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Preface HOW TO USE THIS HANDBOOK

Chapter I A CONSPIRACY OF HOPE

Chapter 2 AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL TODAY

Chapter 3 POLITICAL IMPRISONMENT, TORTURE AND EXECUTIONS The mandate Prisoners of conscience Political trials Torture The death penalty Political killings by governments "Disappearances" Prison conditions Refugees

Chapter 4 HOW AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL WORKS Research (g) Amnesty International Publications 1983 Case work All rights reserved. Campaigns First edition: "Handbook for Groups", 1962 Campaign for the Abolition of Torture Second edition: "How to help prisoners of conscience: a handbook for Program for the Abolition of the Death Penalty groups", 1967 Urgent Actions Third edition: "Handbook for Groups", March 1971 Campaign for Prisoners of the Month Fourth edition: "Handbook for Groups", March 1973 Prisoners of Conscience Week Fifth edition: March 1977 Country campaigns and special actions Sixth edition: February 1983 Regional Action Networks ISBN: 0 900058 48 X Missions Original language: English Relief Al Index: ORG 02/01/83 Publicity and Publications Published by Amnesty International Publications Representations to National Governments The United Nations and International Organizations Target Sector Work Copies of Amnesty International Publications can be obtained from the Human Rights Education offices of the sections of Amnesty International. Office addresses and further information may be obtained from the International Secretariat, 10 Chapter 5 AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL THROUGHOUT THE Southampton Street, London WC2E 71-1F, United Kingdom. Address after WORLD September 1983: Amnesty International, International Secretariat, 1 Easton Members and subscribers Street, London WC I, United Kingdom. Local Al Groups Sections The International Council International Executive Committee Cover design by Ian Franklin. Printed in Great Britain by Russell Press Ltd, International Committees Gamble Street, Nottingham, England. International Secretariat

Chapter 6 FUND-RA1SING AND FINANCES

Chapter 7 ONE MOVEMENT, ONE VOICE International team work Speaking to the news media Publications An international personality Chapter GENERAL ADVICE ON ACTION 42 Preface Security Coordinating activities Relations with international organizations Relations with other organizations What is pressure? Letters Appeals Delegations o to use t is an oo Public actions Symbolic actions Performances This is the sixth edition of the Amnesty Inter- Second Part. Chapters 7, 8, 9 and 10 give Target sector work national Handbook. It is a basic reference suggestions for group work and campaigns. manual for Amnesty International (Al) members, Chapter 9 CASE WORK 50 Groups should consult the handbook before Responsibilities of an Al Group particularly those working in local groups. It has undertaking activities. Note that these chapters International Secretariat liaison with local Al groups been prepared by the movement's International give only general advice. Groups working on Coordination Secretariat and is available in various languages individual cases receive prisoner dossiers with Selection of prisoner cases and local editions. Copies can be obtained from Closure of cases detailed instructions: these take precedence at the International Secretariat or from section Aftercare all times over these general suggestions. Correspondence with government authorities offices. Third Part. Chapters I I. 12 and 13 include Correspondence and meetings with government New AI members should not feel obliged to reference material on Al policy and human representatives read and immediately digest all the information it rights in international law. The Publicity and press relations contains. However, members are expected to be Working Rules Approaches to other organizations and institul ons in Chapter 13 specify the familiar with the policies and rules explained in responsibilities of Correspondence with AI contacts all parts of the movement and the normal Correspondence with the prisoner and family it. There is a list of chapter headings at the procedures of the organization. Relief beginning and an index at the end: these indicate Visits to the prisoner's country the information contained in the handbook. New working methods are always being The material is presented in three parts: developed. This diversity and flexibility is one of Chapter 10 LETTERS AND TELEGRAMS 59 the strengths of the movement. As a result the First Part. The first six chapters introduce Chapter II AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL POLICY 63 handbook can never be a definitive document. Statute of Amnesty International AI's worldwide activities and structure. The To check up on any current policy or to obtain Impartiality and the Defence of Human Rights last chapter, "Commonly Asked Questions", advice on particular problems, please consult Amnesty International and the Use of Violence gives concise answers to questions members your coordination group, section office or the Policy Guidelines on Conscientious Objection often face. Declaration of Stockholm International Secretariat. Guidelines for Sections and Groups Guidelines on Al Sections' Activities concerning Human Rights Violations in their own Countries Guidelines for the Acceptance of Financial Contributions and Fund-raising by Al

Chapter 12 HUMAN RIGHTS IN INTERNATIONAL LAW 83

Chapter 13 WORKING RULES 89 Publicity and publications Statements on members' countries External relations Case work and campaigns Missions/Al travel International cooperation Finance, fund-raising and relief Membership, internal structures and information handling

Chapter 14 COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS 94

INDEX 96 2

Chapter 1

cons irac of o e

Amnesty International was launched in 1961 to An early supporter of the movement, the bring out of the dungeons the forgotten prisoners. It humanitarian Dr Albert Schweitzer, underlined began with a newspaper article calling on people the significance of Amnesty International's of all walks of life to begin working impartially purpose. In a special message in 1963, he wrote: and peacefully for the release of thousands of men believe that world peace can only be achieved and women imprisoned throughout the world for when there is freedom for people of all politics, their political and religious beliefs. These were to religions and races to exchange their views in a be called "prisoners of conscience". and with continuing dialogue. For this reason I would that a new phrase entered the vocabulary of particularly ask all those who are working in their world affairs. different ways towards world peace to make their Within a month more than a thousand people contribution, preferably by active service or, had sent in offers of practical help. Six months failing that, by financial contribution, to this later founder Peter Benenson announced a further great new endeavour called Amnesty Inter- step in the campaign. What had started as a brief national." publicity effort was being converted into a per- Not everyone was of that view. As the move-

• manent international movement. "We believe that these first six months have shown that in an increasingly cynical world there is a great latent reservoir of idealism to be 1 tapped," he declared. The full capacity of that reservoir would be needed if practical action were to counter the • reality of political persecution. Trade unionists were being arrested in Spain, dissenters faced long prison terms in the German Democratic Republic, detainees in South Africa were sub- jected to brutality and ill-treatment in custody, civil rights workers in the United States of America were being persecuted, political trials 4 were taking place in the Soviet Union.

Official silence In each case where the free expression of views was being suppressed by torture and imprison- ment. Amnesty International members (slowly being organized into groups) attempted the seemingly impossible. They began their own "0414' battle against official silence and political per- Pablo Picasso was an early supporter of the Amnesty Interna- secution. They contacted the prisoners' families tional movement, to which he gave this drawing. and lawyers and began sending off postcards, ment became better known and attracted more letters and telegrams appealing to government support, its critics became vocal. A report on authorities to respect human rights. allegations of ill-treatment of detainees in 4 A conspiracy of hope

Nort hem Ireland caused a furore in t he United intervened and saved my life." Chapter 2 K ingdom, the country where the Amnesty Another voice from prison: "Faith in your appeal had first appeared. As other reports came efforts and concern sustained me throughout the out on country after country, denunciations horrible period of my imprisonment. Without followed. The Soviet journal lzrestia referred to hope I think I would have died." "ideological saboteurs"; Rastakhiz in Iran dubbed The movement had become a lifeline -- a Amnesty "a new puppet show that the com- - conspiracy of hope", open to everyone pre- nes International o a munists have started". pared to work in defence of human dignity. It had But from inside the very countries that were proved that ordinary people could work together damning Amnesty came other voices. The post- regardless of politics in an effort to halt the Thousands of people are in Today. Al has more than 350,000 members, cards and the telegrams and the little parcels of excesses of tyranny. prison because of their be- subscribers and supporters in over I 50 countries medicine were getting through. Letters came The award of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1977 liefs. Many are held without and territories with organized sections in more hack. many of them smuggled out of prison or brought with it a reaffirmation of the original charge or trial. Tort ure and than 40 of them. Its International Secretariat in past airport censors. "We have been able to face Amnesty vision. In making the award, the Nobel the death penalty are wide- London has a stair of about our problems with great determination as a result Committee stated: "The world has witnessed an 150. Each year the spread. In many countries, movement handles, on average, nearly 5,000 of encouragement from people like you," wrote increasing brutalization. and internationalization men, women and children individual cases regardless of the ideology of Winnie Mandela. one of the hest-known leaders of violence, terrorism and torture.... Through its have "disappeared" after be- either the victims or the governments concerned. of Black opinion in South Africa. "We know that activity for the defence of human worth against ing taken into official cus- The advantage of AI's approach is that it we are not alone in our lifelong battle. We owe degrading treatment, violence and torture, Amnesty tody . Others have been put promotes respect for universal principles not this feeling to you. . . International has contributed to securing the to death without any pretence of legality: only at the level of governments and international From the labour camps, from the torture cells, ground for freedom, for justice, and thereby also selected and killed by governments and their organizations but also through the concerted from the families and lawyers came new accounts for peace in the world." agents. action of individuals working in small local of torture. of psychiatric abuse, of secret exe- We in Amnesty International are less confident. Despite efforts at the United Nations and in groups. cutions. And always the insistent appeal: "You Countless prisoners remain. Torture remains. the field of international law, the world still lacks Whenever AI hears of political arrests or of must do whatever you can to help us." Executions are reported daily. Now human efficient machinery to prevent these and other people threatened with torture or execution it Faced with mounting evidence of the atrocities rights run the risk of being dragged down in violations of human rights. Perhaps the only concentrates first on getting the facts. At the being inflicted on prisoners, an epidemic that the tangle of international power politics. alternative which has proved at all effective has seemed to spread like a cancer in the seventies. International Secretariat researchers collect and been the force of aroused world opinion. This is Amnesty International launched a global campaign Complete independence check every available detail in order to build up the fundamental belief and experience upon profiles of the prisoners and the circumstances for the abolition of torture. The voice of the Faced with this challenge, our complete indepen- which the work of Amnesty International (AI) is under which they have been detained. The movement took on a new determination. dence is even more imperative. We have an based. Research Department receives information from Wherever prisoners were being subjected to obligation to keep partisan politics out of the AI plays a specific role in the international many sources including hundreds of newspapers torture -- there were dozens of nations where the work for prisoners of conscience. We have an protection of human rights. Its activities focus on and journals, government bulletins, transcripts practice had become systematic, leading to muti- obligation to maintain the highest possible stan- prisoners: of radio broadcasts, reports from lawyers and lation and deaths in detention — Amnesty Inter- dards of accuracy in our reports. We have to It seeks the human rights organizations, as well as letters national would intervene. A new network was set keep Amnesty International true to its own ideal release of men and women detained anywhere for their beliefs, colour, sex, from prisoners and their families. AI also sends up, using telephones, post office boxes, telegrams — an independent people's movement defending ethnic origin, language or religion, provided they fact-finding missions for on-the-spot investigations and telex machines to alert volunteers if torture the victims of political imprisonment, torture and have not used or advocated violence. These are and to observe trials, meet prisoners and interview was a possibility. Once a report was checked, the death sentence. "prisoners of conscience". government officials. hundreds of appeals could be on their way within We need every donation anyone can send us. When the facts have been established, efforts hours. It became a life saving operation. But we need more. We need commitment. We It advocates fair and prompt trials for all on behalf of the prisoners can get underway. The need people prepared to work for the release of political prisoners and works on behalf of such local groups and sections then undertake the vital Ordeal of torture prisoners of conscience and to send telegrams people detained without charge or without trial. work of demonstrating international concern for Among the many victims was a teacher. While or write letters or stand in the rain outside It opposes the death penalty and torture or the protection of the basic human rights violated he was being tortured by the police they opened a embassies or do whatever has to be done to other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or in each case. Government and prison officials telephone line between the torture chamber and stop the next wave of torture and executions. punishment of all prisoners without reservation. are faced with insistent, continuous and informed the prisoner's home, forcing his wife to listen to This is a long-standing commitment we have AI does not support or oppose any govern- appeals. Letter after letter goes to cabinet ministers her husband's screams. During that ordeal she made to the prisoners. As long as they are ment or political system. Its members around the and embassies. Al members try to get publicity died of a heart attack. The prisoner himself incarcerated for their beliefs we must be ready to world include supporters of differing systems in their local press. Influential people are asked survived and was eventually allowed to go into use our freedom in defence of theirs. who agree on the need to protect all people in all to sign petitions and support protests. exile with his children. Fie told us: "They killed This statement was issued for the 20th anniversary of Amnesty countries from imprisonment for their beliefs, A unique aspect of the case work — placing my wife. They would have killed me too; but you International in 1981. and from torture and execution. the emphasis on the need for international

6 Amnesty Internattonal Today

protection of human rights — is the fact that people have been taken to known torture centres Chapter 3 each group works on behalf of prisoners held in or have been sentenced u) death. Volunteers in countries other than its own. The working methods dozens of countries can be alerted in such cases, of the movement reflect this principle and ensure and within hours hundreds of telegrams and that impartiality and independence remain funda- other appeals can be on their way to the govern, olitical I rison ent, mental to all Al's activities. No members are ment. prison or detention centre. expected to provide information on their own Al group members also ure an xecutions countries and no members have responsibility take part in national and in- for action taken or statements issued by Al about ternational publicity drives their own countries. to draw attention to pat- The mandate beliefs, colour, sex, ethnic origin, language or If it is clear that the victims are prisoners of terns of human rights religion who have not used or advocated vio- At the core of Al's work is its "mandate- which conscience, their cases are allocated for adop- abuses in various countries. lence. Their imprisonment is, in itself, a violation determines the scope and limitations of its activity. tion to one or more local groups. Group members These often highlight prac- of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights The mandate applies to three different. but study the background to each case and organize tices such as widespread de- and Al works for their immediate and uncon- overlapping, categories of prisoner: all prisoners, appeals for the prisone(s immediate and un- tention without trial; laws ditional release. political prisoners and prisoners of conscience. conditional release. Every group is assigned used to imprison people for These essential elements of the mandate are It specifies what Al may do on behalf of prisoners responsibility for at least two prisoner cases, the non-violent exercise of set forth in the first article of the AI Statute, fhe symbol of in each of these categories. This can be balanced geographically and politically to reflect their rights; the systematic Amnesty Inter- which is reproduced in full in Chapter 11. It can represented, for the purpose of demonstration, the movement's impartiality. use of torture; political kill- national is a lighted be amended only by a two-thirds vote of all candle surrounded by by using the flame of the lighted Al candle. In addition to working for the release of ings and executions. barbed wire. delegates attending a meeting of the International prisoners of conscience, Al tries to give them and To monitor the observance of international Council, the movement's supreme governing their families humanitarian assistance during the legal standards in political cases and to make universal body. opposition period of detention. Funds are raised for food, representations on behalf of prisoners AI under- As patterns of human rights abuses vary and clothing and schooling; books are supplied for to torture takes a number of missions each year. On the and as Al becomes more deeply involved in com- students whose arrest interrupts their education. basis of these missions and its research activities executions bating them, there are often precise points on Occasionally assistance is provided for legal aid. AI issues statements to the world press and which the mandate needs clarification. Such When mass political arrests take place, it may fair and publishes major reports. prompt issues are referred to the International Council sometimes be impossible to identify each of the AI is financed by its worldwide membership, trials for for decision after study and debate. If Al members victims. The scale of the arrests and the pro-. by individual subscriptions and by donations. all political want further information on mandate issues not prisoners cedures to keep the detainees in custody may Members pay membership fees ( varying from dealt with in this handbook, they should consult make it difficult to establish whether they are country to country) and conduct fund-raising immediate their coordination group or section. prisoners of conscience. But wherever people are campaigns in their local communities. Strict release of being held on politically related grounds AI all prisoners guidelines for the acceptance of funds stipulate of conscience groups urge the government concerned to give that any "funds requested and accepted by Prisoners of conscience them fair and prompt trials or release them. Amnesty International must in no way incur It is impossible to calculate how many prisoners In many cases individual prisoners are re- financial dependence, real or apparent, upon any of conscience are held throughout the world. In leased after sustained efforts by Al groups. Some political interest or group singly or in combi- many countries secrecy and censorship hinder are freed soon after their cases are taken up; nation, nor limit the freedom of activity and the flow of information about such people to the some are released in general amnesties; others expression enjoyed by the organization, nor outside world. What is certain is that for each serve their entire sentences before gaining their direct its areas of concern-. The accounts are name that is known there are many more that are freedom. AI does not claim credit for the release audited annually and are published with the unknown. of any prisoner. But once a case is taken up for organization's annual report. In the case of all prisoners, AI opposes the Some names are known in the outside world — adoption. AI never gives up its efforts. AI has formal relations with the United Nations, death penalty and torture or other cruel, inhuman leaders of political parties or trade unions, or As well as seeking the release of prisoners of UNESCO, and the Council of Europe, the or degrading treatment or punishment. This those who have forcefully and outspokenly dis- conscience and fair and prompt trials in political Organization of American States and the Organ- category can be seen as the all-embracing, outer sented from official views. But these are the cases, AI campaigns for the abolition of torture ization of African Unity. In 1977 it was awarded edge of the flame. Within that, as we move famous few. The majority are ordinary men and and the death penalty in all cases. This includes the Nobel Peace Prize and in 1978 the United towards the centre of the flame, is the category of women who are detained for the non-violent trying to prevent torture and executions when Nations Human Rights Prize. all political prisoners. Wherever such prisoners exercise of their rights. are held AI works to ensure that they have fair Many prisoners of conscience are held for and prompt trials. Moving again to the centre of trying to exercise their inalienable rights to the flame, we come to the category ofprisoners freedom of expression, association, assembly or ofconscience — people detained because of their movement. Many have dissented individually 8 Political Imprisonment, Torture and Executions Political Imprisonment, Torture and Executions 9

