

On the eve of his clemency hearing at the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles, support for Troy Davis has reached an all-time high, reported Amnesty International today.

Execution date for Jack Alderman

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 12:43:00 EST

Georgia has scheduled a September 16 execution date for Jack Alderman. This date is less than a week away - so please take action! You can go to www.justiceforjack.org to sign the petition right now!

And please don't forget to spread the word.

Thanks!

Death Penalty Abolition Campaign, AIUSA

Send a text for Troy!

Thu, 11 Sep 2008 10:24:00 EST

Got a cell phone? Text "TROY" to 90999!

That's it, so easy. You will get a text message back that you can send to everyone in your phonebook to ask them to take action on behalf of Troy Davis. That's all you have to so - so send the text now!

Today is the DEADLINE for taking action by sending a letter to the Georgia Board of Pardon and Paroles asking that they grant...

Charles Dean Hood's execution stayed

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

The execution of Charles Dean Hood, scheduled for September 10, has been stayed by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals. The stay was not based on the highly publicized allegations that Hood's trial judge and prosecutor were involved romantically during the time of his trial, but was in response to a challenge that his jury was given flawed instructions. News accounts have also reported that, in their reprieve request to Texas Governor Rick Perry, Hood's attorneys stated that the former judge and prosecutor in question admitted to the affair under oath earlier this week in a separate civil proceeding. Thanks to all who took action on his behalf!

Clemency Hearing for Troy Davis

Mon, 8 Sep 2008 13:42:00 EST

The Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles will hold a clemency hearing on Friday, September 12 where they will hear from the attorneys of Troy Davis. Troy is scheduled to be executed by the state of Georgia on September 23, even though his serious claims of innocence have never been heard in court. You can read more about his case here.

Take action now! Send a letter to the Georgia...

USA: Amnesty International, NAACP Rally for Troy Davis

Mon, 8 Sep 2008 00:00:00 EST

This Thursday, September 11 at 6:00 pm, on the eve of Troy Anthony Davis clemency hearing, Amnesty International, the NAACP and community leaders will rally at the state capitol to demand justice for Davis.

Some Good News

Thu, 4 Sep 2008 18:04:00 EST

While the scheduling of Troy Davis for execution (despite the fact that he has never had a hearing on the seven of nine non-police witnesses who have recanted their trial testimony) still sinks in, there is also some good news to report.

In Texas, a hearing on whether a judge and prosecutor were having an affair during a death penalty trial has now been rescheduled so that it takes...

New Execution Date for Troy Davis

Wed, 3 Sep 2008 17:10:00 EST

Troy Davis is scheduled to be executed by the state of Georgia on September 23, even though his serious claims of innocence have never been heard in court.

Take action right now to stop this execution!

Troy Davis was convicted of murder solely on the basis of witness testimony, and seven of the nine non-police witnesses have since recanted or changed their testimony, several...

Texas: First the Execution, Then the Hearing

Thu, 28 Aug 2008 11:11:00 EST

Charles Dean Hood is scheduled to be executed on September 10. The good news is that a hearing has been scheduled to consider explosive evidence about the fairness of his original trial, involving allegations that the prosecutor and the judge were involved in a romantic relationship during his trial. The bad news is that the hearing is scheduled for September 12, two days after the...

Child Offender Executions Continue

Wed, 27 Aug 2008 12:52:00 EST

Yesterday, Iran executed another juvenile offender. That makes 6 so far this year (221 non-juvenile offenders have also been put to death in Iran). No other country has executed a juvenile offender this year, though a few in Saudi Arabia are at serious risk.

Behnam Zare' was 15 years old at the time of the crime, a murder that took place during an argument. He was hanged in...

In Memoriam: Rachel King, 1963-2008

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 11:38:00 EST

We are sad to announce the passing of a long-time anti-death penalty activist, who died yesterday after a long battle with cancer. Rachel achieved many great things in her short lifetime, and we will be forever grateful for her extraordinary contribution to this world. Please read the beautiful tribute to Rachel on the blog of Murder Victim's Families for Human Rights.

