Amnesty International is a worldwide movement of ordinary people who campaign for human rights. Our purpose is to protect individuals wherever justice, fairness, freedom and truth are denied.

Around the world, people are imprisoned, tortured, disappeared and executed simply because of who they are, or what they believe in. Amnesty members take practical, effective action to stop these abuses. Our research, our campaigning, our efforts to change laws and policies, our appeals and letters, are ultimately aimed at affecting the fate of real women, men and children. Every year, many people whose cases Amnesty International has taken up, their lawyers, and their families, thank us for our efforts on their behalf.

Amnesty International is politically and financially independent of any government, political ideology, economic interest or religion. We only accept funds if they are free to be used without compromising our aims and principles. Contributions from individuals make up 94% of our income – we are almost completely reliant on the generosity of donors to achieve our aims. With your help, we can bring about the real change that is needed in the lives of people worldwide.  

 

 

An Amnesty supporter wears a blindfold with 'Don't turn a blind eye to torture' written on it.Ray Winstone holds a 'Stop Violence Against Women' Amnesty placard. Photograph © Thomas Birkett