from governnwni policy. Some arc detained facts, usually from both local and world opinion. has not used or advocated violence. adoption of such prisoners are included in because they belong to political or religious Imprisonment takes different forms. Most Some cases are taken up for INVESTI- associations. Some are conscientious objectors Chapter I I . prisoners of conscience are held in prisons, GATION because the prisoners are held on to military service. Others are imprisoned simply camps, interrogation centres or army barracks. politically related grounds without charge or because members of their families are political or Many others are held under house arrest, without trial or because they have been con- Political trials religious activists. Some have themselves tried physically restricted by "banning- orders or sent victed in proceedings that did not conform to to publicize human rights violations in their into internal exile in remote places. Some have internationally recognized norms. Al urges the countries. been forcibly confined to psychiatric hospitals. authorities to respect the prisoners' rights to a Each case needs rigorous and painstaking fair trial and in the case of those detained assessment. Information reaches the Research arbitrarily to bring charges against them or Department of the International Secretariat in release them. many ways. It comes from the world press, Three rules safeguard Al's impartiality in its which is scanned both at the International Secre- case work: tariat and in the section offices; from prisoners and their families, often sent at great personal I . Groups work simultaneously for prisoners risk; from lawyers, refugees and religious bodies: held in countries with different political and • from national and international organizations; social systems. Political prisoners in many countries are con- and from AI's own missions to countries. All this Groups do not work on behalf of prisoners victed in trials that violate internationally agreed mass of information is carefully examined, held by the groups' own governments. This standards, or are held for years, sometimes sources cross-checked, biographical and legal reflects the emphasis on international responsi- decades, without any trial at all. data collected, and a careful assessment made of bility for the protection of human rights. Al strives to ensure that all political prisoners each case, taking into account the changing Groups are not asked to work for the release of are given a fair trial within a reasonable period of politics and laws of each country. anyone whose imprisonment can be reason- time, not just prisoners of conscience, whose The research staff are responsible for estab- release is sought regardless of criminal pro- 0 ably attributed to the use or advocacy of lishing whether particular detainees come within violence on his or her part or to espionage. ceedings. While the term "prisoner of con- Al's definition of prisoners of conscience This reinforces the distinction between science- is strictly defined, the term "political — people detained for their beliefs, colour, sex, prisoners of conscience (the only category of prisoner- applies to anyone who is imprisoned ethnic origin, language or religion, who have not prisoner for which Al seeks unconditional where there is a political element in the case. used or advocated violence. Such cases are release) and other prisoners ( for whom AI When political prisoners (suspected members of assigned to Al groups for ADOPTION: AI seeks fair trials or protection against torture opposition groups that use violence, for instance) seeks the immediate and unconditional release of and execution) and ensures that AI cannot are not necessarily prisoners of conscience, AI all such prisoners. justifiably be accused of supporting "terror- urges that they be given a fair trial within a Prisoners of conscience can be held anywhere—in jails, bar- If Al believes an individual may be a prisoner ism". AI applies this distinction in all cases reasonable period, or, if charges are not brought, racks, remote islands or camps such as the one seen in this clan- released. destine photo. of conscience but lacks conclusive evidence, the and all countries, irrespective of political case may be assigned to a group for INVESTI- considerations. For a detailed analysis of this AI bases its work for fair trials in such cases on Members of national minorities in a number of GATION. The group attempts to obtain further question, see Chapter 11, -AI and the Use of internationally recognized standards that require: countries have been jailed for trying to achieve information about the case. If further infor- Violence". the provision of defence lawyers of the some degree of autonomy. Trade union activity mation becomes available or if the authorities prisoners' choosing; or participation in strikes or demonstrations is a fail to provide adequate information to justify the AI has been part of the worldwide effort to get — full prior consultation with defence counsel; common cause of imprisonment. In certain prisoner's detention, the case may be changed to conscientious objection to military service countries members of religious groups are arrested open trial in the presence of outside ADOPTION. But some cases do remain IN- recognized as inherent in the fundamental observers; for religious practices prescribed by their faith VESTIGATION cases, even for long periods, human right to freedom of conscience. The the testimony of defence witnesses and which exceed the limits set by the state for because insufficient information Statute states that "every person has the right is available on right of cross-examination; religious activity. which to base a decision to adopt the individual freely to hold and to express his or her con- Few states openly admit that they have as a prisoner of conscience. Even if more facts victions and the obligation to extend a like the repudiation of evidence extracted under detained people in violation of international cannot be obtained, persistent inquiries on freedom to others". This principle includes the duress or torture. standards. Many governments refer to a threat to behalf of such prisoners can often help to protect right of a person to refuse military service on the In situations where administrative detention is national security and apply legislation which them and to remind the authorities that there is grounds of conscience or personal conviction, used Al goes beyond work on behalf of indi- defines the threat so broadly that anyone international interest in their cases. It should be without incurring any legal or physical penalty. viduals and presses for a general amnesty for all believed to be critical of official policies can be noted that, according to an International Council Anyone who is imprisoned for exercising this political detainees (if prisoners of conscience locked away. Common to most government decision, AI is not bound to accept a govern- right is considered by AI to be a prisoner of would benefit), for measures to ensure detainees responses is an effort to obscure or withhold the ment's opinion as to whether a prisoner has or conscience. International guidelines on the fair and prompt trials or for repeal of the 10 Political Imprisonment, Torture and Execut ons Political Imprisonment, Torture and Executions 11

legislation under which they are held. Situations proclaimed in the Universal Declaration of involving mass detention without trial are often appeals or seek clemency. This has often hap- Human Rights and other international standards. the subject of AI reports. pened after trials in which the rights of the It is irrevocable: it can he inflicted on the Where trial procedures are notoriously unjust, defence have been severely restricted. innocent; it is brutalizing to all involved. Exe- as in military courts that try and sentence Al keeps a log of all known death sentences cution is an act of violence. and violence tends to civilians who have no right of appeal or when the and executions throughout the world. It has a provoke violence. The death penalty has his- defendant is denied free access to legal counsel, network of coordinators who organize publicity torically claimed large numbers of victims from or when the legislation under which prisoners of and campaign for the abolition of this inhuman sir racial, ethnic, religious and minority groups. It conscience are detained is itself a violation of the punishment. Whenever possible. campaigns are has never been shown to have a special deterrent launched to stop threatened executions and in a Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Al effect on violent crime. highlights this in its reports as well as in repre- number of countries Al members are urging their The United Nations General Assembly has sentations to the governments concerned. own government to repeal the death penalty an declared that it is desirable to abolish the death issue on which Al members have the right to In its work for fair trials AI may send lawyers s penalty in all cases and that the crimes to which it from other countries to observe and assess raw campaign in their own country. applies should be progressively reduced. In line political trials. In some instances cases of with this position, widely accepted international political prisoners convicted after unfair trials are Political killings standards state that it should be imposed only for assigned to AI groups for INVESTIGATION - "t • the gravest crimes, and should not be introduced by governments as are cases of prisoners detained for long for crimes to which it does not already apply. periods without trial. Hundreds of thousands of people during the past However, a number of United Nations member When prisoners of conscience or individuals decade have been the victims of deliberate states have, on the contrary, actually increased who are likely to become prisoners of conscience killings carried out on the orders of governments the number of offences punishable by death. have difficulty obtaining the assistance of com- or with their complicity. Disturbing departures from international stan- petent lawyers, AI looks into the possibility of The killings are the work of regular military dards have included denials of the right to appeal providing legal aid. In countries where this is a and police forces, of special units created to • in death penalty cases, or to petition for clemency. problem on a large scale, AI may discuss the function without normal supervision, of "death Executions have frequently taken place within entire question of legal aid with the government squads" operating with government complicity hours of the death sentences being passed, and with appropriate bodies in the country, such and of assassins whose victims are selected leaving no time for the defendants to lodge as bar associations. targets in other countries. A pattern of such killings -- known as "extra- judicial executions" — is often accompanied by This secret photograph of a Latin American torture victim hang- Torture ing by his wrists was sent to AI by a military officer as evidence the suspension of constitutional rights, an erosion of systematic cruelty inflicted on prisoners. of the independence of the judiciary. intimi- Torture today is systematic in many parts of the dation of witnesses, suppression of evidence and world despite the international agreements that of torture, however, experience leads Al to a failure to act on the results of independent forbid it and despite the many denials from very different conclusion. Torture, once toler- investigations. Governments often deny that the governments that use it. ated, becomes routine and ultimately a semi- killings have taken place or that their agents were Torture knows no geographical boundaries, clandestine political institution, often spreading involved. They may blame the deaths on oppo- nor can it be ascribed to any one political from country to country. sition groups or try to pass them off as the result ideology or economic system. The list of modern To combat torture, AI has launched a worldwide of armed encounters with government forces or torture techniques includes not only the use of Campaign for the Abolition of Torture. It has say that the victims were killed while trying to archaic instruments like whips, clubs and thumb- concentrated its efforts on two major fronts: (i) escape from custody. screws but also of the contemporary technology intervention to rescue torture victims when Governments are responsible, however, under of electricity, sophisticated methods of psycho- details are available and (ii) mobilization of national and international law for the lives and logical assault and drugs that can cause dread, international public opinion and organizations to security of their citizens. They have a duty not to hallucinations, muscle spasms and paralysis. provide long-term protection from torture. Torture is used as a means of gaining infor- ipj commit or condone political killings and to take Details of the campaign are included in Chap- 411 all legislative, executive and judicial measures mation, of forcing confessions and of intimi- ter 4. dating the population. Whatever its immediate necessary to ensure that those responsible — purpose, torture humiliates the victim and directly or indirectly — are brought to justice. dehumanizes the torturer. It is one of the ultimate The Death Penalty Their accountability is not diminished by national security considerations or by the fact that human corruptions. Al opposes the death penalty on the grounds that opposition groups commit similar abhorrent acts. Those who justify torture argue that a lesser it constitutes a cruel, inhuman and degrading The term "extrajudicial executions" is used evil can be used to combat a greater. In the case punishment and is a violation of the right to life by Al for such killings in order to distinguish 12 Political Imprisonment, Torture and Executions Political Imprisonment, Torture and Executions 13 them from the judicial death penalty a Although AI is not a general penal reform Offenders - the body responsible kw issuing conscience soon or to be subjected to torture or sentence imposed hy a court after a prisoner has organization. in the course of its regular case and reviewing the Standard Minimum Rules. extrajudicial execution. Al does not recognize been convicted of a crime for which this penalty work it frequently asks for prisoners to he that emigration ( voluntary or involuntary ) is an is provided by law. It also distinguishes such allowed to see a doctor or lawyer, to have visits acceptable alternative to the release of prisoners killings from deaths caused by the use of from relatives, or to be permitted to read. study, of conscience. Al is also opposed to the release reasonable force in police operations, as per- write letters and take exercise. AI reports the Refugees of prisoners by exchange and takes no part in mitted hy national and international legal conditions in which political prisoners are held in The Statute of Al commits the movement to arranging such trade in human beings. standards, and from killings in armed conflict. providing –financial and other relief to Prisoners Al is often asked to help refugees from one AI has frequently campaigned to expose and of Conscience and their dependants and to country who are detained in another. In this halt political killings by governments in a range persons who have lately been Prisoners of Con- case, Al applies its normal investigation and of countries. In 1982 an international conference science or who might reasonably be expected to adoption procedures. Al is also asked was convened by the Dutch Section of Al to plan to help he Prisoners of Conscience or to become political refugees who face deportation back to an international campaign. AI later organized a Prisoners of Conscience if convicted or if they their country of origin. In these cases, the local worldwide campaign to publicize killings and were to return to their own countries, and to the Al section tries to ensure that the refugee in increase the pressure on governments to take the dependants of such persons" (Article 2). question is guaranteed the right of appeal against necessary steps to stop them. Al opposes the sending of individuals from deportation, An AI section, in consultation with one country to another where they can reasonably the International Secretariat. may ask its "Disappearances" be expected to become prisoners of conscience country's government to grant asylum on humani- or to be subjected to torture, the death penalty or During recent years "disappearances" have tarian grounds. It may attest that refugees might extrajudicial execution. In addition assistance become a cause for increasing concern. The term lose their freedom if obliged to return home. may be given for people to emigrate, if they want **disappearance" is used when people are arrested Al is a member of the Co-ordinating Committee to, to another country from the one where they or kidnapped by government agents or by other on Assistance to Refugees of the Organization of are being held as prisoners of conscience or can groups directly or indirectly supported by the African Unity, It also maintains contact with the reasonably be expected to become prisoners of government and the government subsequently United Nations High Commissioner tor Refugees. Behind the prison walls in many countries, inmates are held in refuses to acknowledge that they have been appalling conditions. seized and detained. particular countries and makes representations Victims of illegal detention often run the risk of Our freedom in defence of theirs to governments. The membership has also been being tortured and killed. It is clear that the postcards, telegrams and parcels are getting through. More and more involved in campaigns or long-term programs to AI considers "disappearances'. a gross vio- requests are received from prisoners and their families and lawyers who believe help from Al draw public attention to conditions in particular lation of fundamental human rights, frequently will make a difference. Letters come back, many of them smuggled out of prison or past air- prisons and seek improvements. AI does not, involving not only detention without charge or port censors. however. seek to duplicate the efforts of other trial but also torture, cruel, inhuman and degrading The same week that a young law student was sentenced to three years' imprisonment in an bodies more specifically concerned with prison treatment or punishment and extrajudicial exe- Eastern European country—he had been arrested after collecting signatures calling for the inspection, such as the International Committee cution. It has made consistent efforts to publicize release of political prisoners—his father wrote to Al: of the Red Cross. "disappearances'', campaign on behalf of the The basis for Al's work for proper prison "I experienced the blessing of your appeal, for you have raised your voice in victims and raise the issue at the United Nations. conditions is the United Nations Standard defence of my son. . . . Amnesty International is a light in our time, particularly for "Disappearance" cases are allocated, where Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners. those on whose eyes darkness has fallen, when the prison doors close behind them. By possible, to AI groups who then make regular This document, adopted by the First United your selfless work this light shines on the ever-widening circle of those who need it." inquiries of the appropriate authorities about the Nations Congress on the Prevention of Crime Among the many other victims was a teacher in Latin America. While he was being tortured prisoners' whereabouts and often keep in touch and the Treatment of Offenders, lays down 95 by the police they opened a telephone line between the torture chamber and the prisoner's with the missing people's families. provisions covering basic requirements for the home, forcing his wife to listen to her husband's screams. During that ordeal she died of a proper treatment of prisoners. The rules cover heart attack. The prisoner himself survived and was eventually allowed to go into exile with his Prison conditions such items as the availability of medical services, children. He told us: regulations for discipline and punishment, use of "They killed my wife. They would have killed me too; but you intervened and saved Many prisoners are kept in cramped. over- restraining implements and complaints pro- my life." crowded and grossly inadequate conditions. In cedures open to prisoners. A special section Some prisoners are released soon after their case is taken up; some are freed in general some cases this may be done deliberately to (Rules 84-93) deals with the conditions of amnesties; others serve their entire sentences before regaining their freedom. Al, however, demoralize the prisoners; in others, it may prisoners awaiting trial. does not claim credit for the release of any prisoner. This is regardless of whether it has been constitute an additional punishment imposed by At an international level, Al makes submissions investigating the case or campaigning for the prisoner's freedom. But once a case the prison authorities, such as prolonged solitary to the five-yearly United Nations Congress on is taken up for adoption, Amnesty International never gives up its efforts. confinement. the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of How Amnesty International Works 15 Chapter 4 It may have to press for the prisoner's rights to legal advice and family visits, to a fair trial (including a defence counsel of the prisoner's nes International choosing) and to appeal. If the prisoner is sentenced to death, the group campaigns to OUR MANDATE or s prevent his or her execution. It may also he Secure the immediate and unconditional concerned about the victim's prison conditions release of all prisoners of conscience. and may need to urge the authorities to allow the Ensure fair and prompt trials for all political Research prisoner medical care and visits and permission prisoners. to write letters and take exercise. Abolish torture and executions. In many countries where arbitrary detention RESEARCH is central to Al's entire work . of political suspects has taken place on a massive The Research Department of the International OUR CAMPAIGN scale. Al's case work can affect only a small Secretariat collects and analyses information Human rights are a human responsibility. proportion of the prison population — although it about violations of human rights around the Whenever they are violated, people are the does help to highlight the plight of the many world and keeps comprehensive records of victims. They and their families need practical hundreds whose names may never be known. known or possible prisoners of conscience, pol- help. More wide-ranging techniques have been developed itical prisoners, torture victims and individuals to bring pressure on governments responsible fbr Through its network of members and sup- facing the death sentence. systematic and widespread human rights abuses. porters, Amnesty International takes Information comes in from many sources, These techniques supplement the work for up individual cases, mobilizes public opinion public and private, and is carefully studied and individual prisoners and the two approaches are and seeks improved international standards cross-checked before any action is taken. Accu- combined where this is thought to best serve the for the treatment of prisoners. racy and impartiality are the twin principles prisoners' interests. that guide all Al research. Care is taken to dis- You can find out more about Amnesty A detailed account of AI's case work is given tinguish between allegations and facts. Each International, including the addresses of our in Chapter 9. new piece of information is evaluated and the local groups and sections, by writing to: rol2.4" it reliability of the source examined. Before any AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL information can be issued by Al it is subject to Campaigns INTERNATIONAL SECRETARIAT a series of checks within the International Sec- Case work Al's campaigns help to focus public attention on LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM retariat to ensure that it conforms to the organ- Al's global impartiality is translated into a sys- various aspects of political imprisonment. The ization's policies and research standards. Simi- tem of group work. Each group is assigned the campaigning is wide-ranging and varied: some ponents and that this practice was increasing to larly, care is taken to ensure impartiality. Al's cases of at least two prisoners from contrasting campaigns — such as those for the abolition of the extent that it could be termed an "epidemic". purpose is not to condemn governments as political and geographical backgrounds and as- torture and the death penalty — keep up the Accordingly. in 1972 Al's International Council such or political systems; nor does it support sumes responsibility for working on their behalf. pressure on issues of long-term concern: other, launched a Campaign for the Abolition of Torture the views of the prisoners whose rights it seeks If the group has received an investigation case, it shorter campaigns concentrate on human rights intended to rouse public opinion and mobilize to protect . The research is strictly about human must begin making inquiries about the prisoner. abuses in certain countries or on groups of people internationally against torture. The cam- rights, irrespective of political considerations. This usually involves writing to various govern- political prisoners. paign's first year culminated in the December To help guard against political bias, staff in the ment ministries. A constant stream of letters may Other campaigns may be organized by AI 1973 Conference for the Abolition of Torture International Secretariat are not responsible be needed and often the group must be prepared sections on particular issues in their own countries. for work on their own countries. and the presentation to the President of the to work for months or even years. If the group is Although members may not take up individual United Nations General Assembly of an appeal As a result of years of painstaking, thorough allocated cases of prisoners of conscience, the cases in their own countries, they may become to outlaw torture signed by more than one million research since 1961 A I is now widely used as an members must begin campaigning for their involved in campaigns to repeal death penalty people from 90 countries. The evidence from international resource centre by scholars, jour- release. This will involve sending appeals to the legislation or to urge their own government to Al's research files provided ample material for a nalists, governments and organizations seeking government, writing letters to the prison authorities, ratify the international human rights covenants. information on political imprisonment and related visiting embassies (coordinated through the section), 1973 AI Report on Torture, revised in 1975, violations of human rights. organizing petitions and public activities. The which presented the evidence of torture over the Research is only the first stage in Al's work. group may also be put in touch with the prisoners' Campaign for the previous decade. The information becomes the basis of action on families and may try to raise money to help them Abolition of Torture Opposing torture is part of the regular program behalf of individual prisoners of conscience and with legal fees or medical costs. of the International Secretariat, which monitors The abolition of torture has always been one of other victims. Suggestions for action are sent out According to the nature of the case, the group allegations of torture and initiates actions to stop Al's goals. By the early 1970s Al had amassed by the International Secretariat to Al's world- may have to take up a number of issues. It the practice. These efforts have been aided by may overwhelming evidence that torture was being wide network of members, groups and supporters. try to protect the prisoner from torture in detention. special studies ranging from long-term medical inflicted by many governments on political op- research into the effects of electric torture, 16 How Amnesty International Works How Amnesty International Works 17 papers on the legal implications of behaviour custody. response to evidence of the cruel, inhuman and resolution submitted by 42 non-governmental modification techniques and investigations of The campaign has been helped by the develop- degrading treatment of prisoners. In a series of organizations to the Sixth United Nations Congress torture in various countries. ment of Al medical groups. Assisted by a decisions in the early 1970s the International on the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of The campaign aims primarily to stimulate Medical Advisory Board, established in 1977, Council resolved to oppose torture and the death Offenders. The resolution called on governments international action to halt torture and rescue medical groups in some 30 countries have parti- penalty in all cases. It decided in 1974 to to stop using the death penalty and urged the victims. Since the Conference for the Abolition cipated in work on behalf of torture victims intensify its efforts for the total abolition of the United Nations General Assembly to promul- of Torture. Al has worked with sympathetic ( including the examination of such people from death penalty — a decision reaffirmed in more gate a declaration that would urge its worldwide governments. intergovernmental and non- many countries) and published reports on their recent council decisions. abolition. In October 1980 Al presented to the governmental organizations on an international findings. On Human Rights Day 1977 AI held an Secretary-General of the United Nations and strategy to outlaw and prevent torture. The first As part of its long-term campaign strategy, A I international Conference on the Death Penalty the President of the General Assembly an appeal major success was achieved on 9 December is also trying to get codes of ethics established tor in Stockholm. The participants included lawyers. calling on the United Nations and its member 1975 when the United Nations General Assem- jurists, medical practitioners, police, military judges, politicians, psychologists, police officials, bly adopted by acclamation Resolution 3452 states to take all necessary steps for the personnel and others who may become involved penologists, theologians and journalists from ( XXX) which brought into international law a immediate and total abolition of the death penalty in torture. A number of such codes have been more than 50 countries. The conference adopted historic Declaration on the Protection of All throughout the world. The appeal was signed by either drafted or adopted by professional bodies. the Declaration of Stockholm (see Chapter I I ). Persons from Torture or Other Cruel, Inhuman people in more than 100 countries including A collection of these, Codes of Professional It declared its total and unconditional opposition or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. The 12- internationally prominent politicians, govern- Ethics, has been published by Al. to the death penalty. It condemned executions. in article declaration defines torture and gives ment ministers, religious and labour leaders, whatever form, committed or condoned by guidelines for all states, including the stipulation police and prison officers, scientists, doctors, governments. It affirmed that executions as a that they must ensure that torture is a criminal EPRESSION ONG. artists and writers. Jr means of political coercion, whether by govern- offence and that any statement obtained through - ment agencies or others. are equally unaccep- torture or similar ill-treatment "may not be E- ( table. The Stockholm Declaration was adopted invoked as evidence against the person concerned Urgent Actions L by AI in March 1978 as a statement of principle or against any other person in any proceedings". _ AI has to be able to act quickly to stop torture on the abolition of the death penalty. AI is now seeking the adoption by the United and save lives. To do this it has developed a In September 1979 a major AI report, Nations of an effective international convention The network of volunteers throughout the world who Death Penalty. was published giving details against torture. Unlike the declaration against are ready to send immediate appeals in emer- about death penalty legislation and practice in torture, the convention would be legally binding gency cases. This Urgent Action technique was 134 countries, as well as arguments in favour of on states. first developed to help people threatened with k)31 abolition. AI realizes, however, that action merely on 4 ria- torture. It has since been extended to other cases In addition to these general initiatives. Al has this level cannot achieve the eradication of which demand immediate worldwide action. L, developed a regular worldwide program for the torture The movement's activities include: Since the middle of 1976 Urgent Action eradication of the death penalty, regardless of the appeals have been issued on behalf of victims — urgent worldwide appeals on behalf of victims crimes for which it is imposed. The program and potential victims of torture, in cases of "dis- of torture: includes: appearance", on behalf of individuals under —support for the rehabilitation of torture victims; — urgent action or other appeals to the head of sentence of death, of prisoners needing medical — publicity about torture through reports, state- state when a death sentence is about to be treatment, of prisoners on hunger-strike (when "Damn these Amnesty letters—the international market for ments to the international news media and thumbscrews has collapsed . . ." carried out; their demands fall within Al's mandate) and at international campaigns about torture in —public Al statements deploring the use of the critical stages in trials. particular countries; death penalty and urging clemency; Urgent Action appeals are telexed and mailed —mobilization of professional, religious, —long-term work by AI groups on countries from the International Secretariat to Urgent medical, trade union and other national, regional Program for the where the death penalty is in force; Action coordinators in different countries who and international bodies in the struggle against then send the appeal to groups or individuals. short-term actions on specific countries focus- torture. Abolition of the Urgent Action participants are asked to send ing on the death penalty and urging changes in telegrams or letters to the authorities in the AI members receive regular appeals in the Death Penalty legislation; country concerned. When appropriate, appeals monthly Amnesty International Newsletter on The fact that people were being executed because publicity and lobbying by sections within their by specialist groups, such as health workers, behalf of torture victims. They are asked to send their religion or opinions were unacceptable to own countries to change legislation or to lawyers or trade unionists, are requested. letters to the appropriate government officials their government was highlighted in the appeal prevent reintroduction of the death penalty. Further information on Urgent Action appeals urging humane treatment for prisoners in their that first launched the AI movement. Concern is given regularly to Urgent Action coordinators custody. They can also participate in the world- about the death penalty has frequently featured AI has persistently urged United Nations who in turn pass it on to those who participated in wide Urgent Action network that tries to prevent in AI's work over the years. As the movement member states to support moves to abolish the the original Urgent Action. If the situation the torture of people who have been taken into has developed so has its mandate, particularly in death penalty. In August 1980 AI backed a remains unchanged or has deteriorated, or

