Amnesty International today designated three prominent human rights defenders from Hong Kong and mainland China as prisoners of conscience. Who are the human rights defenders recognized by Amnesty International? Chow Hang-tung Ding Jiaxi Jimmy Lai The human rights lawyers Chow Hang-tung and Ding Jiaxi, along with the free media advocate Jimmy Lai, are currently imprisoned … Read more
Journalist Mech Dara Faces Charges Recent events have seen Cambodian journalist Mech Dara facing charges of incitement after being arrested by military police. Amnesty International has spoken out against these actions, condemning the government’s approach to repressing journalists. What Charges Have Been Made? The charges against Mech Dara relate to incitement, showcasing the government’s crackdown … Read more
Responding to reports of ongoing arbitrary detentions in Ethiopia’s Amhara region What is the current situation in the Amhara region? Evidence of government’s total disregard for rule of law No arrest or search warrants obtained before detaining hundreds Detained civilians not brought before court within 48 hours Ethiopian authorities must act immediately to end arbitrary … Read more
Challenges Faced by Venezuelan Refugees in Aruba Aruba lacks specific asylum legislation, leaving Venezuelan refugees vulnerable to detention and deportation. The post-electoral crisis in Venezuela underscores the need for protective asylum laws on the island. Amnesty International’s Report Amnesty International highlights gaps in refugee protection for Venezuelans in Aruba. The lack of specific legislation poses … Read more
What Defines a Crime Against Humanity? Crimes against humanity involve specific crimes committed as part of widespread attacks against civilians, shocking the conscience of humanity itself. Murder Torture Enslavement Rape Persecution Enforced disappearance Apartheid Learn about recent incidents in Afghanistan, Ethiopia, and Iran that could be considered crimes against humanity. Legal Mechanisms to Combat Crimes … Read more
Amnesty International urges Slovenia and Montenegro to prevent the Portuguese-flagged MV Kathrin from unloading explosives bound for Israel, citing concerns about potential war crimes in Gaza. What do we know about the MV Kathrin? Namibia and Portugal confirm explosives onboard Refusal by Namibian authorities Statements from Slovenia and Portugal Why should the cargo not reach … Read more
What is DRC President Felix Tshisekedi being called to account for? Issuing promises to protect human rights in 2019 Responding inadequately to armed conflict and violence in the DRC Ignoring ongoing humanitarian crises and failing to uphold human rights What are the International’s requirements for the DRC government? Increasing pressure to address human rights abuses … Read more
Accountability Failures: The Aftermath of Tishreen Protests What led to lethal crackdown against the Tishreen protests in Iraq? 2019 Tishreen protests demanded economic reforms and end to corruption Anti-riot police, counterterrorism forces, PMU used excessive force What has the Iraqi government done to ensure justice? 2,700 criminal investigations, 10 arrest warrants, 7 convictions Lack of … Read more
Executed for supporting “anti-government protests” On 17 August 2024, Saudi authorities executed Abdulmajeed al-Nimr, a retired traffic police officer, under terrorism-related charges linked to Al-Qaeda. However, his court documents highlight his real charges connected to his alleged involvement in “anti-government” protests in Saudi Arabia’s Shi’a majority Eastern Province. Saudi Arabia’s authorities are relentlessly executing people, … Read more
Why is defending the right to abortion becoming more dangerous? Fernanda Doz Costa, Director of Gender, Racial Justice, Refugees and Migrants Rights Program at Amnesty International, sheds light on the increasing risks faced by those who provide reproductive care, including abortions. Hate emails, stigmatization, death threats, and more plague healthcare professionals worldwide. The backlash against … Read more