Two Stays

Fri, 22 Aug 2008 12:10:00 EST

Both Dennis Skillicorn and Jeff Wood have received stays of execution; in both cases, they had been sentenced to death despite the fact that they did not actually kill.

But neither stay was related to that issue.

In Skillicorn's case, the Missouri Supreme Court chastised the state for "obstruction of clemency advocacy", for blocking his lawyer's efforts to develop a...

Executing Accomplices

Thu, 21 Aug 2008 10:44:00 EST

UPDATE: Jeffery Lee Wood was stayed this afternoon by a federal judge in order to allow for more time to evaluate his mental capacity.

Jeffery Lee Wood and Dennis Skillicorn are two death row inmates that have something in common--they both were scheduled to be executed within a one week time span for crimes in which they did not directly kill the victim. Wood's clemency petition was...

Sudan: Hundreds held without charge after 10 May attack

Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST

After eight alleged members of the Justice and Equality Movement were sentenced to death by Sudan's Anti-Terrorism Special Courts, the government prepares to try another 109.

Iran: Suspension of stoning executions a welcome step if carried out

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has welcomed last week's announcement by the spokesperson for Iran's Judiciary that execution by stoning has been suspended.

Mentally Ill Offenders Languishing on Death Row

Wed, 13 Aug 2008 17:01:00 EST

Raymond Riles has spent 33 years on Texas death row for the 1974 robbery and murder of Houston used car salesman John Henry. In the nation's most active execution state, Riles' stay on death row defies standards set in place by Texas to ensure that executions take place as speedily as possible. Despite this, Riles has no execution date or no plans for one. So why is Riles still on death...

Iran's Judiciary to Review Stoning

Tue, 12 Aug 2008 17:45:00 EST

Last Wednesday, Iranian press reported that Iran's Judiciary had drafted legislation to remove stoning from their methods of execution. The draft legislation has been submitted to the parliament for approval, where the parliament's legal commission will prepare a final draft for Iranian MPs to vote on. Legislation is only final if accepted by the Guardians Council, which can veto legislation...

Another Foreign National Executed in Texas

Fri, 8 Aug 2008 10:38:00 EST

Last night, two nights after putting Mexican national Jose Medellin to death, the state of Texas executed Heliberto Chi, a national from Honduras. He was convicted of a killing Armand Paliotta during a robbery in the Dallas area in 2001.

Unlike Mexico in the Jose Medellin case, Honduras did not appeal to the International Court of Justice, or World Court, but the government of...

Mexican national executed in Texas

Thu, 7 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST

José Medellín was put to death in violation of the USA’s international legal obligations and despite worldwide appeals for the execution to be stopped.

Live from the Maryland Commission...

Wed, 6 Aug 2008 15:37:00 EST

Yesterday's Maryland Commission on Capital Punishment featured a continuation of racial, jurisdictional, and socio-economic disparities in capital punishment sentencing. The Commission heard expert testimony on the U.S. Supreme Court and Maryland Death Penalty Law. The exploration of these topics offered revealing questions about the practicality of the death penalty in Maryland and the costs...

Jose Medellin Executed

Wed, 6 Aug 2008 10:09:00 EST

In upholding the José Medellin execution the unsigned opinion of Supreme Court's 5-4 majority makes some strange arguments. First, they insist that:

"The beginning premise for any stay, and indeed for the assumption that Congress or the legislature might seek to intervene in this suit, must be that petitioner's confession was obtained unlawfully."But the denial of Medellin's right to...

Iran: Iranian Government Must Ensure Suspension of Stoning is Not a Hollow Promise, Urges Amnesty International

Wed, 6 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International welcomed the announcement by the spokesperson for Iran?s judiciary that execution by stoning has been suspended, as a result of which several women have had their sentences commuted.

USA: Texas execution violates international law

Wed, 6 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST

"The execution of José Ernesto Medellín Rojas by the state of Texas is a violation of international law," said Amnesty International today.