18 How Amnesty International Works How Amnesty International Works

if no new information has been received, organizes "special actions- on matters such as further appeals are requested. However, in Prisoners of repressive laws and the treatment of prisoners in nearly half the cases some change is reported: Conscience Week particular countries. The number of groups acknowledgement of detention, release, transfer taking part in these more limited actions varies, to hospital or commutation of a death sentence. No case of pol- although, like major campaigns, they too are MINISTRY itical imprison- coordinated by the International Secretariat and OF INTERNAL ment is typical, section coordinators. r SECURITY . Each is an in- Campaign for stance of acute personal su ffer- Regional Action Prisoners of the Month te I ing—of a hu- 0 man being detained unjustly, removed from Every month the International Secretariat chooses Networks normal life by the failure of governments to three cases of prisoners of conscience -- each of Groups may also participate in regional action respect universal human rights standards. them already adopted by one or more groups -- networks. These involve Al action on a par- for this special campaign. The prisoners may be Every year the International Secretariat selects ticular region or group of countries where there is extremely ill or may have been detained in severe prisoner cases for special action during Prisoners a pattern of human rights violations of Al conditions for a very long time; they may be of Conscience Week in October. The Inter- concern which cannot be dealt with only by long- representative of a group of prisoners needing national Council may decide on a particular term case work for individual prisoners or the human rights theme to be illustrated by the cases. extra efforts on their behalf. The details of these ibis new polies of Distrait/141ton has sabotaged ms stamp urgent action scheme. The networks are designed During Prisoners of Conscience Week cases are included in the A mnesty International Collection. In the old da%s when we had prisoners we used to get Al to make it possible for Al members to act quickly letters from all oser the world". Newsletter and sent to Al members and sub- members conduct special programs on behalf of' on cases of short-term detention, "disappear- scribers for immediate action. The three cases such prisoners. Feature articles on them are ances-, executions and other abuses of human You can seek the support of prominent citi- are carefully selected so as to reflect the political written for the local press and other publications. rights. In some regions, there is also a need for zens in your community and ask them to balance of Al's work. Special events are organized by groups and action on general concerns such as prison con- participate regularly in the campaign. Details of the three cases include addresses for sections: concerts, plays about freedom or ditions or legislation. Groups in a network may letters on the prisoners' behalf. Members may political imprisonment, public meetings, poster also be asked to assist the IS in seeking infor-

4. Creating publicity - your local group prefer to send their appeals to the relevant Al displays — to attract people to the living work of mation about specific cases that are not yet taken can encourage the local press to publish embassies in their own country, these letters Al and to raise funds and recruit new members. up for adoption or investigation. details of the cases each month so that a wider usually then being tbrwarded by the embassy to The networks are made up of groups in different protest can be generated. The group can also the authorities in the prisoners' country. sections. The background information and ask sympathetic institutions to publish the Among the actions which you can take on requests for action are prepared by the Inter- facts about the cases in their monthly bulletins Country campaigns behalf of the prisoners are: national Secretariat and distributed to groups via or newsletters so that their members can add and special actions the appointed coordinator at national level. their voices to the protest. 1. Writing individual letters - you can send Political imprisonment, detention without trial, Participation in a regional action network is one brief letters to the appropriate government torture and executions cannot be confronted of the additional long-term activities that groups

authorities appealing for the prisoners' release. 5. Holding public meetings - your local Al solely by highlighting individual prisoner can enlist in — to complement their work on You should do this as soon as you receive the group can hold a public meeting once a month cases. Much of Al's work, both national and individual cases from other regions. Newsletter and avoid expressing yourself in a to publicize the critical cases and to focus international, draws attention to patterns of way that might be construed as aggressive or attention on the work of the AI movement. A human rights violations and puts pressure on prejudiced. formal resolution can be sent by the meeting to governments to stop these abuses. the appropriate authorities on behalf of each Campaigns on these issues include organizing Missions

2. Organizing petitions - you can prepare of the three prisoners, or everyone can be petitions, generating publicity, holding public Al frequently sends experienced lawyers, other petitions on behalf of each of the prisoners and asked to write an individual letter on behalf of meetings and lobbying professional associations experts in the field of human rights and its own circulate them for signature among friends, the prisoners. and elected representatives. All these activities officials on missions to various countries and professional colleagues and other people aim to get the government authorities to respect conferences to represent the organization, or to interested in human rights. 6. Increasing awareness about human international human rights standards. The cam- collect on-the-spot information about prisoners

rights - the monthly campaign is an excellent paigns are coordinated by the International Secre- of conscience, legal procedures and other matters 3. Arranging mass letter writing --where way to raise basic human rights issues in any tariat working with a network of campaign co- with which it is concerned. Al missions are also possible, you can send details about the cases community and has been used effectively in ordinators in the sections. Hundreds of local sent to observe important or political trials. to other organizations or circulate them various countries by teachers, social workers groups participate in each international campaign All missions must be authorized by the Inter- among the general public with a request for and editors to increase public awareness — there are normally two or three each year. national Executive Committee, and the authorities letters to be sent on behalf of the prisoners. about human rights. As well as these large campaigns, Al often concerned are notified. A report of each mission 20 How Amnesty International Works How Amnesty International Works 21 is subsequently made to the International Execu- by an Al group has turned into a national protest sections' work on their own countries are repro- and many others contribute to Al's work either tive Committee. The report is normally sub- and made a distinct impact on a government. The duced in Chapter 11. as individuals or through their organizations. mitted to the government for comment before pressure of public indignation can make officials They are often asked by Al members to join in publication. reassess their policies. In many countries publicity letter writing campaigns on behalf of particular Missions on behalf of individual prisoners of abroad has helped lead to the granting of The United Nations individuals — for example. members of their conscience and visits to prisoners adopted by AI amnesties. improved prison conditions, open and International profession or social group — who are the victims are discussed in Chapter 9. trials and the commutation of death sentences. of political imprisonment, torture or other Worldwide publicity is generated by news Organizations violations of human rights. Some organizations Relief releases and the publication of reports. The Al's work is based on the belief that the join Al's country campaigns and special actions Prisoners are not the only ones to suffer the International Secretariat is responsible for their protection of human rights is an international or participate in the programs against torture, effects of imprisonment. A family whose bread- preparation and production. The major pub- responsibility. It seeks the universal application "disappearances", the death penalty and political winner has been imprisoned, perhaps detained lication is the annual report which gives a of internationally agreed human rights standards. killings by governments. for a number of years without trial, faces many country-by-country summary of the previous Work at the United Nations and with other inter- Many sections have appointed coordinators to hardships. Paying for food, school fees, rent and year's work. It also describes AEs initiatives in governmental and non-governmental organizations organize relations with target sectors, in particular travel may become an insuperable problem. the field of international organizations and its is therefore an important aspect of the movement's trade unions, religious groups, educational insti- Help, either from an AI group or from general programs for the abolition of torture and the efforts to develop international standards and to tutions and others involved in commercial, funds held at the International Secretariat, can death penalty. strengthen the machinery tbr ensuring that they financial, cultural. military or security relations make a great difference. Other publications include mission reports, are respected by governments. with other countries. In one country, the money may cover the fare studies of individual countries and of broader Al is represented at the United Nations by In some sections professional people have for a wife to visit her imprisoned husband. In issues such as torture, the death penalty and officers in New York, Geneva and Vienna. It is joined Al and formed "professional groups". another, it may help meet the family's living political killings by governments. The Inter- represented also at UNESCO in Paris. It has There are extensive networks of Al medical and costs. Relief funds may help the prisoner directly, national Secretariat also provides a monthly consultative status with the United Nations lawyers groups, and a growing number of teachers enabling him or her in some instances to buy the Amnesty International Newsletter. This is a Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and groups, journalists groups, and all-party parlia- few small luxuries prisoners are allowed, or basic bulletin which contains news of AI concerns in may therefore make representations in certain mentary groups. They join in the work on behalf necessities such as blankets and winter clothes in individual countries, special feature articles and ECOSOC committees. It contributes to the of individual prisoners and in general campaigns, cold climates. Relief is not intended, however, to the Campaign for Prisoners of the Month. work of the United Nations Commission on and help strengthen links between AI and their compensate the prisoners or their families for AI sections also publish reports and news- Human Rights and AI representatives attend professional associations. total loss of income during the period of detention. letters, many of which are translations of docu- most of its sessions in Geneva. On 10 December AI medical groups help their sections to Relief funds can also help the rehabilitation of ments issued by the International Secretariat. 1978 AI received the United Nations Human organize campaigns on behalf of prisoners in former prisoners. In certain cases it may be used Guidelines on publicity and publications for Rights Prize for "outstanding contributions in poor health and examine and treat victims of for medical care after torture. sections and groups are outlined in Chapter 7. the field of human rights". torture and ex-prisoners in need of medical care. In carrying out this humanitarian work, which AI has representatives also in Strasbourg (for They approach medical organizations in their is governed by the same principles of impartiality the Council of Europe), Brussels (for the Euro- Representations to own country, raise AI concerns at medical and political balance that guide the overall work pean Communities), and New York (for the congresses and work for the adoption and imple- of AI, the organization relies heavily on the National Governments Organization of American States). mentation of codes of ethics for medical person- generosity of its members and on individual AI sections have become increasingly conscious AI sections are often asked by the Inter- nel who may be involved in torture. donors. The many letters sent to Al by prisoners of the need to make representations to their own national Secretariat to make Al's concerns Lawyers groups participate in appeals for and their families attest to the importance of Al's known to their countries' representatives to the governments about AI concerns: guarantees of individual prisoners and general campaigns where relief program. United Nations and other international bodies. asylum for political refugees, diplomatic inter- their legal expertise can be especially useful. The way relief is sent to prisoners and their vention on behalf of political prisoners in other Details on international human rights standards Their contribution can make a particular impact families varies from country to country. In some countries, support for initiatives in international and Al's work with international organizations when AI takes up judicial and legislative issues instances centralized relief programs are organized human rights law in bodies like the United are given in Chapter 12. with governments, in cases of political prisoners by the International Secretariat; in others, groups Nations, human rights issues as they affect trade who have been denied a fair trial or been send gifts or money direct. and cultural relations, human rights education in subjected to torture. Lawyers groups also advise Relief procedures are described in detail in police, military and medical training programs, Target Sector Work AI sections about a variety of legal matters and Chapter 9. changes in laws on the death penalty and The professions, trade unions and other groups help draw the attention of the legal profession in refugees. in the community with special interests, skills or their countries to human rights abuses in coun- Publicity and AI sections and groups are not authorized, influence are frequently approached by Al for tries around the world. however, to make representations to their own support. This is called "target sector work". Al needs the support of organized labour: the Publications governments about violations of human rights in Trade unionists, journalists, academics, mem- movement has established relations with trade Publicity is one of Al's most powerful tools. their own countries, except in the case of laws bers of the medical professions, religious bodies, unions and involved trade unionists individually Sometimes a vigorous local publicity campaign that provide for the dedth penalty. The rules on women's groups, youth organizations, teachers and collectively in campaigns and case work. 22 How Amnesty International Works

Numerous religious bodies representing a thc transfer. can he taken when these transfers Chapter 5 wide range of creeds and denominations --- are known to facilitate violations of the human support AI. Many sections and local groups have rights with which AI is concerned. Specific established good working relations with repre- authorization by the International Executive sentatives of various religious communities in Committee is necessary in such cases. nes International their countries or localities. Commercial relations are a particular aspect Human Rights t rou out t e orl of target sector work. Approaching companies and other bodies and individuals influential in Education the commercial world is more complex than AI wants to increase public awareness of human Al is a movement of active volunteer members Most Al activists belong to local groups but in working with many other target sectors. Al rights and the involvement of Al members in throughout the world. They may belong to formal some sections there are many who are not neces- regularly gives information to companies and educational programs has become increasingly AI bodies. such as sections and groups, or they sarily involved in group activities. These indi- governments about human rights violations in important. may support Al activities as individual members viduals participate in the Campaign for Prisoners countries with which they have commercial Many sections are helping to introduce courses or subscribers. of the Month by sending letters on behalf of relations. However, it does not address itself to on human rights in schools, colleges and adult prisoners of conscience whose cases feature in the general economic system in those countries, evening classes. Teaching kits on Al and other the monthly Amnesty International Newsletter. does not draw political conclusions from its work educational materials include general literature Members and They may also take part in Urgent Action for human rights and refrains from calling for and articles about human rights issues to subscribers appeals --- sending letters and telegrams in an sanctions, such as boycotts, against govern- stimulate discussion (such as a course on AI has more than 350,000 members, subscribers effort to stop torture and executions. Members ments abusing human rights. Furthermore. Al "Prison Literature") and facts about human and supporters in over 150 countries and terri- and subscribers may also contribute to fund- takes no stand on the legitimacy of the commercial rights violations. In some programs school tories (1982 statistics). They come from all raising and publicity drives, selling and distribut- relations themselves or on the responsibility for children are asked to write letters on behalf of walks of life and include social workers, lawyers, ing AI publications, helping to recruit new such abuses by companies or others on the basis individual prisoners of conscience. In this way teachers, trade unionists, homemakers, students, members and carrying the AI message to profes- simply of their having commercial relations they can come to understand the problems Al journalists, doctors, nurses, retired people, sional groups that may be willing to take action with the countries concerned. deals with and how AI works. artists, clergy, veterans, labourers, politicians, on behalf of imprisoned colleagues. Similar principles apply when approaching In many sections teachers groups have been farmers, and so forth. The movement is open to institutions and governments operating in mili- established to explore the possibilities of intro- Individual members and subscribers in countries anyone who supports its goals. tary. security and police spheres. In certain ducing courses on human rights into school where there is an AI section have little direct cases, action can be taken by Al on military, curricula. cooperating with national educational security and police transfers to governments. institutions, teachers trade unions and educational Such action, including calling for a cessation of associations. Secretary General

INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMIME

INTERNATIONAL International Al SECTIONS COUNCIL Secretariat

I. In more than 2. Voting del- 3. The Interna- 4. The Secretary 5. The Interna- 40 countries Al's egates from the tional Executive General is ap- tional Secretariat membership is or- sections meet at Committee is pointed by the collects informa- ganized into sec- the International elected by the International Ex- tion about prison- tions with locally Council to decide Council. It goy- ecutive Commit- ell, coordinates tinted governing the movement's enu the move- tee to run the day- worldwide public- bodies. policy and budge. ment between to-day affairs of ity and campaigns Cannel! meetings. AI and head the and advises the International groups and mem- Secretariat. bers in their work. 24 Amnesty International throughout the world Amnesty International throughout the world 25

contact with the International Secretariat. support the Al section in their country. Guidelines for the work of local groups are letters sent by the International Secretariat to In countries where there is no A I section, The initiative li)r forming a local group usually given in detail in Chapter 11. any AI group in their country. Several sections people can become individual subscribers by comes from a number of individuals. Each may are sent prisoner dossiers from the Internatkmal registering with the International Secretariat. have heard about Al from a friend or through a Secretariat which they then allocate to individual They receive the Amnesty International News- newspaper or public meeting. After contacting groups. letter and are invited to participate in the Cam- the Al office in their country or the International The sections often produce their own news- paign for Prisoners of the Month and to support s\. Secretariat they receive further intigmation letters for their members, incorporating articles appeals in the newsletter on behalf of torture about the movement and, on request. the names in them from the Amnesty International News- victims and prisoners facing the death penalty. of other people in their locality known to be letter as well as news about their own activities. Subscribers pay an annual fee determined by the interested in AI. After they have met and In most cases, the sections are responsible for International Executive Committee. decided to apply for recognition as a group, the 4 translating Al information into their own local application is dealt with by the section office or and national languages. by the International Secretariat in countries The sections may establish different kinds of Local Al Groups without a local section. groups or structures in their own countries or Most of AEs active members work together in The section is responsible for training new territories. groups. From the beginning these local groups groups—sometimes by sending experienced AI The extent and nature of regional structures have been the basic unit of Al's structure and members to visit them or by organizing training varies from section to section. In a large country work. Over the years, the scope of their activities seminars. Such groups often start work on the or where there is a large membership. regional has been expanded and developed. Campaign for Prisoners of the Month and structures may be based on existing regional There are over 2,600 Amnesty International receive Urgent Action appeals. When the sec- divisions. The regional structure may be the groups in more than 40 countries registered with tion is assured that a group is able to carry the Sections focus for local groups and members in the area the International Secretariat. The number of responsibility of long-term work on a prisoner and may coordinate campaigns, training and groups is steadily growing, particularly in coun- dossier, the section approves the group and There are now some 40 countries where AI other activities. It may also serve an adminis- tries outside Western Europe and North registers it with the International Secretariat. members are organized into formal bodies, known trative function as a link between the section and America. as sections. These are of key importance in the local membership. All new groups should receive a copy of the providing networks for campaigns and case work, These groups normally consist of between 10 Amnesty International Handbook, the Statute fund-raising and publicity. They vary consider- Country Coordinators and Coordination and 15 active members (although many have and other basic documents. Usually prisoner ably in size and structure: in some countries there Groups. As sections become more experienced, more). One of their main tasks is to work on cases and action materials are sent to groups by may be a central headquarters with permanent they often appoint an individual or group of behalf of at least two individual prisoners. the International Secretariat via their section staff, regional offices around the country, several individuals to act as a coordinator or coordination Depending on the type of case, the group seeks office. (In some instances, where the section has hundred groups, and several thousand members. group for work on a particular country or part of the prisoner's release, a fair and prompt trial or not yet taken on this responsibility, the Inter- In others the section may consist of very few the world. further information about the prisoner's situ- national Secretariat sends the material direct to members and have limited resources. Country coordinators or coordination groups ation. The group sends appeals direct to the the groups.) An AI section is recognized by the International are a link between the Research Department of authorities of the country concerned, and where A group is free to organize itself in whatever Executive Committee and is responsible for the International Secretariat and the local groups. appropriate generates local publicity and interest way it thinks most effective for its work, provided contributing to and carrying out the movement's They are responsible for advising the section on in the case. Group members may send relief to that it observes the Statute and Working Rules of international policy. The responsibilities include questions about human rights in the country or the prisoners and their families where this is the movement. Most groups appoint a chair- organizing the membership and fund-raising; particular region and planning the work of the required. Groups also participate in any general person, treasurer and secretary and may appoint supervising and improving group work; planning section's groups and members accordingly. campaigns and special actions on human rights members to handle other responsibilities such as campaigns; developing contacts with the news The appointment and establishment of country in the country where the prisoner is held. press relations. Some groups find it useful to media, professional associations, trade unions coordinators or coordination groups is the section's Groups are expected to support the Campaign have one or more members taking particular and other bodies. responsibility, in consultation with the Inter- for the Abolition of Torture and the program for responsibility for the work on behalf of each All sections have an executive committee or national Secretariat. The International Council the abolition of the death penalty, through parti- prisoner case --- in order to have someone national board elected by the members. It is has adopted criteria for coordinators and coordin- cipation in the Urgent Action scheme or special always available to deal with urgent corres- responsible, either directly or through a permanent ation grouns and spelled out the minimum tasks appeals and campaigns. pondence between group meetings. office, for coordinating and administering the of such officers or groups. Any individual or Local groups represent Al in the community Continuity in the work of the group is essential. activities of the AI members and groups in that group interested in country coordination work and seek publicity for the movement's work. Provision must be made for the training of new country or territory. should consult their section. They contribute to the financing of the organ- members, proper handling of documents and All sections receive weekly mailings from the Professional Groups. To get members of par- ization by conducting fund-raising activities. correspondence and the transfer of tasks and International Secretariat that include campaign ticular professions to work on behalf of prisoners The funds they raise must cover their own responsibilities if group members are on holiday material, requests for action, country reports and of conscience and against torture and the death operating costs, provide relief for prisoners and or have to leave the group. general information. They also get copies of all penalty, groups may be set up by a section to 26 Amnesty International throughout the world Amnesty International throughout the world 27

coordinate approaches to professional associ- with each of these permanent committees. ations. These groups usually consist of members International In addition to these permanent committees There are now five permanent international of the same profession, such as doctors, lawyers other international committees may be estab- Executive Committee committees: and teachers, who seek to involve their col- lished from time to time by the International The International Council elects members to an leagues in Ars work. Such professional groups The Financial Control Committee was set Council or by the International Executive Com- International Executive Committee to carry out can assist local Al groups in their work on behalf up by the International Council meeting in mittee. For example a Mandate Committee was its policies. The International Executive Corn of individual cases. For example, they can Vienna in September 1973. It consists of three set up by the International Council in 1978. It atittee consists of nine members — seven, each organize appeals by the relevant profession to Al members and an alternate member elected clarified Al's position on standards for fair trials, from a different Al section or country, plus the government authorities and professional col- by the International Council for two-year terms. the definition of "prisoner of conscience", and Treasurer, as well as the International Secre- leagues in the target country. It reviews the financial administration of the policy on conscientious objection, sexual orien- tariat staff representative. With the exception of Some of the professional groups, in particular International Secretariat and monitors adherence tation and political killings. The committee's the staff representative who serves tbr one year the medical, legal and trade union groups, are to all financial procedures. It submits reports to report was discussed, amended and adopted by all members serve a term of two years (renewable) sent special material from the International Secre- the International Executive Committee and the International Council in 1979. and can be re-elected for a maximum of three tariat and participate in appeals and country International Council. Other special committees have examined the consecutive terms. The committee members campaigns. possibility of decentralizing Al's work and re- The Borderline Committee themselves elect a chairperson to hold office for comprises three viewed the movement's structure and its inter- people appointed by the International Executive one year ( renewable). The committee may also national decision-making process. co-opt up to two additional non-voting members Committee from three different sections or coun- The International to serve until the next International Council tries, and an alternate member from another meets. country to act in cases concerning one of the INTERNATIONAI. Council regular members' own countries. It considers INTERNATIONAI The International Executive Committee EXR'UTIVE COUNCIL The International Council is the supreme govern- normally meets four times a year. Each member cases referred to it by the International Execu- COMMITTEE Supreme (ioverning Carries out decisions ing body of AI. It consists of representatives of has specific responsibilities; however, they share tive Committee for advice on whether they ful- body of AI with imam- of International Council, rity to amend Statute, all sections who attend both as delegates and as collective responsibility for all decisions. Sub- fil the statutory requirements for adoption or acts as main governing decide overall policy, body between Council observers. It has the sole authority to amend the committees are sometimes set up to discuss investigation as prisoners of conscience. All set budget and pro- meetings and is respons- gram plan. movement's Statute. particular questions and make proposals to the communications to the Borderline Committee ible for work of Inter- The International Council full committee. The committee supervises the are channelled through the Legal Office of the national Secretariat and determines Al's all sections. mandate and policy. It reviews the activities of implementation of International Council decisions International Secretariat. Financial Control the International Executive Committee and the and the plan adopted by the Council. It discusses Committee The International Secretariat, and endorses a plan and approves priorities in AI's country work, Medical Advisory Board was estab- Sets up lished in 1977 by the International Executive specialist SECTION for the coming years. The Council elects eight of missions and approaches to governments. It GOVERNIM; Committee. It consists of four members from advisory the nine members of the International Executive approves initiatives at the United Nations and committees. BODIES different sections. It advises the Committee on Elected representa- Committee, including a Treasurer (the staff of relations with other international organizations, tives responsible for medical matters and, in consultation with the the International Secretariat elects one member large campaigns and budget proposals and takes section activities make International Secretariat and sections, helps proposals to Inter- from among themselves). It receives the accounts, major administrative decisions. national Council and coordinate the development of AI medical work SECRETARY GENERAL approves the overall budget (in relation to the The agenda and reports of the meetings are International throughout the world. Implementsdecisions Executive plan) and agrees on the annual financial contri- circulated to all sections. The committee also and plans of Inter- Committee. butions to be made by all sections, in accordance monitors the activities of the membership, receives national Council and An Advisory Group on Information Hand- International Execu- with their size and funding capacity. annual reports from sections and directs the ling and Technology tive Committee. Heads (InfoTech) was set up International Secretariat. The International Council usually lasts four development of the movement in new areas. by the International Executive Committee in Al SECTIONS and a half days and is a meeting of about 300 March 1981. It consists of four members and is General Meetings of membership debate people. It has met every year since 1968 — each responsible for advising the Committee and the INTERNATION AL policy proposals and year in a different city on the invitation of one of International International Secretariat on all aspects of infor- SECRETARIAT vote on resolutions to their own govern- the movement's sections. From Collects and analyses 1983 onwards it Committees mation handling, including computerization. information and ing bodies and to the will meet every two years. advises movement on International CounciL International committees are established by the The Committee for Systematk Evaluation of issues and activities. Working parties are arranged to discuss reso- International Council or by the International Techniques (SYSTEC) was established by the lutions put to the International Council by the Executive Committee to advise them about International Council in 1981 to evaluate AI's LOCAL AI GROUPS sections and International Executive Committee. particular aspects of Al's work. Members of working methods. It advises the International Al SECTIONS Discuss issues and The recommendations of the working parties are most committees are appointed by the Inter- Coordinate relations propose resolutions Executive Committee and sections on techniques then discussed and approved by the plenary national Executive Committee, in consultation between International to their sections' and studies their effectiveness as requested by Secretariat and local General Meetings session. All decisions are recorded in a report with sections. One member of the International and governing bodies. the International Executive Committee and groups and members. issued after the Council meeting. Executive Committee is responsible for liaison International Council. DECISION MAKING IN Al 28 Amnesty International throughout the world Amnesty International throughout the world 29

International Secretariat The secretariat is divided into five main Attached to the SG() are two specialized Campaign and Membership Department. departments which work closely together: units. the Legal Office and the Documentation This part of the secretariat is responsible The first Al headquarters was in a lawyer's Secretary General's Office. The Secretary Centre. for liaison with Al's members throughout the chambers in London, staffed by local volunteers. General's Office ( SGO) is the central point of world and the overall coordination of campaigns Out of this evolved the International Secretariat the secretariat. The Secretary General and the The Legal Office advises the secretariat and the and special action networks. It is in regular which now has a paid staff of some 150 people, Deputy Secretary General are responsible to the movement on international human rights stan- contact with AI sections and with members and comprising at least 20 nationalities, as well as a International Executive Committee tor the dards and legal questions. It is responsible for groups in countries where no section has yet been number of regular volunteers. The International organization's day-to-day work. They authorize relations with all international organizations and established. It is responsible for Al's develop- Council has periodically questioned whether the all Al's public statements and publications and works closely with the permanent Al represen- ment program in those parts of Africa, Asia, secretariat should remain in London. After look- are involved in decisions about all major policy tatives in New York, Paris, Geneva, Strasbourg, Latin America and the Middle East where the ing at a range of possibilities it has decided that it questions, diplomatic initiatives and missions. Vienna and Brussels. It also coordinates repre- movement is seeking new support. should stay there and continue to benefit from The SGO coordinates the work of the entire sentations made by Ai sections to member states This department, working on the basis of being in a city which is a convenient centre for International Secretariat. It organizes regular of international organizations. The Legal Office materials produced by the Research Department, gathering information, press contacts and diplo- planning and administration meetings. It is respon- handles questions related to the interpretation of coordinates the Urgent Action system and all matic activity. There are secretariat staff also sible for servicing the International Executive the AI Statute, reviews section statutes and campaigns and special actions. It coordinates working in Colombo, New York, Paris and San Committee and all international meetings, coordinates submissions to the Borderline Com- and monitors activities included in the regular Jose. including the International Council. mittee. Action Calendar and allocates case sheets and The Documentation Centre is the central point other action materials to the sections and groups. for storage and retrieval of Al information: it It takes a particular interest in work with target keeps all material produced by the secretariat as sectors, including trade unions and the medical well as public material from all sections. It also and legal professions: it advises Al professional supplies the International Secretariat with public groups on their work and it coordinates Al's information related to AI objectives including activities in the area of military, economic and press material and documentation from other cultural relations. organizations. It maintains Al's archives, a reference library and an audio-visual library. INFORMATION FOR ACTION from the International Secretariat The centre gives advice on information systems

and technology and has overall responsibility for MP 411,S% bayed “Ir taltot PS SSD yarttul reyearyh art yo SIT tH)SS re,e[ C ordinaterl by the r aro the development of computerized programs. ,trtam ot maierial lut parbro and Mcmheryhip Rom Ow Reward' I/apartment, hudi alyo Department r he late.i yer y he, pet rat oeiraor nev., Jholil cl,e••. Research Department. Nearly half the Inter- tor ryturo ;Loon ter•ilon, tot tut I Oct appear, and ',Olt/ I ( “(0•1111.11•11 • national Secretariat staff work in the Research Rut lip, reLtne reguld1 I Department. It plays the key role in collecting, GOT Eit'ISITS s Pt III It ItIr puhli re.t.i,e verifying and analysing information on political Arld C65111011. ,01011, nom Al yyrth the nest, metlIJ members and the HI I It I. to pti.oner. are handled tR, the imprisonment, torture and the death penalty Internaiinnal Loordinated by a Press and Publita 'Neyretanal kela .ommIttee at the turns Department , aony arc error& throughout the world. The department has five nt 141110/141 Sect t: phith is in legulat [hoed by the land! ( ennui tunas ‘oniasi *Oh the set. divisions for work on Africa, the Americas, Setreiary lreneral ate handled hs the reiartais ot local set Admit-inflation okndinating Asia, Europe and the Middle East. The Head Oepao mem Al's puhln informa and Deputy Head of Research are responsible for !ion NOV elm planning and quality control. PHOTOS "'SHOW t POLKA is set lks 1hr Researchers prepare the background infor- TS are indesed and soserning bodies ot the stored in the Inxurnen mosement The Secietark mation, strategy and briefing papers on which tattoo (entre tot use hs (tenefal is responsible the moternent AI's policy, action, publicity work and diplo- tot implementatton and major initialises matic initiatives are based. The department

maintains a wide network of contacts, prepares NEM. ARCH Ot.PARTMVS11 and participates in Al missions, and monitors Researsh Oaf I Ands incoming allormat ton news reports on each region. INFORMATION and make resommenda lions RP aelton bs thr Details about prisoners, SCLIVIarlat and the With the help of executive assistants, re- that conditions and rest of ihe mosement (amities reaches Me searchers advise AI members on case work and International Secretariat campaigns. The Research Department also makes tram man) +minx. li is Pa“ed to the Research THE STRUCTURE OF THE INTERNATIONAL SECRETARIAT Department for proposals for the distribution of relief to prisoners esalual ion and their families. 30 Amnesty International throughout the world

