History

Amnesty International started right here in the UK. English lawyer Peter Benenson learnt that two Portuguese students had been sentenced to seven years in prison for allegedly drinking “a toast to liberty.” In response Benenson mobilised people from around the world by publishing an appeal on behalf of “The Forgotten Prisoners” that was reprinted around the world.

From the outset we have been driven by one core mission: to inspire people around the world to stand up for human rights, so that everyone can live freely and with dignity, no matter who or where they are.

When we come together to defend human rights, the world listens. We declared 1977 “Prisoners of Conscience Year” and mobilised our global supporter base to put pressure on governments to abolish torture and the death penalty.

Our efforts were recognised: Amnesty International was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for our “defence of human dignity against torture”.

When human rights are abused, we make sure the perpetrators don’t get away with it.

That’s why Amnesty campaigned for the creation of the International Criminal Court: to make sure that even in the darkest moments, a path to justice is possible.

As the world’s first permanent, international judicial body, the International Criminal Court ensures that human rights abuses don’t go unpunished, regardless of which government or group is responsible.

It ensures that victims of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes are given justice and reparations.

In the face of increasing poverty and inequality in the UK too many people’s basic human rights are being eroded. People deserve better.

If we want to live in a society where everyone lives with dignity, compassion and respect, things need to change.

That’s why Amnesty worked with the new Attorney General to make sure new government policy puts human rights first.

Under the new rules, Whitehall lawyers must advise ministers on whether proposed policies are lawful and in line with the UK’s human rights obligations.