The 2023 Legacy Act, passed by the last UK government, is blocking victims in the UK from getting truth, justice and accountability for murder and other serious crimes committed during the Northern Ireland conflict. The law is deeply damaging and causing untold distress to victims.
The Act was passed by the former Conservative government despite being opposed by all Northern Ireland political parties, victims, victims’ groups, human rights organisations and with significant concerns raised by individuals and bodies at the UN and Council of Europe.
In October 2025, the Labour government introduced the Troubles bill that could, with necessary changes and political will, deliver for victims seeking truth and accountability for their loved ones. The bill is a step forward, but change is needed to ensure victims’ rights are respected, protected and finally vindicated.
What were "the Troubles"?
The Troubles was a conflict that engulfed communities in Northern Ireland and beyond. It took place between the 1960s and 1990s. The conflict claimed the lives of over 3,600 people and injured 40,000. In most cases, no one has ever been held responsible.
After decades of conflict, the 1998 Belfast/Good Friday Agreement led to a peace settlement which has lasted to this day.
What is happening with this campaign?
Murder is murder, whether it happened 5, 15 or 50 years ago, in Northern Ireland or anywhere else. Torture is a crime with absolute prohibition under international law.
Victims and Amnesty International are campaigning for the 2023 Legacy Act to be scrapped. Key parts of this Act have been found to be unlawful by the courts in Belfast. Victims have told Amnesty that this Act is a betrayal of their rights and loved ones. We are engaged in litigation, advocacy and campaign for this law to be overturned and replaced with a victim-centred law and processes.
Amnesty International UK is working to ensure the newly proposed #TroublesBill is fit for purpose and finally vindicates victims’ rights.
Victims voices matter
Martha Campbell
Martha Campbell was 13 when she was killed on her way to visit a friend on 14 May 1972.
Over 50 years later, Martha’s family is still seeking answers about what happened that day.
Betty and Tony were one of the families finally granted an inquest into Martha’s death, when the 2023 Legacy Act stopped it in its tracks.
Everyone has a right to know what happened to their loved ones – no matter where, when or how.
Majella O'Hare
Amnesty International UK is also supporting the brother of a 12-year-old girl, Majella O'Hare, who was shot in the back by a soldier in 1976. The loss had a devastating impact on her family and the grossly inadequate investigation at the time only added to the trauma. Despite a letter of apology from the Ministry of Defence in 2011, no independent investigation has ever taken place, and no one has been held accountable for Majella's killing.
Amnesty International UK is supporting Michael O'Hare in calling for an independent investigation. In July 2020 a letter was sent to the Legacy Investigation Branch of the PSNI requesting the Chief Constable ensure a prompt and independent investigation into her death.