Press and Publications Department. This sections. Chapter 6 department handles all relations with the inter- The Press and Publications Department has national news media and is responsible for the two decentralized units outside London which production and distribution of the Amnesty Inter- provide information services in Latin America national Newsletter, leaflets and publicity and Asia. One is in Colombo, Sri Lanka: the material. It is in regular touch with section press South Asia Publications Service (SAPS). The officers and assists sections' publicity efforts. other is in San José, Costa Rica: Publicaciones The work of the department also includes the un a aisin an A mnistia Internacional (PAI). inances development of new information materials, including audio-visuals, to enable AI to reach a Administration Department. The Adminis- F inancial independence is as vital to wider and more international public. Al as its AI sections also share in fund-raising efforts. tration Department is responsible for all office political independence. In addition, the department is responsible for In some countries they organize extensive management and financial procedures, including A movement that started working in 1961 out - direct mail" campaigns, asking selected indi- Amnesty International Publications (AI Ps). personnel, training and induction programs, of a small office where volunteers often paid for viduals throughout the country to support AI This includes the editing, typesetting, designing, accounts, travel arrangements and security. In the postage from their own pockets, has grown with a donation. In others, they arrange major printing, selling and distributing of publications consultation with the Treasurer, it prepares the into a permanent campaign needing a regular publicity events, usually involving well-known as well as their translation, revision and pro- annual international budget for submission to the international budget. pertbrmers, from which the proceeds (ticket duction in several languages. It is also respon- International Council, administers the Relief Demands on the organization have grown as sales, sound recordings and film and television sible for liaison with Unite francophone (the Fund, and services the Financial Control Com- more and more prisoners have been arrested and rights) go to AI. Some sections sell posters, publishing cooperative of the French-speaking mittee. It also maintains contact with section as torture and executions have spread. Despite badges, stickers, key rings and other items. sections) and the translation units of other treasurers. the increased costs of exposing and campaigning The International Secretariat helps sections against these abuses, the movement has decided with their fund-raising efforts by making sug- that it must rely on the efforts of its members and gestions about publicity and by supplying facts donations from the public. and figures about AI's activities. For example, This reliance on public support is essential to the cost of the total international operation can keep the movement free from interference by fi be broken down into small units that people can n • your letters are of great value ..." governments, funding agencies or pressure groups. grasp easily — one case sheet or one minute (see It must remain independent, impartial and self- box). financing. The following extracts are from a letter sent to an Al group by a former prisoner of conscience, Financial guidelines ensure that all donations imprisoned for the non-violent exercise of her human rights: are made in accordance with the AI Statute and Professional artists and public relations experts often give free advice and practical help to AI. that no funds are received that would compromise On the next two pages are fund-raising sugges- "Love and compassion for prisoners of conscience is doing so much to create bonds the movement's integrity. No funds are received tions prepared for Al's 20th anniversary in between people . . from governments for the international budget. 1981: "Give a minute to Amnesty Interna- "I would like to thank you and your friends with all my heart for what you did for tional" and "Where there's hope there's life". me and what you are still doing for my friends in my country . . . Every donation . . . not all letters from overseas friends reached me and my family, but it is makes a difference important to realize that your letters are of great value even if they don't reach us. Thousands of AI members and supporters give Tips on fund-raising Sometimes in the camp, the camp authorities and warders would start to be especially their time and money in an effort to end injustice. Don't be afraid to ask for money. It's vital to polite to me and they would avoid ill-treating other women prisoners in my presence. I Every donation helps to build a broad popular AI's work and every donation is a practical guessed something had put them on their guard. Later on just by accident I found out movement, backed up by independent financial contribution to the cause. Asking for that a letter from abroad had come for me and caused this change in their behaviour. support, reflecting public opinion throughout the donations is one of the best ways of showing "Any letter or post card addressed to political prisoners, their families or to officials world. people that AI is exactly what it says it is — a . . . plays an important role in the lives of the prisoners. It improves their position Fund-raising is therefore a vital part of the voluntary movement relying on public even if the letters never reach their hands. So again and again I repeat: be patient and work of everyone in the movement. Individual support. persistent in writing letters to save these people. Even if you get discouraged from members pay membership fees and many give an Don't be afraid to keep asking for money! seeing no results from all your efforts—what you write makes a difference . . . we additional contribution to help keep the work People who support Al's campaign for human cannot live and struggle without help from other democratic countries." going. All groups organize their own fund-raising rights realize that money is always needed. A activities — collecting money on street corners, good idea is to ask people to make out a selling second-hand books, holding special events, "banker's order" or "standing order": regular organizing local concerts and art exhibitions and contributions paid automatically every year asking local personalities for donations. from their bank accounts.

32 Fund-Raising and Finances Fund-Raising and Finances 33

thousands of peaceable men and women an in prison of their political or religious beliefs Many art held without cha.rge or trial Many have been tortured 'lb bring the hope of freedom to all these people requiree org effort on a worldwide scale -- a -conspiracy of hopes, open to everyone prepared tc work in defenoe of human dignity That conspiracy Is alive now, and has already proved effective. Its name is Amnesty International. Amnesty International ham supporters and groups in more than 130 countries throughout the world. It Is independent of any national, ideological or religious grouping. It works for the release of prisoners of conscience everywhere, provided only that they have not used or advocated violence In less than 20 years Amnesty International groups have intervened on behalf of more than 20,000 prisoners in over a hundred countries with governments • of widely differing political ideologies Countless prisoners remain Many are held in remote labour camps or in distant island prisons But nowhere is a prisoner beyond the reach of hope And where there's hope, there's life

Thousands of peaceable men and women are in prison today because of their political or religious beliefs. Many are held without charge or trial. Many have been tortured. "FAITH 'I TOUR ER S AND LV The liberation of each of these victims is being carefully planned by a network of Amnesty International volunteers working all over the world to combat political imprisonment, T TR HON 6BLE P torture and executions. ItilHOUTHOPE I TWA i IN, HA IT At the heart of this global operation is an international headquarters that collects and PRISONER PANAMA NOW FREE analyses reports of arrests, trials and secret detentions. NA iMDNOCONTACTMAIM WINE OM After a report has been verified by expert research staff, Amnesty International members i RE DRiT Sy JAW NY I are ready to publicize the case and campaign to restore the victim's human rights. SE DI AND FERV Li I) INAT NiN It is a lifesaving operation and every minute counts. RING EN NiNG ON REWAL !ICJRd TIM E 116 EFFORTS ANNE TY ERI. 01 A WY OM In one minute Cost? mc fauszaT gic it 4111•11. PRISONER.HUWARIA. an urgent cable can be sent The international nerve centre for this NOW FREE to a government, c for unique operation runs on £16 a minute. S. the immediate release of a These are encouraging words, but we are under no illusion about the enormous f That adds up. challenge we still face Our aim is to expand our international movement to the IC prisoner of conscience • .1 And so does the cumulative effect of point where world public opinion will finally put an end to the nightmare of o • an international news the research and appeals that have made secret arrests, torture and killing agency can be alerted to the The more supporters we have, the more we can do. If you would like to help, Amnesty International one of the most • case of a critically ill prisoner effective voluntary movements for the please fill in the form below But first, if you have access to a duplicating machine, pass on this message make six copies of this leaflet and send each to a special one-page appeal on behalf of a defence of human rights. a torture victim can be duplicated for inter- a friend who you believe would also be willing to help 1.1.9bring the hope of Every minute's worth comes from freedom to the world's prisoners of conscience national distribution donations by people who hate injustice. a long-awaited detail about a political trial can be filled in on one of the thousands E16 a minute for freedom means E1,996,800 a year. of index cards that keep the headquarter's That's what Amnesty International will need this "I CAN R FORGET i WAS MOVES TO TEAR prisoner records accurate and up-to-date year to keep its lifelines open. a quick phone call can be placed to the A minute 216 N UN LT jWASHANVIDIWASIt United Nations in an effort to prevent a An hour E960 KIRIEF LETTER FROM AMNESTY MTERIV A working day E7,680 group of political refugees being sent back PRISONER, TAIWAN. NOW FREE to a country where they would face torture A five-day week 238,400 A month 2153,600 and death A year E1,996,800 I wish to support the work which Amnesty International is doing to tree prisoners of conscience and to stop torture and executions AB a first step Iam sending a donation to aid prisoners and their families and to MO increase the pressure on governments to respect human rights regarzlless of politics Enclosed is the sum of I enclose a money order for - Please return ttus forrn to (please print) LiPlease send me a Please make your donation payable to Donor's name subscription to the Amnesty Inter- AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL Ipleasc print) nnional Newsletter address and Repon NAME OPlease send rnr more information ADDRESS about the global PLEASE PRINI campaign for human rights

Please give as much time as you can. Li Please send me further information about Amnesty l iter national 34 Fund-Raising and Finances

Don't miss any chance of asking for a donation. No government donations can he accepted Chapter 7 Everyone who comes to an A 1 event or a by any part of the movement. nor can govern group meeting should be asked for a contri- ment money he sought for the international bution. Always encourage people to make a budget. Funds for relief work (as is usual in the "silent cootribution": paper money doesn't case of humanitarian and charitable organiz make a noise when it drops into the box. ations) may be accepted from any source. Don't forget to put the local or national Al including governments and their agencies, but all address and bank account number on every such funds must be administered under the ne ove ent, ne ice leaflet and publication. exclusive control of Al. The International Executive Committee must not report or comment on human rights be notified of all donations to sections that International team work abuses not within its terms of reference. Al's finances amount to more than five per cent of their annual Al consists of thousands upon thousands of income. The committee then decides whether people working together for the same cause. That Al's reports and public statements must he, Al's finances are controlled by the International each such donation can be accepted in the light of is its great strength. Every Al member is part of a and be seen to be. impartial. The organization Council and International Executive Committee. these principles. worldwide team. Each one is responsible for does not support or oppose any government The Council establishes the movement's inter- The funds are used for the services of the Inter ensuring that AI continues to speak and be heard or political system. There must be no grounds national budget and monitors its international national Secretariat and to pay for international as one movement. Today's instant global com- for accusations that it takes sides in political financial procedures. The Treasurer, who is activities such as missions, international con- munications make it all the more important that conflicts. elected by the Council to the International ferences, representation at the United Nations the movement's statements — whether made in Executive Committee, is responsible for the Al's reports and public statements must be and on AI publications and publicity. The budget Mexico, Sweden or Japan, or whether made by a budget and supervises its expenditure. All accurate and precise. They must present also covers the cost of maintaining communi- local group or the International Secretariat are sections are required to submit annual financial facts about specific human rights violations cation throughout the organization and coordin- based on the same accurate information and statements to the International Executive Com- and reports of such violations. They should ating its international activities. reflect the movement's common mandate and mittee. The audited accounts of the International not include partisan opinions or political All Al sections pay a registration fee. The policy. Secretariat are submitted to the International speculation. Al does not comment on the "fair share" each section is expected to contribute Each level of the movement, local, national Council. possible reasons for human rights abuses or to the international budget is based on a formula and international, has elected or appointed The income for the international budget comes government motives. which includes a "group-related fee" (according officers responsible for issuing Al information to almost entirely from funds raised by AI groups to the number of groups in the section) and an the public. For example, the press officers are Al's reports and public statements must and sections. Strict guidelines have been estab- "income-related fee" (which is a percentage of responsible for all contacts with journalists — always make clear the nature of the source of lished by the International Council for the accep- the section's total income, as agreed by the Inter- and the board of each section is responsible, after allegations and any other information that tance of such funds (reproduced in full in Chapter national Council). consultation with the International Secretariat, has not been confirmed by the organization. 11). Before accepting any money, whether directly In addition to the international budget, Al has for approving any statement issued by Al in their Great care must be taken when republishing or through sections, AI establishes that the a relief fund and a Program Reserve and Special country. These procedures are necessary to keep claims by other people or groups. Only if Al contributions are in accordance with these guide- Projects Fund, contributions to which are received all public statements up-to-date, accurate and thinks there are grounds for believing that the lines which ensure that: from sections, groups, members and supporters. properly coordinated with other initiatives. information is reliable should it be cited. For A Financial Control Committee comprising In 1979 the International Council decided that this reason, much information given to AI — AI is, remains, and is seen to remain in- representatives from three sections or countries all section publications arising from research by cannot be published: it cannot be confirmed dependent and impartial; is elected by the International Council to super- a section should be approved by the Inter- and cannot be reported as reliable. The Al is and remains broadly based and self- vise and undertake regular reviews of the financial national Executive Committee before publication. reproduction of statements by others may supporting; administration of the International Secretariat to In practice, approval is now the responsibility of often need to be prefaced with the warning Al's funds are given in accordance with the ensure that all necessary financial procedures the Secretary General. This procedure was intro- "AI does not necessarily share the opinions objectives of its Statute. are being followed. duced to ensure that all AI information would be or conclusions of the author". accurate and impartial. The International Secre- Al's reports and public statements must not tariat procedure for checking and approving give the impression that the organization drafts of its own publications and news releases supports the views of the prisoners whose is used for section drafts. The following guidelines rights it seeks to protect. Al is not a political apply: support group and does not endorse any other AI' s reports and public statements must cause. conform to the organization's Statute and its Al's reports and public statements must international policy. The International concentrate on the issues that fall within its Council has set strict limits on Al's mandate. mandate. Background information should These limits must be respected — AI does not overshadow the description of matters of 36 One Movement, One Voice One Movement, One Voice 37

concern to Al or give the impression that Al letter is an easy to-use source of up-to-date is taking a stand on issues that are not within usually arrange distribution of international news reports. Keeping a file of Newsletters is a good its mandate. way of keeping abreast of all major AI concerns. 1 It 1 MI41 11%1 releases (which come from the International Secretariat) to the press in their countries. Group The Weekly Update Service sent from the IS Al's reports and public statements must be to sections often contains information which is press officers issue news releases to the local worded so as to be consistent with its policy specifically supplied in order to help inform the press. Groups should consult their section press of impartiality. For example: officers for advice about the procedures in their news media about current problems. Much of the a) it does not label governments "regimes" countries. information in the Weekly Update Service and in or "dictatorships'•. Or describe them or their circulars sent out each week is marked EX- leaders as "reactionary-, "fanatical- or TERNAL. Be careful. Do not include infor- The Forgotten PrisonersBasic Rules. The three-way division of Al "despotic": mation or advice marked INTERNAL in a responsibility for press work matches the organ- it does not use vague labels when des- public statement or give it to journalists. ization of the news media — local, national, cribing political parties, opposition move- INTERNAL information is guidance and advice international. As a result, the following rules ments or other organizations. It describes for Al members, often on organizational matters. should be observed: their policy and avoids interpretations; Much of Al's work is based on internationally it does not use unnecessary adjectives recognized human rights standards. One basic Group press officers should check with their and adverbs for extra effect. The facts them- document about them is the International Bill of section press officer before sending material selves are usually sufficiently shocking: Human Rights, which includes the Universal The article that launched the Al campaign in 1961: "Open to national publications or broadcasting additional emphasis is unnecessary and can Declaration of Human Rights and the two your newspaper any day of the week •nd you will find • stations. It can damage Al's work if editors of undermine Al's credibility as an impartial human rights covenants. Other international report from somewhere in the world of someone being imprisoned, tortured or executed because his opinions or major organizations are bombarded with un- and reliable source of human rights infor- agreements are the Standard Minimum Rules religion are unacceptable to his government. . . . The news- coordinated statements from groups. mation. for the Treatment of Prisoners and the paper reader feels a sickening sense of impotence. Vet if these Declar- feelings of disgust all over the world could be united into Do not send news material to the press ation on the Protection of all Persons from Graphics, cartoons and photographs used in common action, something effective could be done. . . . The outside your own country. You may be Torture. important thing is to mobilize public opinion." The appeal reports and public statements must conform attracted wide attention. Translations of the story appeared unintentionally conflicting with the work of to the same standards of accuracy and im- in the press in other countries ranging from France to India. AI members and staff in other sections or the Within months the groundwork was laid for a permanent partiality. They should be used because they international campaign. International Secretariat. There are excep- are directly relevant. Speaking to the tional cases, usually special campaigns when members may be asked to write Al compiles and circulates a lot of information. news media letters to foreign publications, but you should do this There are handy, easy-to-use documents that a AI began with a newspaper story and the news only when asked to by the International well - informed Al member needs. Make sure you media have played a vital role in helping the the press and can ensure consistency. Press Secretariat. Any other exceptions must also have access to them. movement grow and be effective. At all levels of officers can usually offer advice on how to be agreed in advance. There is the Amnesty International Statute. the movement AI needs to maintain a relationship handle interviews — they may know the reporter If you are in an area where there are repre- Be sure it is the up-to-date text, including any of mutual respect and confidence with journalists. or the newspaper and will know what information sentatives of international news agencies or changes made at the most recent meeting of the Responsibility for this rests with the press has already been prepared for distribution to radio networks, remember that they are supplied International Council. officers — in each group and section. journalists. with news and information by the Inter- The best account of recent AI work is the The Press Officers. All sections have a press national Secretariat, and are usually in latest annual Amnesty International Report. officer responsible for coordinating media work The press officers answer most of the questions regular contact with the International Secre- This is also the basic reference document about in their countries and for all contacts with the that come in from the press. This is by far the tariat Press Office. Al's concerns around the world. When using an national news organizations. Each section has most effective and efficient procedure. They annual report, remember that it is a reference its own procedures for communicating with the learn to recognize what reporters are looking for document covering a specific I 2-month period news media and for ensuring that group-level and what their problems, deadlines and pro- News releases. The most common way of and so cannot be completely up-to-date. Annual initiatives are carefully coordinated. Many cedures are. They can provide a service that getting information to news outlets is the news reports up to and including the 1981 edition hard-pressed professional journalists appreciate. sections have their own manuals for group press release. Many group press officers receive cover the periods up to the end of April of each officers. The International Secretariat has pre- When a reporter wants a detailed interview advice from their section on how to prepare and year; the 1982 edition covers the period to the pared a general Press Officers Manual. about a particular prisoner or country and a issue news releases. The following general end of 1981 and subsequent editions are planned The press officers are always responsible for country coordinator or other specialist is avail- advice may be useful to groups if they have not to cover calendar years. coordinating press contacts. If other AI mem- able, the press officer will usually ask that person received such guidelines: Any more recent information is contained in bers are given the opportunity to talk to the press, to talk to the reporter. published country reports or external circulars, News should be presented in the way that they must first consult their group or section Section press officers issue news releases to all of which are sent regularly to all sections. As editors require it. By writing a news release in press officer, thereby ensuring that there is one their national press after consultation with the well, the monthly Amnesty International News- person who always knows what is being said to the required style you can reduce the risk of International Secretariat Press Office, and having it rewritten and distorted.

