January
How has Norway improved prison conditions for those with mental health problems?
- Isolation reduction and more resources allocated
Why were Russian rock band Bi-2 members detained in Thailand?
- Concerns over persecution in Russia for anti-war stance
What led to the withdrawal of a bill in Belgium undermining the right to protest?
- Pressure from trade unions and civil society
February
How did the Walloon government respond to calls from civil society?
- Suspension of arms export licenses to Israel
Why was journalist Guhdar Zebari released in Iraq?
- Campaigning efforts by Amnesty International
What was significant about the release of human rights defender Vanessa Mendoza Cortes in Andorra?
- Acquittal after speaking out against abortion ban
Global
What new treaty was signed in The Hague to address human rights violations?
- Ljubljana-Hague Convention for justice to victims of atrocities
How has Amnesty International been supporting human rights defenders like Youba Siby?
- Legal assistance and transitional support
March
What historic decisions were made in Japan regarding same-sex marriage?
- Recognition of unconstitutionality of ban
How did European countries respond to funding suspension for Palestinians?
- Resumed funding to UNRWA
What role did Amnesty International play in the release of human rights defender Daouda Diallo in Burkina Faso?
- Issuing urgent appeals
April
What actions were taken against Myanmar in terms of human rights violations?
- Resolution on refraining from fuel exports
How did Argentina address online gender-based harassment against Marina Abiuso?
- Sentencing influencer to community service
Why were human rights activists like Shoma Sen granted bail in India?
- Long-standing campaign by Amnesty International
May
How was human rights lawyer Eren Keskin acquitted in Turkey?
- Amnesty International’s calls for justice
What significant decision was made by the UN Open-ended Working Group on Ageing?
- Adoption of measures to protect older people’s rights
June
Why were the defendants in the “Kempir-Abad case” acquitted in Kyrgyzstan?
- Politically motivated charges and inconsistencies
What landmarks were achieved in international efforts regarding human rights violations in Russia towards Ukraine?
- Arrest warrants against top Russian military officials
How did Thailand make history regarding marriage equality for LGBTI couples?
- Passage of marriage equality bill
Global
How was an arrest warrant against Bashar al-Assad upheld by the Paris Court of Appeal?
- Responsibility for chemical weapons use in Syria
What significant ban was enacted in Sierra Leone to protect girls?
- Prohibition of child marriage bill
Summary:
Amnesty International has contributed to significant human rights wins globally during the first half of the year, from improved prison conditions in Norway to landmark decisions in Japan, all shaping a brighter future for human rights.
Source: www.amnesty.org