50 years ago, Peter Benensen was outraged when he heard of two Portuguese students imprisoned for raising their wine glasses in a toast to freedom. He was moved to act, and put pen to paper to voice his anger. One man spoke out against the obvious injustice these two students were facing, and the world’s foremost human rights organization was born.
In the 50 years since the Amnesty International candle first shone a light on the world’s hellholes, there has been a human rights revolution - a massive cultural, social and political shift that has transformed the call for justice, freedom and dignity into a truly global demand.
In 50 years, we have achieved extraordinary things together. From one man, we have become an organization of more than 3 million members worldwide, a powerful and successful voice defying those who violate human rights and demonstrating that ordinary people can unite in solidarity to create hope for a better world. Through this united voice, we have seen torturers brought to justice, the release of prisoners of conscience, executions stayed, laws established, policies changed, governments reformed, lives changed and justice served. A world made better.
In this milestone year, we celebrate these remarkable achievements, each a shining light against injustice and an example of what is possible when people work together for human rights. Let’s use these successes to energize us for the considerable challenges that still face us - in this, our 50th year, we will focus on six key campaigns where “people power” can tip the scales against injustice. This website will enable you to be part of this people’s movement for change.
And as we will celebrate together, please, take a moment, raise your glass and give a toast to freedom.