38 One Movement, One Voice One Movement, One Voice 39

The first step in preparing any news release is Next should come a short, simple headline. to ask: how can the most important idea be Publications presented in one clear sentence'? If the public If you are aiming at radio stations, read your Over the years Al has developed an extensive were to read or hear just that sentence would draft news release aloud. Could a news Amnesty International publications program. Al information is now broadcaster use it without much change? they have got the essential message'? widely available in hooks, newsletters, leaflets, Journalists have a simple formula for telling A bad news release is often worse than none. If posters, films, tapes and slides. the story in the first sentence. They ask. does it confuses or fails to get your message across. Amnesty International Publications (AlPs) it answer most Of the questions: what. where, contains errors, or makes editors think AI is a are issued under the authority of the Inter- when, who and why? It is not always neces- trivial organization, it can damage your work. A national Executive Committee. They include the sary or possible to answer all of those news release that only repeats back to the news- annual Amnesty International Report, questions, but think about which are necessary papers the human rights information they have the monthly Amnesty International Newsletter, for your news release. already printed, without adding new facts or reports of AI missions and other publications on Be clear and straightforward. Be as brief as ideas, will not make them take AI seriously. countries or human rights themes. Al sections possible. A long, complicated news release lf, however, you have a clear message and receive stocks of all these publications from the will be thrown away or rewritten. The more it there is something new to say, you will have a International Secretariat and groups may order is rewritten, the greater the chance of your good news release. Your new information may them from their section. A publications cata- message being lost. simply be what AI — or your group — is doing logue is available from the International Secre- Always say clearly who is issuing the news about a situation that is already known to many tariat. release. A local group may issue a release readers: holding a meeting or some other event. Don't be discouraged if a particular news release only in its own name and section news The Amnesty International Report and the releases must clearly say, for example, "The is not used by editors (but don't complain to them Amnesty International Newsletter are also avail- Venezuelan Section of Amnesty International either). There are many pressures and problems able on subscription in three languages from the said today . . .. The only news releases which you may not know about which can secretariat. which say "Amnesty International said squeeze out newsworthy items every day. 1982 The annual report provides a country-by- today . . ." are those issued by the Inter- country survey of AI's work to combat political national Secretariat. imprisonment, torture and the death penalty publications catalogue amnest y Always include an explanation of what Al is international news release throughout the world. The report is organized in Al's reports get worldwide coverage in the news lammunonea ;atoms Ill LAAPenpia. Simi taiga Mell MP LIONS and does, even if it is only a brief phrase such TAIMAtar DI AU 'Mt reborn Aardmity Leeds* Tabs 11102 regional sections and normally covers develop- media and have a growing readership. Below, in as "the worldwide human rights movement". ments in at least 100 countries. This is probably one Asian country, students go through the AI MCI •01 401 I SI reports in the "AI corner" set up in a local pub- Give the date at which any information or DIST IS PO MO the most widely read — and most influential — of ,A10 /UM OW, hr. On 1.1•M111:91‘ lic library. the many reports published by AI each year. description was accurate. ("As of 15 May le &MIST PIC

/4111F,. LS", gam' L..41 •US TO The monthly newsletter provides a regular they had not been charged. . . .") v151T TUR1911 SILITAJ1 TIS011 account , ,nre, .1, , Lna tnday Iliflonngy IS of Al's work: the latest reports of fact- In group news releases the news is often the Surat 1411/1. It hod ••kedi y•roin inn r •en ,•••, • Inn-1,P •)111•1" rt.. hack t•part• finding missions, details about the arrest and

at near Iv 14,11, 11,0 4. sh pr var. in poor 1•4 Ith.•irIi activities of the group itself. The local press ot release of political prisoners, reliable reports of wants news of what is happening in its com- Me yr dre •••.... a lats. near •tba. Lunn, bald •t torture and executions. It also gives practical munity and your news releases must take this Di.,rb•11., 4,, ,4 n. non in flatfln Tat*. May taId to 1.1.6 to information for AI supporters: each issue in- 1..•d,,n rms., .0 .n• anm into account. soma wer• cosmic tad a• nailing acts, but no. •r• Pulp, ',In Ann Iora al rsalas,• cludes appeals on behalf of prisoners of conscience

Swan t In,.1, at t ma, .01 it had flans* News releases should be typed, double- Me ammo of °early 100 and victims of torture and the death sentence said in be Jr, pl., nen r M. worIS4014 PS r.Vt Imvsent [lel ow spaced. around the world. a4 z, ha. 11111. 1./.. .1,...,411 1y. tar hat., In's*, DLIAlade., 007., V1.11

tans, 1....mr• r '4ina At the top of the news release the first thing ad 19.4.4. Iota, sad Pa. 114.11. tory/ The newsletter is widely used by journalists,

the editor should see is who is issuing it: In • 1.1. ter E r.. hart tab anat te Latakat. Imaastp let•tmatlafl1 students, political leaders, medical doctors, "Amnesty International Adoption Group 44.1 0.pa nen • I.. flea 4 441 flat tea • 1.444a9 4cc UK* to OA Intl.., lawyers, other professionals and human rights I I •tin, 46..4 • T .."ntat •,01 any =SUM, repasts Anch amt.. se {h.

451, (town) and (country)"; then usually an h•allt• th• ' t men naval activists throughout the world.

int 1•11 neat ma 1, Sin .967. Ass Axe recap..4 yet address and, if possible, a telephone number 41. a tos ***** tat ul :he emnant 4•.1 today AI sections also issue their own publications. and the name of the person to contact with 1/MASGO DOS 11.1 Da 101.011000 If these concern countries and include material questions. V, MOIST •961 ..• apsoda vow ma. cam=

••.,• •••••10 •••• a mei 41. Medal .11•11 • , ....in 4. .6..4 wawa. not already issued by the International Secre- ••111•••11 • wafts ••• ems • a.. les .• Suss n, On a line by itself should be the embargo ....MP, . 00•1.11001 • .ryig 5.4.1 •• •• IS. l• • IS * nntionan. • • • M. um. • .WEryloru • Yvan.. Iva. 411as o • NW I \W.-, ••• • tariat, the text must be approved by the Secretary mann m date and time — the clear instruction: "For Own., vs m•t.a. • • General. The same procedure applies to group Immediate Release Today Tuesday 1 June A news release from the International Secretariat. publications of this sort which must first go 1985". through the approval procedures in each section.

40 One Movement, One Voice One Movement, One Voice 41

It is also a question of how information is there is growing evidence that the letters and tele- presented, a question of style. grams have some impact: they arc not lost or A I makes a distinction between allegations callously brushed away by uncaring officialdom. and facts. It lets the facts about human rights The wide variety of circumstances affecting An international abuses speak for themselves. Every effort is individual prisoners and the considerable uneven- made to specify Al's limited concerns in the field ness of Al's information in so many areas, makes personality of human rights and to distinguish it from anti- statistical evidence of effectiveness unreliable . . . an effective and popular movement of well- government and political groups. The organization and often misleading. meaning, stubborn people who will not go away presents itself as somewhat anonymous: it is a More convincing are the letters and state- or shut up -- backed by impartial, authoritative collective institution with its own democratic ments from prisoners, from their families and research . . and procedural checks and controls rather than a colleagues and from former prisoners: body that pushes forward personalities. "I can never fOrget how I was moved to tears Al has an international personality. Any statement it opposes torture and the death penalty tor all when unexpectedly I was handed in a solitary or activity by A I in one country can affect the prisoners without reservation. Al is independent perception of Al in other countries. Responsi- cell a brief letter from Amnesty International.- Al in a single sentence: AI must be and be seen to be independent — bility for maintaining AI's credibility and effective- — a released prisoner of conscience "the worldwide movement that works for the politically and financially. Political independence ness rests with all parts of the movement -- release of prisoners of conscience, fair trials not only affects the need to make clear the sections, groups and members. The movement Al cares for political prisoners and an end to torture impartial, non-partisan character of the work for depends on a thorough understanding by all its AI has to be careful and restrained, accurate and and executions". human rights, but also the limits on cooperation members of its principles and goals and on a with other organizations. Al does need to co- balanced in its statements, because it is trying to spirit of international cooperation. Al is impartial operate with other groups, but it must avoid persuade powerful institutions to open their jails. having its independence and integrity com- close down their torture centres and dismantle Al's credibility stems from its impartiality. promised. their gallows. Human lives are at stake and care International human rights The movement maintains a balance in its case Financial independence remains a key factor is needed if the right result is to be achieved. work between different world ideologies and Al works for the protection of specific human in establishing the movement's credibility. Present None of that caution means that Al is cold or political groupings. It does not support or oppose rights that apply to all people. Social and cultural practice excludes funding from national govern- unfeeling. Exactly the opposite. Al is a move- governments or political systems. Nor does it differences in the world do not invalidate these ments for section budgets and the international ment that cares deeply about people. necessarily support or oppose the views of the rights: they transcend the divisions of nationality, budget. prisoners whose rights it seeks to protect. Al's race, culture, religion and politics. These prin- Local self-sufficiency is another element in exclusive emphasis on human rights — especially Al is participatory ciples are the internationally recognized hwnan demonstrating Al's financial independence. If at a time when human rights issues are deeply Al members participate directly in the work: rights that governments in all parts of the world Al is to be seen as an -international concern have acknowledged and that are part of the heri- politicized — is not always understood by govern- they make the movement's policy, raise the growing out of the local soil", the search for local tage of the world's cultures. Even if legal codes ments and the public or by Al members. Nor is it money and carry Al's message to governments funds must be part of that. and procedures vary from country to country understood by political groups that try to make and the public. For the "lady next door", Al is and culture to culture, certain fundamental ideas use of Al and its information. Sometimes the fact the group member in her street. It is also the remain common—the enduring values of justice, that opposition groups use AI information in Al is practical members who create Al's image with governments. fairness, compassion and humanity. their campaigns may give the impression that AI The practical nature of AI's work must be clear Most high-level Al missions, in reporting back, itself offers a platform to such groups. But AI in all publicity and recruiting material. This not have noted the impact that the thousands of makes every effort to counteract this impression. only reinforces the non-partisan nature of Al's letters had made on senior government officials. A specialized role Al's impartiality also involves fair play with concern but also makes it clear that AI is seeking Each letter and their cumulative effect had One thing more than any other gives Al its governments. It needs to be open with govern- activist supporters. spoken for AI and shaped the government's view special character: its mandate. ments about the nature of the movement which The fact that the core of Al's activity is direct, of the movement. Al is not concerned with all human rights, but combines both high-level diplomatic initiatives personal work for other people is an important is a human rights movement because it works in asid grass roots campaigning. Governments need factor in mobilizing support from others. Al is constructive the field of human rights. To avoid confusion, AI to understand that they can expect both sorts of Al is a watchdog, investigating and reporting members must always make clear exactly what approaches from AI. Al is effective human rights abuses, but the underlying purpose Al does: Al is accurate AI does not claim credit; it does not know all the of its work is constructive. It is against imprison- factors that lead to the release of a prisoner of ment of people for their beliefs, because it is it seeks the release of all prisoners of con- for Al is a movement that combines personal initiative conscience. Experience inevitably leads AI to be the right to freedom of conscience without threat science by thousands of people with a need for strict modest when it compares its efforts with the of arrest and detention. It is it works for fair and prompt trials for all for freedom from accuracy in all its information and communi- scale of political imprisonment, torture and the torture. It is against cruel treatment and executions political prisoners cations. Accuracy is not only a question of facts. death penalty throughout the world. Nevertheless, because it isfor the dignity of the human person.

General Advice on Action 43 Chapter 8 Relations with terences and does not issue public statements or publications with other bodies. International It should always be explained to other Organizations organizations that A l's policy of not undertaking joint activities is in order to protect the in Al groups and members sometimes want to seek dependent nature of A I and does not reflect eneral vice on ction help or advice from other international organ- either approval or disapproval of their aims or izations. All letters to any international body policies. must go through the International Secretariat. The general advice and suggestions for action in Al may. of course, give external intOrmation concerned or given to people who are not A 1 The secretariat is in regular contact with a wide this chapter apply to all aspects of AI's work. to other organizations and may send speakers to members. range of other international organizations; to Case work is discussed more fully in Chapter 9. their events (other than news conferences ): but Letters from the International Secretariat, avoid confusion, groups should not write to them The following items are relevant to all Al normally Al does not sign resolutions or endorse even if they do not contain confidential in- direct. Among the many international bodies to members: conclusions or recommendations jointly with formation, are themselves INTERNAL docu - which this applies are: the United Nations, any other organization, or organize joint public merits. They should not be circulated outside the UNESCO and all United Nations agencies, security meetings or appeals. membership. regional bodies such as the Inter-American Com- Al's position on joint activities often needs to coordination of activities mission on Human Rights of the Organization of EXTERNAL documents may be used by be explained to exile organizations or individual American States, the International Committee relations with international organizations anyone. They contain important information for exiles and refugees as they often give Al valuable of the Red Cross, the International Commission relations with exile and other organizations sections, groups, the public and other organ- information and support its work and may, from of Jurists. the International Association of izations. They may be reproduced, translated, time to time, ask Al to support their own demon- Democratic Lawyers, the International Con- and freely circulated. strations and appeals. Most can appreciate and Many of the subsequent items are relevant to Al federation of Free Trade Unions. the World Every prisoner dossier issued by the Inter- accept Al's policy especially if it applies con- sections or coordination groups and, wherever Confederation of Labour, the International national Secretariat includes detailed security sistently to all other bodies. necessary, directions have been given on the Labour Office, the International Federation of advice in the general instructions which should In addition to respecting Al's general policy need to consult the International Secretariat or Journalists and the International Press Institute. be observed by Al members. See Working on relations with other organizations, particular your section. A number of these organizations now redirect all Rule 56. care needs to be exercised in contacting or No AI group is expected to undertake all the Al group letters to the International Secretariat; working with refugee or exile groups. They are activities suggested in the following pages. Each therefore, all contact with them should go through frequently infiltrated by hostile informers. See group must plan its activities within the overall the secretariat. See Chapter 12 and the Working Working Rule 18. framework of its section. Chapter 9 outlines the Rule 17. particular responsibilities which each group is Coordinating Activities expected to fulfil in addition to those indicated in Al activities need teamwork. No one at any level What is Pressure? this chapter. of the movement works in isolation. The sensi- Relations with other Al protects and frees prisoners of conscience by tive nature of the work makes proper communi- Organizations continuous action on their behalf. These actions cation and coordination vital. Other organizations often support Al's activities. are effective because of the facts upon which AI sections and groups are required to send Security However, as an independent body with a narrow they are based and the ideals that inspire them. reports of their activities to the International mandate AI must be careful about how it co- But this alone is not pressure. Al members are expected to treat information Secretariat. The particular reporting require- operates with other organizations, especially in Pressure comes from the fact that these actions responsibly. Human beings may be placed at risk ments for groups are outlined in Chapter 9. any public or formal manner. The movement's never stop. Their influence continues to grow. if sensitive information is not handled with There are a number of Working Rules, included impartiality and independence must be protected. One letter to a Minister of Justice is not discretion. in Chapter I 3 of the handbook. Most are designed AI usually cooperates with other organizations pressure. All circulars issued by the International Secre- to ensure proper communication and coordination only to the extent of exchanging information. It A second letter is. tariat to sections, coordination groups or groups between groups, sections, the International does not cooperate formally or publicly with Two letters from one person every week create are marked either INTERNAL (for AI members Secretariat and the International Executive other bodies. For example, it does not organize a little more pressure; two letters from a few only) or EXTERNAL (for general distribution). Committee. joint public meetings or send joint missions to people every day create still more. INTERNAL documents are for circulation to All AI members and workers are expected to countries. Any exceptions to this rule must be This may be enough to tackle a simple problem. Al members only. They must be carefully stored. consult their immediate colleagues when plan- decided by a section's executive board or by the But it is not likely to be enough to free prisoners They contain recommendations for action and ning any activities so that they appropriate International Executive Committee. Such excep- of conscience. information for members. Under no circum- people (at the national and international levels) tions are not common and have usually involved Pressure to free prisoners of conscience can stances should INTERNAL documents be know about new projects well in advance, thus collaboration on general human rights education involve all of the following: given to journalists, government officials or other avoiding unnecessary confusion and ensuring programs or broad themes. As a matter of policy, organizations, sent to contacts within the country the best use of information. — sending hundreds of postcards and letters Al does not hold demonstrations or news con- to the foreign government; 44 General Advice on Action General Advice on Action 45

distributing leaflets at trade fairs: if it is safe to mention Al, briefly state its same age group, religion or other category, can planning such a delegation in order to avoid issuing special appeals signed by prominent aims and point out its policy of indepen- be an effective type of action. individuals; dence and impartiality. (To describe Al you confusion and ensure the visit to the embassy Appeals by Prominent People. Try approach- would be in the prisoner's best interests (the --- publishing frequent reports on the human can write: "an independent. worldwide move- ing prominent public figures for support. A rights violations by the governments concerned. ment that works for the release of all prisoners section will consult the International Secre- statement signed by a number of outstanding of conscience. fair trials for political prisoners tariat if necessary). Your section and the Inter- people can have a significant impact on public Every group and section has to create this and the abolition of torture and the death national Secretariat should get a report on each opinion. The statement and the signatures can. volume of pressure on behalf of the prisoners penalty-. ) Always make sure that it is safe to such visit. with the signatories' permission, be sent to the and groups of prisoners on whose behalf they mention AI: the recommended actions A circular giving advice on embassy visits has authorities and simultaneously released to the are working. They must try every possible indicate if it is not. been sent by the International Secretariat to all means of reminding governments of their obli- news media in your country (through your sections and may be consulted by AI groups in gation to protect the human rights of their section press officer). Appeals from individuals each country. Like other circulars it is avail- citizens. who are respected by, or sympathetic to, the able from your section or the International Pressure is not only a matter of quantity. A AMNESTY government in question are likely to be especially Secretariat . influential. single statement by a leading figure can some- Delegations to visiting officials. When times have as much effect as a petition. On the Appeals and Resolutions by Institutions. representatives of other countries travel abroad other hand a delegation of school children to WI a ••• •• • m• • Official statements by the governing bodies of make arrangements to meet them. This can be an embassy may receive greater publicity. Each universities, medical associations, and other done through their embassies or trade corn- form of action has a particular effect; the com- institutions can have a great impact. Groups may missions. Your section office must be consulted approach several similar institutions in their bined result is pressure. t * first to ensure proper coordination. A small AI members have learned from experience country to make appeals on their prisoner's group of AI members (perhaps with a distin- behalf. However, they must consult their section that this pressure needs to be carefully planned guished person sympathetic to Al work) can and may have to be sustained for years. To do before doing so. See Working Rule 14. meet the visitor, ask questions about his or her this requires imagination and great deter- government's policy on human rights and why it mination. Delegations has not replied to letters about prisoners. The A direct personal intercession on behalf of visiting official may prove more helpful than the prisoners ( visiting an embassy, for example) can resident ambassador. Any failure on his or her Letters sagenta be more useful than a letter of appeal, although part to keep a promise made to the delegation Letter writing is the most basic of all Al activ- such actions cannot have the sustained impact of should be formally brought to the attention of the ities. Advice on this technique in case work is a stream of letters and petitions. Both techniques government concerned. in Chapter 9 and sample letters are in Chapter must be used. See Working 10. A number of points should always be Rule 14. Visits to embassies. borne in mind whenever letters are sent to gov- Many groups visit Contacting elected representatives. Writing embassies regularly or arrange for other people ernrnent officials: to and visiting your elected representatives can to do so. This is always done in consultation with letters should be firm but courteous; be very helpful. You can ask them to write letters An early Al newsletter: the cover shows a postcard returned their section and country coordinator or co- from prison to Al member stamped, "return to sender as on behalf of the prisoners whose cases your use the correct form of address and a polite an addressee is free". ordination group. Embassy delegations should group is working on. You can ask them to raise style (see Chapter 10); be small — about three people — and each the case with your own government, especially if avoid comments that might be regarded as Appeals person should be fully briefed on the case. It is a the question of providing asylum is involved. Try politically motivated. Many governments are good idea for each person to Appeals can reinforce the impact of individual raise specific to arrange a meeting with your national, regional sensitive to what they regard as "interference questions: one person can ask about the letters. There are at least four types of appeal you or local representatives, in consultation with in the internal affairs of the state", and may be prisoner's health, another about mail restric- can use. As a general rule, an appeal should be your section and coordination group as appro- only too ready to dismiss Al as a political tions, another about legal difficulties, and so launched after consultation with the section priate. Take along the latest AI publications. conspiracy; forth. It is important to have a request to make of office. Your group should make a specific request in any emphasize personal concern for the the ambassador: Will s/he forward a letter to the General Petitions. A brief statement such meeting. For example, will the repre- prisoner and the country's international repu- government? Will s/he make inquiries about the addressed to the head of state in question can be sentative raise your group's cases with the tation. Stress positive aspects — respect for prisoner? Such requests can be made at the end signed by thousands of people (giving their Foreign Minister to see what further pressure the constitution and judicial process -- so as names, addresses and occupations) and formally of the interview and will provide a basis for can be applied for their release? Will he or she to encourage a response; presented to the ambassador for forwarding to continuing discussion. raise human rights questions when meeting repre- -- refer to the Universal Declaration of Human the head of state. If the ambassador contradicts AI information, sentatives from other countries? s/he should be asked to substantiate this denial Rights or the International Covenant on Civil Appeals by Professional Category or Records of these visits should be kept for and Political Rights or the country's consti- Grouping. A petition signed by people from the — are there official reports available? Be firm future reference and copies sent to your section tution, if appropriate; same profession as the prisoner, or from the about obtaining the facts. office. Follow up with letters and further visits. Always consult your section office before See Working Rule 14. 46 General Advice On Action General Advice on Action 47

