Celebrating Six Months of Victories for Human Rights

Saving Lives, Changing Laws, and Protecting Human Rights: Amnesty International’s Victories

Changing Legislation

USA

Amnesty International USA has successfully contributed to efforts to end gun violence by partnering with advocates in Illinois and Michigan to pass several gun safety laws. Thanks to their work, Illinois has become the ninth state to ban assault weapons, and Michigan now requires universal background checks for all firearm purchases.

Australia

In response to campaigning by activists and organizations, including Amnesty International, the Australian Capital Territory has tabled legislation to raise the age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 12 years old, with plans to raise it to 14 by July 2025. However, concerns remain about the treatment of children accused of “series offenses” who may still face invasive investigations and imprisonment.

EU

Amnesty International has played a significant role in the adoption of a major treaty by EU states, The Ljubljana-The Hague Convention. This treaty expands states’ jurisdiction over crimes such as genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, torture, and enforced disappearance. Amnesty’s contributions to this treaty over the past decade have helped secure provisions for victims’ rights, non-refoulement, and the refusal of extradition based on sexual orientation.

Climate Change

Amnesty International has been active in advocating for climate justice. In collaboration with student activists from the Pacific, Amnesty played a role in Australia co-sponsoring Vanuatu’s initiative to take climate change to the International Court of Justice. This move will result in a legal opinion on governments’ obligations to protect human rights against the effects of climate change.

Death Penalty

In Malaysia, Amnesty International’s efforts have contributed to the abolition of the death penalty. The Abolition of Mandatory Death Penalty Act and the Revision of Sentence of Death and Imprisonment for Natural Life Act have been published in Malaysia’s Federal Gazette, marking a significant step toward total abolition in the country.

LGBTI Rights

Amnesty International’s advocacy and campaigning have had a positive impact on LGBTI rights across several countries. In Iran, activist Zahra Sedighi-Hamadani, who was sentenced to death for supporting LGBTI rights, was released after Amnesty supporters called for her release. Taiwan has made significant advancements by allowing same-sex marriages and permitting joint adoption for married same-sex couples. In Australia, new laws have removed barriers to updating gender identity documents.

Technology

Amnesty International’s Security Lab exposed a hacking campaign by a spyware company targeting Google’s Android operating system and iPhones. This information was shared with Google, Apple, and other affected vendors, resulting in security updates that protect billions of users. Additionally, Amnesty’s advocacy led to restrictions on the U.S. government’s use of commercial spyware technology, as well as joint action by 11 governments to counter the misuse of commercial spyware.

Finding Freedom

Amnesty International has played a crucial role in securing the release of individuals who have suffered from arbitrary detention and unjust imprisonment. Former detainees from Guantanamo Bay, including Majid Khan, Ahmed Rahim Rabbani, Abdul Rahim Rabbani, Ghassan al-Sharbi, and Said Bakush, were released after enduring years of imprisonment. Mansoor Adayfi, a former detainee, was able to travel abroad for the first time in 21 years with Amnesty’s help. In Iran, Arshia Takdastan, Mehdi Mohammadifard, and Javad Rouhi had their death sentences overturned following Amnesty’s urgent action.

Holding Authorities to Account

Amnesty International has been at the forefront of efforts to hold authorities accountable for their actions. In Chile, an investigation into human rights violations against Moisés Órdenes was reopened after Amnesty’s calls. FIFA’s decision not to accept sponsorship from Visit Saudi for the Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand was influenced by Amnesty’s advocacy. Amnesty’s work also contributed to investigations into war crimes and crimes against humanity in countries such as Myanmar, Syria, and Ukraine.

Refugee and Migrant Rights

Amnesty International has advocated for the rights of refugees and migrants in various countries. In Peru, the cancellation of unjust fines for Venezuelan migrants was achieved through lobbying and campaigning. In Australia, 19,000 people who have been living in limbo for years will now have the opportunity to become permanent residents and reunite with their families. Amnesty’s pressure led to four Canadian provinces ending their contracts with the government to detain migrants in provincial jails.

Women’s Rights

Amnesty International has achieved significant victories in the fight for women’s rights. In Switzerland, the definition of rape was expanded to recognize that all sex without consent constitutes rape. In Iran, activists Yasaman Aryani and Monireh Arabshahi were released after being imprisoned for speaking out against discriminatory forced veiling laws. Amnesty’s campaigns have also led to the release of women detained due to inability to pay hospital fees in Benin, as well as the reopening of investigations into human rights violations against Moisés Órdenes in Chile.

Editorial

Amnesty International’s victories in saving lives, changing laws, and protecting human rights over the past year are a testament to the organization’s unwavering dedication to justice and freedom. By working alongside activists, organizations, and individuals, Amnesty has been able to make a tangible impact on a wide range of issues, from gun violence and climate change to LGBTI rights and the death penalty.

These victories demonstrate the power of collective action and the effectiveness of grassroots advocacy. Amnesty’s campaigns have succeeded in bringing about legislative change, raising awareness, and holding authorities accountable for their actions. Whether it is through urgent actions, lobbying, or sharing evidence, Amnesty International has shown that every individual has the capacity to make a difference.

However, despite these victories, the fight for human rights is far from over. Amnesty must continue to address ongoing challenges and work towards lasting change. The cases highlighted in this report serve as reminders of the ongoing human rights abuses and injustices that persist around the world.

Advice

In light of Amnesty International’s victories, it is crucial for individuals to recognize their own power and to join the fight for human rights. There are several ways individuals can contribute to the cause:

1. Educate Yourself: Stay informed about human rights issues and the work of Amnesty International. Knowledge is the first step towards effecting change.

2. Take Action: Sign petitions, participate in campaigns, and join local Amnesty International chapters to take part in collective action. Your voice and support can make a difference.

3. Engage with Authorities: Write to government officials, policymakers, and local representatives to express your concern about human rights abuses and advocate for changes in legislation and policies.

4. Amplify Marginalized Voices: Share stories, amplify the voices of marginalized communities, and raise awareness about human rights issues through your social media platforms, personal networks, and local communities.

5. Support Amnesty International: Donate to Amnesty International to support their ongoing efforts to protect and promote human rights. Your contribution can go a long way in helping to create a more just and equitable world.

By taking these actions, individuals can contribute to the collective efforts of organizations like Amnesty International and work towards a future where human rights are respected, protected, and upheld for all. As the victories highlighted in this report show, change is possible, and together, we can make a difference.

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