Iran: Announcement of suspension of stoning a welcome step if carried out

Wed, 6 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International welcomed the announcement by the spokesperson for Iran’s judiciary that execution by stoning has been suspended, as a result of which several women have had their sentences commuted.

Fact Sheets

Mon, 4 Aug 2008 00:45:00 EST

Find information about all aspects of the death penalty including death penalty costs, death penalty statistics and arguments against the death penalty. Download the Fact Sheets in PDF format.

Scheduled Executions in the U.S.

Mon, 4 Aug 2008 08:45:00 EST

See the current list of pending executions in the US.

Death Penalty Curriculum Guide

Mon, 4 Aug 2008 00:30:00 EST

Since 1976, when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that executions could resumeafter a four year moratorium, more than 1,050 people have been executed in thiscountry. Approximately 3,370 men and women remain on death row throughoutthe United States. The goal of this curriculum guide is to encourage students toquestion the ethics behind the death penalty, which the United States SupremeCourt called “cruel and unusual punishment” in its 1972 decision of the Furman vs.Georgia case, due to the arbitrary nature of its application. Download the Curriculum Guide in PDF Format.

Death Penalty Statistics 2007

Mon, 4 Aug 2008 00:15:00 EST

In 2007 the world continued to move closer to the universal abolition of the capital punishment. Historical landmark towards the worldwide abolition of death penalty is the resolution on moratorium on executions endorsed by the United Nations 62nd General Assembly on 18 December 2007. 104 UN member states voted in favour of the ground-breaking resolution. 54 countries voted against, while 29 abstained. The resolution was supported by 87 governments from all regions of the world, as well as by NGOs including the World Coalition against the Death Penalty, the Community of Sant'Egidio, Hands Off Cain and Amnesty International. Read more about worldwide abolition.

USA: Governor Rick Perry must halt Medellin execution immediately, says Amnesty International

Mon, 4 Aug 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International USA (AIUSA) today urged Texas Governor Rick Perry to stay the execution of José Medellin to comply with a recent ruling from the International Court of Justice, or World Court. Medellin, a Mexican national who was never informed of his right to request consular assistance, is scheduled to be put to death tomorrow.

My experience testifying ...

Fri, 1 Aug 2008 11:33:00 EST

On Monday I had the opportunity to sit and experience the Commission on Capital Punishment recently convened by Maryland's General Assembly. Expert testimony was offered by six witnesses followed by ten members of the public who spoke as well. Much of the discussion was devoted to the presentation of statistics that prove there are racial, socio-economic, and jurisdictional disparities in...

Thomas Arthur's execution stayed

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

On July 31, the Alabama Supreme Court voted 5-4 to indefinitely delay the execution of Thomas Arthur, who is seeking a DNA test he claims could prove his innocence. Another man has confessed to the crime and the state of Alabama has admitted that it has lost the rape kit containing the DNA evidence in question. Thanks to all who took action on his behalf!

People's Republic of China: The Olympics countdown -- broken promises

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

With the Olympics less than two weeks away, it is time to assess progress made by the Chinese authorities to improve human rights in line with their own commitments made in 2001. This report provides a final summary and updates developments in these four key areas which are: the continuing use of the death penalty; abusive forms of administrative detention; the arbitrary detention, imprisonment, ill-treatment and harassment of human rights defenders, including journalists and lawyers; and the censorship of the internet.

Iran flies in face of global execution trend

Tue, 29 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International is appalled by the mass execution of 29 men in Tehran's Evin Prison on July 27, 2008. Their deaths brought the number of executions carried out so far this year to 187.

Chinese authorities' broken promises threaten Olympic legacy

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

A new Amnesty International report shows that the Chinese authorities have broken their promise to improve the country's human rights situation and betrayed the core values of the Olympics.