Public Actions 111(1 after. Particularly good speeches may he reproduced or quoted in leaflets, thus keeping the Symbolic Actions Write to a performer who lives in the area and ask if he or she would give a concert for A I groups need public support. F k cry group ha, meeting "alive- long after it is over. Prisoner, (II conscience can he seen as symhols Al. Can the group meet him or her to discuss the idea? to get local publicity about its cases and cam Demonstrations. Obtain permission from the ol lice thought and belief. Oben their plight Approach the manager of a local cinema. paigns. It needs people and comnlunity organ police for a march to one or more embassies or to underlines the importance of the right to freedom What films are going to izations to help circulate pennons. to respond to a puhlic square. Always consult your section in x ession. rhe jailers and executioners he shown in the coming season? Can there be an Al benefit performance fund raising appeals and cart-) A Is message to a advance. At an embassy. a delegation can symbolize the unlimited state power. physical on an opening night? wide audience. Most actions suggested in this deliver appeals Or messages to the ambassador hrutality and repression. handbook will help huild this support; the or, hy appointment. discuss prisoner cases. Often Contact the directors of the local theatre. Will f011owing are aimed at reaching the general Al groups with adopted prisoners in the same they put on a play by an imprisoned writer or a public. country .join together to present a collective play about political imprisonment'? Will they Public actions require carehll preparation. appeal on behalf of all a(h)pted prisoners in that have a special performance in honour of prisoners Sonie members of your group ma), already be country. of conscience? familiar with these methods. Al section offices Always think of the possihilities for mass Is there a local "street theatre- troupe in your and experienced groups may also be able to give media coverage: set up a mock prison cage. read area? Would they be interested in using AI ad' ice and help. out the names of the prisoners for radio and material to perform a mime at street corners or in Assign responsibility fig organiiing the action television. Consult your section press officer in parks? Prepare leaflets for passers-by highlight to a 1Norking committee. Some people should be advance. ing the cases on which your group is working. Take photographs of the event and write a short responsible for relations with outside guests or Marches are a good way of drawing attention speakers, some for making arrangements if police to the plight of prisoners. However, some groups feature article on it for local magazines. permission is required and someone for dealing do not do this lest they antagonize the com- Poetry readings or readings from the works of with the news media (press officer). Others may munity. Common sense must be used here as in imprisoned writers are often popular and can easily be linked to appeals for the release of be responsible for placards and leaflets. or for all activities. When in doubt, consult your 1 fUnd raising during the actions. section. prisoners of conscience. The committee as a whole should decide on policy such as the wording of placards, and Al's worldwide petition against torture. Target Sector Work relations with local authorities. If the committee amnesty AI groups can use existing social institutions to anticipates any difficulties with the police, international build pressure for the international protection of crowds. Or hecklers, it should work out what its human rights. Four examples are given reactions and policy should be beforehand. This below. International Appeal ALL SUCH APPROACHES AND ACTI- prevents petty arguments developing in the com- to the President of the General Assembly mittee at a time when a unified response is of the United Nations VITIES SHOULD BE PROPERLY COOR- needed. DINATED -- No one >hall be Always bear in mind that Al must not act as a subieited to torture Symbolic actions can be organized to express if you are contacting a local organization, ask OR to rue/ inhurn,in these forces operating in society today. Often if their executive is already co-sponsor of a demonstration or public meeting or degradoig treatment in touch with the with any other organization. See Working or punishment An u this -living poetry- can succeed in rousing AI section in your country; NT‘ERSAE OklAR • fl(”4 iF people when other, more conventional, efforts Rule 18. HUMAN ItICHTS inform the section office of all contacts Films. Organize a film show on political have failed. established: Wr, the undersigned, Wearing badges, displaying banners, holding imprisonment. Follow with a short talk describ- inform other Al groups in your own city or ,all upon the General Assembly of the United Nations vigils and torchlight processions, holding art ing what Al is doing. Allow time for discussion town. See Working Rule 14. and do not forget to take a collection. Suggest a to outlaw exhibitions, observing minutes of silence, arrang- ing symbolic funerals or prayer meetings. are all follow-up to keep people involved. You can the torture ot prisoners throughout the world Trade Unions. Many trade unions have sup- arrange a film show and discussion almost any- ways of mobilizing people to campaign for ported AI by circulating petitions, by passing human rights. With proper press coverage and where in schools, churches, public meeting 1 A resolutions, by inviting AI representatives to 4C14,, the release of an eloquent public statement, places or private homes. They are one of the best Z425 24 speak at their meetings and congresses and by ways to raise funds, attract new members and symbolic actions can be extremely effective, making donations. The International Secretariat arouse public interest. even if they last only a short time. issues a regular Trade Union Bulletin contain- Public meetings. invite well-known individuals On the occasion of the twenty-fifth Annlversary ing information on workers and trade unionists in ot the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, prison. Some sections publish similar bulletins. (journalists, writers, professors, members of we present this Appeal on behalf of more than Performances parliament) to address a public meeting on an one million signatones m eighty-five nations Asking trade unions for help is usually quite Plays and concerts are an excellent way of giving issue such as torture. political imprisonment or simple. Write to the General Secretary of the Al's work a high profile and building practical local trades council and either arrange to visit the death penalty. Arrange press coverage before support. one of their meetings to introduce Al or invite 48 General Advice on Action General Advice on Action 49

One of their representatives to your next group gates to public meetings organized by your Human rights education: In some countries questions about human rights with them. You meeting. If you are responsible for the adoption group. Al has developed ways of contributing to local should also try to ensure that your own of a trade unionist prisoner, this is essential. Relief: The congregation can contribute to and national education programs. Special materials government is briefed about Al's concerns Al groups can ask a trade union for: special fund-raising programs to provide relief for schools have been prepared and are used by before foreign dignitaries visit your country. Action assistance: The union can publish an for adopted prisoners or support for Al's work in teachers in a range of courses. Information: Politicians can keep you in- appeal or circulate a petition on behalf of parti- general. Your group can: formed about trade and cultural agreements with cular prisoners, or send delegates to support Diplomatic assistance: The congregation may contact sympathetic teachers, teachers unions other countries. They can keep you informed public actions or speak at meetings. Groups send delegations to meet foreign ambassadors; it AI or educational leaders to discuss the need for about forthcoming visits and exchanges and may in small sections should make a point of coordin- can write to the home government; it can ask human rights education among young people know some of the people involved. They can also ating these activities: it may be possible to get fellow congregations in other countries to act on to increase respect for fundamental freedoms. give you advice and information about countries trade union support for a wide range of cases. behalf of particular prisoners. (A small kit could be prepared, to be spon- your group is dealing with. Advice: The union can give advice on trade Publicity: The congregation may circulate or sored or distributed by the educational Lobbying: Contact your section office to find union structures in your country and in others reprint AI material for their members. It may be authorities.); out how it organizes lobbying and whether there which may help you in your case work. worthwhile preparing special materials suitable contact producers of television educational is someone on the board responsible for relations Diplomatic intervention: The union may be for sermons or religious publications. Congre- programs in your area, suggesting a series of with your national government. He or she may willing to make representations on behalf of gations may be willing to let you use their own programs on human rights and the work of have tbnried links with government and opposition individual prisoners with the ambassador of the duplicating equipment, as well as other facilities. AI; parties, as well as with politicians willing to help country concerned. It may urge elected repre- contact schools or educational authorities to Al on individual cases or various issues. In some sentatives in your country to take an interest in Educational institutions. Schools, colleges discuss the circulation of leaflets and infbr- sections there are parliamentary groups who can such cases. And it can ask unions in other and universities can do a lot to publicize Al's mation in local schools, or possibilities for adv ise. activities, broaden awareness of human rights countries to take similar initiatives. Remember classroom talks about Al; Local work: to coordinate all such activities with your section issues and give practical help to Al's cam- encourage younger school children to help Local political parties can be asked to give a office or coordination group. paigns. Try these ideas: AI by painting greetings cards or sending talk to Al groups about their policy on human Finance: The union may give money for Organization and publicity: Encourage AI postcards to prisoners. rights issues. They may be prepared to support relief, for telegrams or for AI's work in general. If membership in local schools, colleges and uni- Political parties. AI groups often contact AI initiatives on behalf of prisoners of you approach unions for donations, make sure versities — many now have their own AI groups; political parties in the course of their work, conscience. Keep these local parties in- that you are well briefed on send members of your group to speak at AI policy and that particularly when adopted prisoners are members formed about AI activities in the area and ask you are not duplicating with similar requests student societies or meetings; of political parties with connections abroad. local political groups to keep you intbrmed from Al to the same union. include university and college students, staff Appeals from political leaders or parties should about their meetings -- especially if matters Even if your group is not dealing with the cases members, staff associations and student be encouraged, especially if they come from of concern to AI might arise: of imprisoned trade unionists, it is worthwhile societies on your mailing list (if there is those sympathetic to the politics of the imprison- Members of your group can ask to speak to exploring possibilities for local cooperation —by no group at the university or college); ing government. the local branch of a political party. Ask the addressing trade union meetings, circulating AI ask if you can use the student printing press to Some suggestions: branch to subscribe to the materials, and requesting financial support or reduce costs for leaflets and publications. Al Newsletter and Delegates from several political publications. material assistance. Many unions, for example, Pressure: A local school, college or university Action: parties may be willing to present appeals and operate their own low-cost printing presses and group can: AI deals with matters that concern politicians petitions to embassies. An appeal from leading may be willing to print AI literature; many are send letters to foreign governments signed by of all shades of opinion; all are likely, therefore, members of political parties is often particularly prepared to distribute AI material to their distinguished members of the university; to lend the movement a sympathetic ear. But all influential. Prisoners' cases can be raised at members. circulate mass petitions on behalf of AI members should be cautious lest certain party congresses and conferences and resolutions prisoners of conscience or as partof major AI political groups use AI for their own ends. campaigns for signature by staff and students; passed in support of general campaigns. Groups should therefore take care that they are Religious bodies. Many religious bodies publicize the Prisoners of the Month cases in Diplomatic assistance: Political parties seen to be non-partisan and guard AI's impartiality. support AI and are of great help in campaigns the student newspapers; sometimes send high-level missions to other A broad base of support for Al's objectives from countries for talks with the government. Dele- and case work. Groups should make every effort organize "teach-ins" on human rights issues; political parties of all persuasions is essential if to get the support of local religious leaders. If organize demonstrations, public meetings gates should be asked to raise the cases of the movement is to have sustained credibility at prisoners of conscience during their visit. Similarly, your group is responsible for the adoption of a and symbolic public actions on behalf of home and abroad. Does every member of parlia- victim of religious persecution, this is essential. prisoners; when other countries' leaders visit your country, ment in your country receive the Amnesty Inter- Ask for help with: hold a -Human Rights Week"; try to brief politicians so that they can raise national Newsletter? Action assistance: Special services can be give AI briefings to delegations from their held to mobilize support for prisoners of con- college or university when they visit foreign science. Congregations can circulate petitions countries and ask them to inquire on behalf of and Urgent Action appeals; they can send dele- particular prisoners. Case Work 51

Chapter 9 have received to their letters. Even it the letters .etters to the International Secretariat should do not appear to contain any useful infOrmation, be addressed to the relevant department and they can he important to the Research Depart- CLEARLY MARKED WITH THE GROUP'S ment Copies should also he sent to the section or NUMBER AND THE NAME AND COLIN relevant coordination group. In particular. the TRY OF THE PRISONER CONCERNED International Secretariat needs to have copies of this will help to avoid delay. If groups are not ase r all letters from prisoners and their families and sure which department to write to. they should any photographs of prisoners and prisons groups contact their section headquarters. Where an may receive. The Research Department will urgent response is needed. this should he deal ly Responsibilities of information. Normally all confidential infor advise groups whether and in what ways such indicated in the letter. mation is noted on the specific sheet tor this material can be made public or used in ex Although English, French and Spanish are the an Al Group purpose in the prisoner dossier In general, hibitions illustrating A is work. A central library three official languages of the organization, staff confidential material should not he revealed of all audio-visual material is kept by the are recruited internationally and English is the Even,' AI group takes on responsibilities when it to any person outside the group. International Secretariat. working language of the International Secre- is formed and recognized by its section (or by the Please do not give out more information The Research Department will also send to tariat. Groups should, wherever possible, send International Secretariat in countries where about the prisoner case than is necessary in the group any new information or material that is letters and reports to the Research Department there are no sections). Each group must work each instance. received by the International Secretariat. in English; materials in French and Spanish will consistently on behalf of the individual prisoners often need to be sent for translation and thereThre whose cases are assigned to it and it must Please take care in working with and when be delayed. participate in campaigning, fund-raising and giving or receiving information from political International Copies of all letters from the International other activities. The group must also ensure that refugees or exile organizations. Their help Secretariat to local groups are sent auto- can often be of benefit to your work, but you Secretariat liaison with it takes no action that might in any way harm or matically to the section and coordination group should remember that such groups are often endanger the prisoners or their families or that local Al groups for their information. infiltrated by hostile intelligence agents. Do might damage Al's reputation and hinder its Local groups are usually in touch with the Although work on an individual case may be work. not adopt their suggestions for action without Executive Assistants in the Research Depart- delegated by a group to a sub-group or to an prior consultation with the relevant coordin- Security: Groups are entrusted with the respon- ment. Groups may also have contacts with the individual member, the International Secretariat ator or the Research Department. sible handling of information they receive. Every Campaign and Membership Department, which will usually send information and correspon- prisoner dossier contains the following advice: See Working Rules 18, 56 and 58. is responsible for the allocation of cases, the dence to the official address of the group which is maintenance of release records, and the pro- sent to the secretariat by the section head- Please keep all information about prisoner Reporting: Groups must report every six vision of general guidance to groups, particularly quarters. Changes of address should be notified cases in a secure place such as a locked filing months on their activities via their section (or to groups in countries where there is no section. to the section and the relevant coordination cabinet. the International Secretariat direct in countries The Research Department includes all avail- groups immediately. The group`s address should If any prisoner dossier or its contents is lost where there are no Al sections). Each group is able information on cases in the case sheet, and be as permanent as possible in order to avoid or stolen, immediately inform both the section part of a team effort, and it is essential that the will automatically inform groups if further infor- delays or confusion. headquarters and the International Secre- activities of all parts of the organization be mation is obtained. There is therefore no need for tariat Campaign and Membership Depart- properly coordinated. Even if groups have not groups to write to the Research Department to ment. Please explain in detail the circum- received any positive replies to their approaches, request further intbrmation. If groups do have a stances under which the information was the Research Department needs to know the problem or query relating to a particular case, or Coordination stolen and the steps taken to retrieve it. detail of the activities undertaken both so that it would like suggestions for further action. they The address of the coordinator or coordination can assess Al's profile on a country and on Please do not give any prisoner dossier or its should first approach the relevant coordination group in your section responsible for dealing with individual cases and so that it can suggest other contents to any person who is not a member group or their section headquarters. If these are activities on behalf of prisoners in a particular activities or develop new approaches. Group of the group. Do not photocopy the contents unable to help, the matter will be referred to the country is included in the prisoner dossier. reports can help the section, coordination group of this dossier for any person who is not a relevant department at the International Secre- Copies of all correspondence from the Inter- and the Research Department to evaluate member of the group. AI tariat. All inquiries about individual prisoners or national Secretariat to each group are sent to the strategies and techniques on different countries. countries will be directed to the Research Depart- If you wish to give information to other relevant coordination group in the section. If A special form is provided either by the section or ment. The Research Department is responsible persons, organizations or journalists, the groups have any inquiries or need further sugges- the International Secretariat for these regular for preparing case sheets, background papers material should be written out separately and tions for activities, they should always contact reports. and general campaign documents. The Exe- strict care taken to prevent the misuse of the coordinator or coordination group in the first As well as the six-monthly reports, groups cutive Assistants, who work closely with re- confidential material. instance. Groups should write directly to the must inform the Research Department immedi- searchers on particular countries or regions, are International Secretariat only if there is no Please observe closely the distinction ately about any new developments in their cases responsible for most of the correspondence appropriate coordinator or coordination group in between confidential and non-confidential and send copies of any government replies they between the Research Department and groups. their section. 52 Case Work Case Work 53

