The Story That Began With a Word

On this day in 1961, British lawyer Peter Benenson published an article in the London newspaper “The Observer” titled “The Forgotten Prisoners”. What Benenson did not know was that these words would spark the largest human rights movement in the world.

The story began when Benenson learned about two Portuguese students who were imprisoned for simply raising a toast to freedom in a restaurant in Lisbon. From here, the “Appeal for Amnesty 1961” campaign was launched, which two years later became Amnesty International (Amnesty International).

What is Amnesty International?

A non-governmental, neutral and independent organization, its mission is to defend human rights around the world. Its basic principle: to work towards a world where every human being enjoys all the rights listed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Awards and Achievements

  • 🏆 Nobel Peace Prize in 1977
  • 🏆 United Nations Prize in the Field of Human Rights in 1978
  • 📄 Has over 10 million members and supporters worldwide
  • 🌍 Works in over 150 countries
  • 📢 Raises cases of prisoners of conscience and political detainees

Saudi Arabia and Amnesty International

In recent years, the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Amnesty International has seen significant development. Despite criticism, the organization has made visits to the Kingdom and met with Saudi officials, and documented reforms in the areas of women’s rights and the promotion of freedoms. In return, the organization has called for continued judicial and legal reforms within the framework of Vision 2030.

On This Day, May 28

May 28 is not only the founding day of Amnesty International, but also includes:

  • 1918 — Azerbaijan declares its independence
  • 1937 — Volkswagen is founded
  • 1961 — Amnesty International is founded
  • 1964 — The Palestine Liberation Organization is founded
  • 2008 — Nepal becomes a republic

Amnesty International is a reminder that one voice can change the world. The story of this organization proves that humanity triumphs when we refuse to remain silent in the face of injustice.