Kevin Young's death sentence commuted

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Good News! The Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board recommended clemency for Kevin Young and on Thursday, July 24th, Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry approved their recommendation and commuted Young's sentence. Young was sentenced to death in 1996 after exchanging gunfire and killing a man during a botched robbery attempt. Young and another man went to the steakhouse with the intention of robbing the restaurant, yet the shooting was not premeditated and did not merit a capital sentence. The Pardon and Parole Board has recommended clemency four times in the past five years, yet Henry has granted only one clemency request during that time. Thanks to all who took action on his behalf!

Liberia: President must veto death penalty bill

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Following the confirmation by the Liberian Senate of a bill re-proposing the death penalty for certain crimes, Amnesty International called on President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf to veto the bill.

Olympics promises for human rights - the China Debate

Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has launched a new website for people to have their say about the human rights situation in China in the countdown to the Beijing Olympics.

Laos: Official moratorium on the death penalty -- an opportunity for Laos

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International and the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) urge the Lao government to introduce an official moratorium on executions

Guantánamo military commission hearings resume

Wed, 9 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

Five Guantánamo detainees accused of involvement in the attacks of 11 September 2001 in the USA are due to appear in front of a military judge this week.

Love, hate and the law: decriminalizing homosexuality

Fri, 4 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

The paper explores the different legal approaches to criminalizing homosexuality, including less direct approaches that may not explicitly criminalize same-sex sexual conduct but instead seek to prevent the promotion of homosexuality, protect children, or respond to public health concerns. Decriminalization is not the whole answer, but it is a key step towards respecting, protecting and fulfilling the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, same-sex practicing and transgender people.

USA: Guy LeGrande found incompetent for execution due to mental illness

Wed, 2 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

On 27 June, 2008, a North Carolina judge found Guy Tobias LeGrande incompetent for execution due to his serious mental illness. The execution of a person who does not understand the reason for, or reality of his punishment, is unconstitutional in the USA. He has been on death row for 12 years. Amnesty International urges the North Carolina authorities to commute his death sentence and to ensure that he receives all necessary and appropriate treatment for his serious mental illness.

USA: Capital charges sworn against another Guantánamo detainee tortured in secret CIA custody

Wed, 2 Jul 2008 00:00:00 EST

On 30 June 2008, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions called on the US government to discontinue all military commission proceedings currently underway against whom the US authorities are to seek the death penalty. On the same day the US Department of Defense announced that capital charges had been sworn against Abd al-Rahim al-Nashiri for trial by military commission. Any trials should be conducted before the appropriate, regularly-constituted criminal courts in the USA, with the full fair trial protections required by international human rights law.

Kurdish boy executed in Iran

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

A Kurdish boy, believed to be 16 or 17 years old at the time of execution, was executed in Iran on Tuesday.

Percy Walton's Sentence Commuted

Mon, 9 Jun 2008 00:00:00 EST

Good News! Just one day before he was scheduled to become the 100th execution in Virginia, Governor Timothy M. Kaine commuted the sentence of Percy Walton, a man with a history of serious mental illness, to life in prison. Thank you to all who took action on his behalf.

Oral Statement by Amnesty International Item 7 (k): Report of the Working Group on the Death Penalty

Wed, 7 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

ITEM 7 (k): Report of the Working Group on the Death Penalty

India: The Death Penalty in India

Fri, 2 May 2008 00:00:00 EST

A lethal lottery: A study of Supreme Court judgments in death penalty cases 1950-2006 (summary report)

Finality over Fairness: the case of Troy Davis

Thu, 1 May 2008 12:35:27 EST

Troy Davis was sentenced to death for the murder of Police Officer Mark Allen McPhail; a murder he maintains he did not commit. There was no physical evidence against him and the weapon used in the crime was never found. Since the trial most of the witnesses have recanted their testimony, many alleging they were pressured or coerced by police.

Guatemala: Congreso debe rechazar la pena de muerte

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

La Comisión de Gobernación del Congreso debe rechazar la pena de muerte, dijo hoy Amnistía Internacional en una carta enviada a ese órgano.

India: Time to end the lethal lottery of India's death penalty system

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

(New Delhi): The first major study into India’s legal judgements on death penalty cases has revealed that the system is riddled with fatal flaws and that the only remedy is to abolish the death penalty completely, said the study authors in New Delhi today.

