Amnesty International is a global movement of more than 10 million people in over 150 countries and territories who campaign to end abuses of human rights. The organization was founded in London in July 1961 by English barrister Peter Benenson, who had previously been a founding member of the UK law reform organization JUSTICE. Amnesty International is an international non-governmental organization focused on human rights, with its headquarters in the United Kingdom. The organization is independent of all governments and is neutral in its relation to political groups, ideologies, and religious dividing lines.
Amnesty International works for the release of women and men who have been arrested for their convictions, the color of their skin, their ethnic origin, or their faith – provided that they have not themselves used force or exhorted others to resort to violence. The organization campaigns for a world where human rights are enjoyed by all, and protects people’s human rights from the death penalty to free speech. Amnesty International monitors and advocates for human rights for everyone in the United States and abroad. The organization has more than ten million members and supporters around the world. People can get involved with Amnesty International by writing a letter, volunteering, taking action, donating, and speaking out against injustice worldwide.
