Who We Are

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Amnesty International is a movement of 10 million people which mobilises the humanity in everyone and campaigns for change so we can all enjoy our human rights.

Our vision is of a world where those in power keep their promises, respect international law and are held to account.

We are independent of any government, political ideology, economic interest or religion. We are funded by our members and supporters.

We believe that acting in solidarity and compassion with people everywhere can change our societies for the better.

In Ireland, our 20,000 members and supporters campaign on issues like reproductive rights, ending torture and protecting migrant & refugee rights, among others.

What does Amnesty International do?

  • We investigate and expose the facts, whenever and wherever human rights abuses happen.
  • We lobby governments and other powerful groups to make sure they respect international law.
  • We mobilise millions of supporters around the world to campaign for change and to stand in defence of human rights activists
  • We support people to claim their rights through education and training.

Our History

In 1961, British lawyer Peter Benenson was outraged when two Portuguese students were jailed just for raising a toast to freedom. He wrote an article in The Observer and launched a campaign that provoked an unprecedented response. Reprinted in newspapers across the world, his call to action sparked the idea that people everywhere can unite in solidarity for justice and freedom.

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Only when the last prisoner of conscience has been freed, when the last torture chamber has been closed, when the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a reality for the world’s people, will our work be done.

Peter Benenson, Amnesty International founder

Amnesty Evolves

Over the years, human rights have moved from the fringes to centre stage in world affairs. Amnesty has grown from seeking the release of political prisoners to upholding the whole spectrum of human rights. Our work protects and empowers people – from abolishing the death penalty to protecting sexual and reproductive rights, from combating discrimination to defending refugees and migrants’ rights. We speak out for anyone whose freedom and dignity are under threat. After more than 50 years of groundbreaking achievements, Amnesty has been through a major transformation, adapting to dramatic changes in the world.

Imagine what we can now achieve standing side by side with activists in every corner of the globe. How many more prison doors will open? How many more torturers will be brought to justice? How many more people will realise their rights and live in dignity?

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