Secret video shows horror of Saudi beheading

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Secretly filmed footage of a man being beheaded in Saudi Arabia has been received by Amnesty International.

Saudi Arabia: Amnesty International Obtains Secret Video Showing Horror of Beheading in Saudi Arabia

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has received secretly filmed grisly footage of a man being beheaded in Saudi Arabia. The organization strongly condemns the execution and calls for the Saudi Arabian government to adhere to the U.N. moratorium on executions around the world.

Iraq executions follow apparently unfair trials

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Twenty-eight people have been executed in Iraq this week following what appear to have been hasty and unfair trials.

US Supreme Court rules lethal injections constitutional

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

The US Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday that the state of Kentucky's lethal injection procedures are constitutional.

USA: Supreme Court's Lethal Injection Ruling Has Limited Long-Term Impact

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Larry Cox, executive director for Amnesty International USA,statement regarding the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Baze v. Rees, which challenged the constitutionality of Kentucky's lethal injection protocols

Amnesty International calls on governments to lift the veil of secrecy around executions

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

In a new report published today, Amnesty International revealed that at least 1,200 people were executed in 2007 and expressed deep concern that many more were killed by the state, in secret, in countries including China, Mongolia and Viet Nam.

Death sentences and executions in 2007

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

This document details the countries and territories that carried out executions, and the countries and territories that imposed death sentences, in 2007. During 2007, at least 1,252 people were executed in 24 countries. At least 3,347 people were sentenced to death in 51 countries. These were only minimum figures; the true figures were certainly higher. In 2007, 88 per cent of all known executions took place in five countries: China, Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and the USA.

The death penalty worldwide developments in 2007

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

In 2007 the world continued to move closer to the universal abolition of the capital punishment. A historical landmark is the resolution on a moratorium on executions endorsed by the United Nations. By the end of the 2007, 91 countries have abolished the death penalty for all crimes. The death penalty has now been abolished in law or practice by 135 countries. Other subjects covered in this report include commutations, judicial reviews, use against child offenders; and extradition.

World: 2007 Death Penalty statistics, notes and case studies

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

2007 Death Penalty stats in comparison with 2006

Amnesty International calls on governments to lift the veil of secrecy around executions

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Secrecy surrounds death penalty

Tue, 15 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

At least 1,200 people were executed in 2007 and many more were killed by the state, in secret, in countries including China, Mongolia and Viet Nam.

Nigeria: Detention during the pleasure of the governor - NBA, Nigerian NGOs and Amnesty International urge the immediate release of Patrick Okoroafor

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

NBA, Nigerian NGOs and Amnesty International urge the immediate release of Patrick Okoroafor

Central Asia: Summary of Human Rights Concerns: March 2007 -- March 2008

Wed, 9 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International remains concerned that despite professed efforts by the governments in Central Asia to fulfil their human rights obligations and actual efforts by some states to remedy the worst abuses, grave human rights violations routinely continue to be committed with virtual impunity. This summary highlights some of the organization's most pressing human rights concerns in the various republics in Central Asia.

USA: Another CIA detainee facing death penalty trial by military commission

Wed, 2 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

On March 31, 2008, the Pentagon announced that charges had been sworn against Ahmed Khalfan Ghailani, a Tanzanian national held in US military detention in Guantánamo since September 2006. He now faces the prospect of a military commission trial, the procedures of which do not meet international fair trial standards, and at which the government intends to seek the death penalty.

China: Olympics countdown -- Time running out for improvement in human rights

Tue, 1 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International called on the Chinese authorities to immediately end repressive measures against Chinese human rights defenders in Beijing and other parts of China, as well as against protesters in Tibet and surrounding regions, as it launched its report

Death Penalty News: December 2007

Tue, 1 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

1) UN votes for global moratorium on the death penalty; 2) Nigeria misleads world about executions; 3) Iran executes yet another child offender; 4) Japan executes three prisoners; 5) Guatemala commutes death sentence; 6) USA New Jersey abolishes death penalty; 7) USA Innocence; 8) USA expansion of death penalty; 9) International events: World Day and Cities for Life; 10) News in brief

List of abolitionist and retentionist countries (1 January 2008)

Tue, 1 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

More than half the countries in the world have now abolished the death penalty in law or practice. This document includes lists of countries in the four categories: abolitionist for all crimes, abolitionist for ordinary crimes only, abolitionist in practice and retentionist. There is also a list of of countries which have abolished the death penalty since 1976.

Ratifications of international treaties to abolish the death penalty (1 January 2008)

Tue, 1 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

The community of nations has adopted four international treaties providing for the abolition of the death penalty. One is of worldwide scope; the other three are regional. This document contains short descriptions of the four treaties and current lists of states parties and countries which have signed but not ratified the treaties.

What human rights legacy for the Beijing Olympics?

Tue, 1 Apr 2008 00:00:00 EST

Liu Jingmin, Vice-President of the Beijing Olympic Bid Committee, said In 2001 that allowing Beijing to host the Games would “help the development of human rights."

USA: Government must ensure meaningful judicial review of Mexican death row cases

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

On 25 March 2008, in a case involving the USAs obligation to comply with judgments of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the US Supreme Court ruled in favour of the State of Texas and against a Mexican national on death row there. The Supreme Court has effectively passed the buck to the other branches of government to act to ensure that the USA meets its international obligations. Amnesty International urges them to do so.

Amnesty International Decries Ruling in Troy Davis Case

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International USA (AIUSA) decried today's Georgia Supreme Court decision to deny a new trial for Troy Anthony Davis, who has been on death row for more than 16 years despite significant concerns regarding his innocence. The human rights organization, which has collected more than 60,000 petition signatures while campaigning for Davis, said the ruling demonstrates a blatant disregard for justice, and asserted that the Georgia Board of Pardons and Paroles must grant clemency in his case.

Carnage and despair in Iraq

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

Five years after the US-led invasion of Iraq, the country is still in disarray.

Three Australians spared death penalty in Bali

Thu, 6 Mar 2008 00:00:00 EST

Three members of the so-called Bali Nine have had their death sentences reduced to life imprisonment following a judicial review by the Supreme Court.

China urged to take steps to end death penalty

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST

Anti-death penalty campaigners have urged Chinese legislators to take "concrete steps" towards abolishing the death penalty.

Tell China to abolish the Death Penalty for the New Year

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 11:00:09 EST

Based on public reports, Amnesty International estimates that at least 1,010 people were executed and 2,790 sentenced to death in 2006 in China. The death penalty violates the Olympic ideal of preserving human dignity. Send a New Year greeting to Prime Minister Wen Jiabao before the end of January to urge him to respect the Olympic ideal, and to take positive steps towards abolishing the death penalty in China.

New Cuban leadership can improve human rights

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International has called on the new Cuban government to allow UN human rights bodies and independent human rights organizations to visit the country.

US seeks death penalty for Guantánamo detainees

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST

The US government is seeking the death penalty against six “high-value” detainees at Guantánamo Bay charged on Monday.

USA: Nebraska Supreme Court Ruling 'A Sign of the Times,' Says Amnesty International

Fri, 8 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International USA welcomes the Nebraska Supreme Court decision to bar the electric chair. Nebraska was the last holdout that still allowed this outmoded method of execution, and the Supreme Court ruling is a sign of the times.

Japan: Amnesty International Condemns New Round of "Streamlined" Executions in Japan

Fri, 1 Feb 2008 00:00:00 EST

Amnesty International strongly condemns the hanging in Japan today of three men: Keishi Nago (age 37), Masahiko Matsubara (age 63), and Takashi Mochida (age 65).

Campaigning to end stoning in Iran

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 EST

Eleven people in Iran - nine of them women - are waiting to be stoned to death on charges of adultery. Many have been sentenced after grossly unfair trials.

Uzbekistan abolishes the death penalty

Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 EST

The trend towards total abolition of the death penalty has continued with Uzbekistan becoming the latest country to put an end to executions.

US state abolishes death penalty

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 00:00:00 EST

The US state of New Jersey has joined the global trend towards the abolition of the death penalty.

Thank New Jersey Leaders For Supporting Abolition

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 10:10:06 EST

Please write a brief note to Governor Jon Corzine, Senate President Richard J. Codey and Assembly Speaker Joseph Roberts to thank them for their leadership on this important issue.

The Wire, December 2007. Vol. 37, No. 11

Sat, 1 Dec 2007 00:00:00 EST

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

Tue, 17 Jul 2007 00:00:00 EST

Help Prevent the Execution of a Juvenile in Saudi Arabia

Wed, 11 Jul 2007 10:56:54 EST

Domestic worker Rizana Nafeek was sentenced to death in Saudi Arabis for a murder committed while she was just 17 years old. Saudi Arabia is a state party to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which expressly prohibits the execution of offenders for crimes committed when they were under 18 years old. Rizana Nafeek is believed to have appealed against her sentence, but if her appeal is unsuccessful she could be executed within days.

Vital UN human rights work under threat

Wed, 9 May 2007 00:00:00 EST

The UN Human Rights Council's Special Procedures are under threat. These are independent human rights experts, who examine issues globally, or focus on specific places, or on particular groups such as human rights defenders or migrants. They are currently under review, and their independence, expertise and ability to respond quickly are at risk. Amnesty International and 16 other non-governmental organizations have launched a global petition calling on UN member states to maintain and strengthen the system of Special Procedures. Their work is critical for the safety and lives of individuals all over the world.

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.

The Wire, November 2006. Vol. 36, No.10.

Wed, 1 Nov 2006 00:00:00 EST

1) Children maimed by Israeli cluster bombs in Lebanon 2) Pakistan sells 'terror suspects' to USA 3) Sudan: 'If you leave the camp, we will kill you' 4) Arbitrary deadlines hamper tribunals 5) Women in Mexico denied Justice 6)Worldwide appeals: Peru: Activist threatened and intimidated; Morocco/Western Sahara: Prison sentence for human rights defender; Belarus: Election monitors imprisoned 7) Updates: Saudi Arabia; Iran; USA; Peru; Greece; Ending impunity for police in Angola 8) Canadian inquiry vindicates case of Guantánamo detainee 9) Ambassador of conscience award 10) Control Arms 11) 25 years of renouncing religious intolerance 12) Activist murdered in Russian Federation 13) Recent Publication

UN Human Rights Council Second session. Compilation of statements by Amnesty International, including joint statements

Wed, 1 Nov 2006 00:00:00 EST

The second session of the Human Rights Council, took place from 18 September to 6 October, but was then adjourned until 27 November 2006. It will be followed by the third session immediately thereafter. As part of the unfinished business from the 62nd session of the Commission, the Council considered and discussed, in unprecedented depth, the Special Procedures' reports. This document is a compilation of AI's delivered statements, undelivered contributions and two interventions which were not delivered due to technical reasons.

The Wire, October 2006. Vol. 36, No.9.

Sun, 1 Oct 2006 00:00:00 EST

1) Government maligns Colombian activists 2) Will China honour its Olympic promises? 3) 3 October Focus on Africa - World Habitat Day 4) Thousands made homeless in Nigeria 5) Oil fuels evictions in Equatorial Guinea 6) No justice for victims of forced evictions in Zimbabwe 7) Worldwide appeals: United Arab Emirates: Human rights activists harassed; China: Prisoner of conscience sentenced; United Kingdom: Risk of torture if returned to Algeria; Violence flares in Sudan; Cluster bomb carnage in Lebanon; USA defends secret detention 8) Update: Guantánamo detainee released; Turkmenistan; Viet Nam; Australia scraps migration bill 9) 10 October The World Day against the Death Penalty 10) Activists say no to death penalty 11) Iran continues to execute children