detention of a prisoner of conscience is in itself a without trial within a reasonable time or any trial authorities to make inquiries as to the prisoner's violation of the Universal Declaration of Human procedures relating to such prisoners that do not whereabouts or, depending on the circum- Rights, Al works tOr the prisoner's immediate contOrm to internationally recognized norms." stances, to acknowledge the arrest. Al normally and unconditional release. n these cases the group is expected to protest treats "disappearances" as investigation cases to the authorities and call for the prisoner to be until more information is received. Once the Investigation cases brought to trial. Investigation cases in this individual's detention is acknowledged or Al category may not be eligible for adoption and There are two different kinds of investigation receives information that the person is in custody. case. In the first category. Al investigates the therefore the status of the case will remain the International Secretariat reviews the case to cases of detained individuals when it believes investigation. Clear instructions will always be establish whether it should have adoption or that they are likely to be PRISONERS OF given in the prisoner dossier for activities to be investigation status. CON SC I E NC E, but where more information is undertaken by groups. needed to be sure of this. Groups will be asked to Prisoner Dossiers try to obtain this further information. In their Double and Triple Adoptions Every group receives a prisoner dossier for each inquiries to governments and in all other corres- In some adoption cases, two or three groups case assigned to it. The file contains the following: pondence groups must make it clear that they are work on behalf of one case where this is felt to he not appealing for the release of the prisoner but in the interests of the prisoner. This is called case sheet are seeking further information. When the case "double adoption'. or "triple adoption". When explanatory note on "Status of Case" Ge%wrens sheet recommends that the case be publicized. more than one group is involved, the names and general instructions leaflet Ifistfu" any public statements should indicate that AI is addresses of all groups working on the particular recommended case action investigating the case only. case are included in the prisoner dossier. Each list of government authoriles At a later stage, if sufficient information is group should keep the other group or groups background materials informed of its activities so that efforts can be obtained to ascertain that the person is a prisoner and where appropriate: of conscience or if no satisfactory information is coordinated and ideas and experiences shared. Groups may be asked to make it clear that they confidential information sheet tatertiaWOV provided by the government concerned to indi- relief action cate otherwise, the Research Department may are one of several working on the case when Every Al group receives a dossier on each case allocated to it. guidelines for double and triple adoptions. decide, on the basis of all available information, writing to the prisoner, the prisoner's family or to contacts. Sometimes only one of the adopting that the case should be changed to an adoption The case sheet contains any available personal groups will be asked to write to the family or case. It should be noted that the International details about the prisoner (age, profession, rela- other sensitive contacts. Instructions will be Council has decided that "the assertion by a tives, state of health); facts about the arrest, Selection of included in the prisoner dossier. as appropriate. government that a political prisoner has used or charge, trial and sentence and about the place Prisoner Cases advocated violence should not be binding on and conditions of imprisonment. It provides a Group cases The Research Department is responsible for Al." If further information indicates that the brief background to the arrest of the prisoner and AI may take up the cases of several prisoners at obtaining information about prisoners and for detained person is not a prisoner of conscience, details about the political or other circumstances. the same time (or a whole prison) and treat this as preparing prisoner dossiers for allocation to the case would be closed by the International The "status of case" explains the distinction AI a single case. This may be done, for example, if it groups. It seeks to ensure that all information is Secretariat. between an adoption and investigation case and Sometimes it may not be possible to obtain is thought unsafe to adopt or investigate the cases properly verified before recommending any the action to be taken for each. It also describes of individual prisoners or if it is believed that action. Following general guidelines such as the any further information about a case and the group cases and "disappearances". possibilities for group action may remain limited. action on behalf of all the prisoners will be a more definition in the Statute of the term "prisoner of The general instructions leaflet lists the kinds effective technique to secure their protection or conscience", each case is evaluated on its own The Research Department may decide to review of action which groups can take on behalf of release. Full details on such cases and the work merits. The prisoner dossier explains in each these cases where there have been no develop- prisoners. It gives advice on security. coordin- to be undertaken on their behalf are included in the instance why Al is taking action on the case. The ments after a reasonable period (such as two ation and reporting and general guidelines on prisoner dossier. prisoner dossier also indicates the "status" of the years) and to suspend investigation work. The activities. Research Department then continues to case which will be one of the following: The recommended case action sheet gives monitor the cases directly itself. "Disappearances" specific instructions for action on the particular People who are abducted for political reasons Adoption cases In the second category of investigation case, case. These instructions take precedence over AI adopts detained individuals when it believes AI takes up the cases of political prisoners (who and "disappear" are the victims of arbitrary the general instructions and may prohibit that they are PRISONERS OF CON- may not be eligible for adoption) who have been arrest and detention; many may face torture and groups from undertaking actions suggested SCIENCE — men and women detained for their detained for long periods without trial or sen- death. The authorities do not even acknowledge either in this handbook or in the general instruc- beliefs, colour, language, ethnic origin, sex or tenced on the basis of unfair trial procedures. their arrest. It is usually extremely difficult to tions booklet. religion, who have not used or advocated establish their whereabouts and, often, to know This policy is based on Al's opposition under The confidential information sheet is inclu- violence. The reasons for adoption in each case Article I b) of its Statute to the "detention of any whether they are still alive. ded only where necessary and may contain are included in the prisoner dossier. Since the prisoner of conscience or any political prisoner In such cases groups are advised to urge the advice or sensitive information such as the 54 Case Work Case Work 55

address of the tam il y. This information is not for hut others held in the same circumstances. It International Secretariat in countries without a publication or circulation; it is nut to he mentioned may not seem an important detail in itself but it section) ahout what to do with the prisoner Correspondence with in letters to government officials or released to will contribute to the accumulated information in dossier. The material contained in a prisoner government the press or given to anymie who is not a member the Research Department. dossier is confidential and must be handled with of the group. care. The group will therefore he advised to authorities The relief action sheet is not always included destroy the dossier or return it to the section for Care should be taken to ensure that letters reach in the prisoner dossier as it is quite usual for the the section archives. the most appropriate officials and that the style, relief needs of the prisoner and the family to In cases where the prisoner is released from language and content are effective. Detailed become known only after the group has started prison but is then sent into internal exile, served advice on letter writing and sample letters are making it inquiries. with a banning order, or faces trial, the group will given in Chapter 10. Hie guidelines for douhle and triple adoption be inffirmed of the prisoner's change of circum- The prisoner dossier provides instructions for are included in any prisoner dossier assigned to stances hut will be expected to continue working letter writing. as well as a list of the names and more than one group. They provide advice about on behalf of the prisoner. as an adoption or addresses of individuals or government authorities how groups should cooperate together. investigation case. to whom groups should write. Instructions will be given as to whether letters should be written All prisoner dossiers give a brief account of the Once a case has been closed by the International political situation in the country concerned and Secretariat, the group can apply to its section for on AI stationery or from private addresses and which language should be used. Letters to the of the laws under which the prisoner is detained. another prisoner dossier or to the International In manN cases the Research Department pro- Secretariat in countries where the section has not authorities in their own language or the main second language of the country may be most vides a detailed background paper on the country yet taken over responsibility for case allocation or on a particular group of prisoners. Suggestions or where no section exists. effective. Advice on this point is given in the tbr further reading are often given. Group Recommended Case Action in the prisoner dossier. members should make every effort to familiarize Letters should be written to a wide spectrum of' themselves not only with the intbrmation provided officials. Extensive lists of addresses and names by the International Secretariat. the coordination of officials are provided by the International group and the section, hut also with the history Aftercare Secretariat. and culture of the countries concerned so that In some cases. after a prisoner is released, there Groups can also send letters to ambassadors they are able to write inffirmed and therefore From Al's archives—a letter from a released prisoner of con- is still a need for assistance from an Al group. in their own country: these contacts can often science. The letter states: "To my joyfulness! I'm here in my more effective letters. home. I was released on last 8th Tuesday by parole. Just I can- The Research Department will decide whether enable a group to keep up a constant corres- not remember adequate words to describe my sense of feeling, pondence with the government. The amount of information reaching the Inter- such assistance is appropriate and will change only I can tell you with my confidence that during the long time Letters should be sent to governments regularly national Secretariat about individual prisoners of my servitude I was so much encouraged by your Amnesty the status of the case from one of adoption or International members around the world, and I have had an to sustain the pressure: for example, when the varies considerably. In some cases, such as those investigation to one of aftercare. The group will unexpected chance to Imakel acquaintance with so many celeb- group receives a new case or further news about a of well known politicians or writers, full bio- rities to make good friends each other-and I shall not forget be asked to continue specified activities. After- prisoner, when a partial amnesty has been graphical details will be available. In other cases those touching experiences in my career; I must thanking for care activities focus on humanitarian aid to the you again." announced, on Human Rights Day ( 10 Decem- an AI mission may have visited the country and prisoner, for example, sending relief payments ber), during Al's Prisoners of Conscience Week observed their trial. More often, however, very and keeping up correspondence with the prisoner every year, on national holidays and religious little is known about the prisoner; he or she may and his or her family. festivals, on the President's birthday, and so on. be held incommunicado in an isolated prison. The duration of aftercare work is fixed at six Closure of cases Some groups write as often as once a week; all Groups should try to obtain fuller information in months, although the International Secretariat Once a prisoner dossier has been assigned to a members of the group should try to write once a accordance with the suggestions in the prisoner may recommend that this period be extended or group, the group must work on behalf of the case month. Follow-up letters should be written if dossier. shortened if circumstances make this necessary until the prisoner is released or the case is closed replies are not received after a reasonable time. and appropriate. The Research Department includes in each by the International Secretariat. It is important to exert pressure from every case sheet all available information on the case. If a prisoner is released and there is no need for While a group is working on an aftercare case, quarter, and therefore, in addition to letters from It also informs all relevant groups if it obtains further action, the Research Department will it should submit six-monthly reports to its group members, the group should involve friends further information about prisoner cases. notify the group on special "Closure of Case" section, coordination group and the International and important local personalities in writing in Groups do not therefore have to write to the notepaper. This is the official confirmation of the Secretariat. If there is any new information about their own names to the authorities. Local organ- International Secretariat for more information; if closure of the case. If there is a possibility that the person's situation, this information should be izations (such as trade unions, social insti- it is available, it will be sent to groups auto- the prisoner may be arrested again the case will checked with the Research Department before tutions and professional associations) should be matically. The groups themselves should be closed but the group will be asked to keep the any action is taken. Groups should also continue asked to appeal to the relevant authorities. The immediately pass on any news they receive in the prisoner dossier. If this is not likely, the group to send the Research Department copies of any groups should provide addresses and details of course of their work. Such information may will receive instructions from its section head- correspondence received from the family or the the case as well as particularly important dates affect not only the prisoners they are working for quarters or coordination group (or from the released prisoner. for appeals. 56 Case Work Case Work 57

Many groups never receive replies to their These contacts may provide a useful oppor- further information has been obtained. But if letters either from the foreign government or tunity to arrange an Al deputation to an embassy. publicity is recommended, groups should make from the prisoner. A ltlmugh this can he dis Groups should always consult with their co- every effort to carry out a sustained campaign on couraging and frustrating, it is not a sign that ordination group and section office first. These the prisoner's behalf letters are ineffective. Groups must keep on deputations are often most effective when they A Press Officers Manual has been sent by the writing: it is an essential part of the constant are organized nationally, involving repre- International Secretariat to all sections and press collective pressure. Letter writing must he a sentations on behalf of a number of AI groups officers and may be helpful to local groups. The regular and continuous activity. so that govern- with prisoners in the same country. Groups basic advice on publicity is contained in Chapter ments receive constant reminders that the prisoners should also inform the Research Department of 7 of this handbook. are not forgotten and that there is international plans to visit an embassy. Prepare a short article on the work of your concern about their situation. Contact should also be made with embassies group and highlight the prisoner case. Always It is important not to abuse the foreign govern- on the occasion of visits from government give readers an address to which appeals can be ment or to use political jargon in letters. Letters officials, or to coincide with international sent on behalf of the prisoner and include your should always be moderate and reasonable in cultural events, after consultation with the co- group's telephone number or address. Many tone; offensive language may result in harm to ordination group or section. areas now have local radio and television the prisoner. Letters should not include sub- Groups should bear in mind that Al does not stations which are willing to report activities A Buddhist monk, member of a local Al group, talks to a meet- jective judgments on the situation in the prisoner's support or oppose boycotts of any kind but may ing of students during Prisoners of Conscience Week. Groups taking place in the locality. Invite them to the help carry Al's campaigns to an ever growing public. country. It is better to write well informed letters use a wide range of opportunities to raise its public events your group organizes and talk to which relate to the public image of the govern- concerns with the relevant government and to them about the cases you are working on. workers). Groups should contact the appropriate ment internally and internationally. Many raise public awareness about human rights issues. Use every possible event to get publicity: national body in their own countries and try to governments are anxious to appear fair and national days, official birthdays, religious festi- involve it in protests against the imprisonment of reasonable. It is important, if possible, to stress a Publicity and vals, as well as the prisoner's birthday or the individuals concerned. Sometimes the organ- country's reputation for justice. and to show anniversary of the trial. This is a systematic way Press Relations ization can put the group in touch with its branch respect for its constitution and judicial pro- in which to build up the cumulative pressure of in the prisoner's country or make inquiries on the cedures. Reference should be made to human One of the main tools for exerting pressure on publicity on the prisoner's behalf. Try to prisoner's behalf. These approaches should only rights conventions and international standards behalf of prisoners of conscience is the use of persuade influential people living or working in be made after consulting the relevant coordination which the government has ratified; details will publicity. Usually, groups are asked to publicize your neighbourhood to support your campaigns, groups and the section office. Chapter 8 gives be provided in the prisoner dossier. the cases they are working on, but groups must remembering that appeals from people who clear guidelines on relations with international There have been striking examples of the remember that there are cases where a lot can be sympathize with the government will carry organizations and relations with exile bodies. All cumulative effect of letter writing in securing the accomplished by discreet efforts and that some greater weight with it than those from people who groups should follow these guidelines carefully. release of prisoners even though the letters were types of publicity may antagonize a government. are known to oppose it. See the Working Rules. never acknowledged. Sometimes the prisoner dossier will carry a The publicity campaign should be sustained: Letter writing advice and sample letters are warning not to publicize a prisoner's case: it may ensure that copies of publicity which you obtain included in Chapters 8 and 10. be that publicity would endanger him or her. It is in the media are sent to the relevant authorities. usually possible to publicize the cases of adopted Send copies of the news clippings to ambassadors prisoners of conscience; with investigation cases, for their comment and to the appropriate officials Correspondence with Correspondence and groups may be asked to avoid publicity until of the country concerned. meetings with See the Working Rules for general guidelines Al contacts on publicity activity. Names of contacts in the prisoner's country or government elsewhere who might be able to provide infor- representatives mation about the prisoner, the trial or the family, Approaches to other may be given in the prisoner dossier. Specific Groups should write to the local embassy, high instructions will be given about how to write to commission or other representative of the organizations and them and these should always be followed strictly prisoner's government accredited to their own institutions in the interests of the contact's safety and the country. General guidelines for this are given in safety of the prisoner and family. Groups are Chapter 8. Reference can be made where appro- General guidelines for approaching other organ- advised not to set about developing contacts priate to trading, cultural and diplomatic links izations and institutions are given in Chapter 8. themselves without prior consultation with the between the two countries. Groups are more Many prisoners have a trade or profession and Research Department as this could seriously likely to receive a reply from an embassy than sometimes these are represented by national or endanger the contact and may have a very from its government and should, therefore, be An AI stall at a local fair. Groups publicize their cases and get international organizations (for instance, steel- negative effect on Al's work on that country or public support. persistent in writing letters. workers, schoolteachers, journalists, agricultural for that prisoner. 58 Case Work

When it is possible to send relief, advice about Chapter 10 Correspondence with what to send and how to send it will be given in the prisoner the prisoner dossier. For example, it may be better to send money rather than parcels. Groups and family may also, in some sections, be able to apply to Prisoners usually welcome letters from groups, the section headquarters tbr relief funds when but the extent to which prisoners are allowed to they themselves have insufficient resources. e ers an ele ra s receive letters varies considerably. In some Groups should be sensitive to differences countries, prisoners are not allowed to receive between cultures and be sure that relief items will letters at all: in others, the number of letters they be useful and acceptable before sending them; Writing letters and telegrams is not difficult. Prime Ministers and government ministers can receive may be restricted. In some cases, the receiving large sums of money could be embar- They need not be long. You do not have to may be addressed as "Dear Sir", "Dear place of detention may not even be known to Al. rassing to families in poor neighbourhoods. It discuss complex political questions. All you Madam", or as "Dear Prime Minister", The prisoner dossier states whether it is possible is also important to remember that prisoners have to do is show your concern about prisoners Ambassadors should always be addressed as to write to the prisoner. When in doubt, groups or families should not become dependent on and make a simple request. Of course, anyone "Your Excellency". High Commissioners ( the should contact the appropriate coordination external support to maintain their standard of who wants to write longer or more sophisticated term used tbr the representative of one country to group or the Research Department. living. letters is welcome to. Many sections produce another within the ('ommonwealth of Nations) The prisoner dossier will also give the name All details on the sending of relief are strictly detailed letter writing guides. but the following should also be addressed as "Your Excellency" and address of the prisoner's family where these confidential and for use within Al only. Govern- basic advice may be helpful. On the envelope you should write "His/Her are known and advice about how to contact ment authorities frequently disapprove of efforts Excellency the Ambassador for . ." or them. to send relief to prisoners or their families. "His/Her E xcellency the High Commissioner Groups should never publicize the recipients of for . .". relief, the amounts sent to them or the channels Addresses Relief However, only diplomats of ambassadorial used or disclose this information to anyone who AI always tells you to whom each appeal should Relief assistance can give material and moral rank are entitled to this title, and all other is not directly involved. be sent. This can vary from a few names and support to prisoners and their families. It may diplomats ( including Charge d'Affaires, Coun- The International Secretariat requires a regular addresses when a quick reaction is needed, as in pay for children's school fees, help to supple- sellor, First Secretary, Second Secretary, Consul, report on all relief money distributed by each an Urgent Action, to a long list of government ment an inadequate prison diet, pay fares to visit and so on) should be addressed as "Dear Secretary" group. ministers and other officials for long-term case a prisoner, or buy medicine. After prisoners have or "Dear Consul" and so forth. work. been released, relief funds can be used for their You can end your letter with the simple If, however, you cannot afford to write many rehabilitation. However, it is not always possible Visits to the "Yours truly" or "Yours sincerely". However, letters abroad there may be an alternative. If the or advisable to send relief to prisoners and their many people prefer to be slightly more formal prisoners country country concerned has a diplomatic mission in families. The Research Department will give and write "Yours respectfully and sincerely". Sometimes it may be possible for group members your country you can send the letter care of the advice about any possible relief activities in the who, in the course of business or pleasure, travel embassy in the hope that it will be forwarded (as "Relief Action" sheet included in the prisoner to countries where they have adopted prisoners it should be). Addresses of high commissions, dossier. Groups should under no circumstances to meet prisoner's relatives and even visit the "We could always tell when international pro- embassies and consulates are found in the tele- tests were taking place . . . the food rations undertake any relief operations other than those prisoner. Group members who wish to visit these phone directory. Most AI sections can supply increased and the beatings inside the prisons recommended in the prisoner dossier. countries should consult the Research Depart- them. were fewer . . . letters from abroad were trans- The International Secretariat distributes relief ment to find out whether such visits would be lated and passed around from cell to cell . . . from central funds for large-scale projects and to possible. After receiving the advice of the Research but when the letters stopped, the dirty food and Department, the group should write to the family. individual prisoners and families. The prisoner Opening and closing the repression started again." No family should be visited without its express From the statement of a dossier will advise groups whether there is a consent in advance, since a sudden visit your letter released prisoner of conscience central channel for relief to the prisoners and from a foreigner could attract unwelcome atten- There are few universal rules on addressing their families. When sending relief money for tion. officials. Practice varies from place to place. The distribution by the International Secretariat, Members on these visits are not permitted to most important thing is that your letter be polite Letters in your language groups should always state the name, address speak or negotiate on behalf of AI. Such visits and respectful. The following suggestions may and number of the group and the name and are quite separate from official AI missions By all means write in your own language. If there country of the prisoner and project for whom it is which are authorized by the International Exe- be helpful as a general guide, but please follow is a local embassy there is no problem — send the destined. cutive Committee only. See the Working Rules. the specific instructions in any case sheet or letter to the embassy. Most embassies have staff recommended actions if they differ from these. capable of translating local correspondence. If Kings and Queens and other monarchs may be the country has no embassy, then it may be addressed as "Your Majesty". possible to get a friend to translate the letter for Other heads of state, such as Presidents, may you. But be sure to send both the original and the be addressed as "Your Excellency". translation to the foreign government. (The 60 Letters and Telegrams Letters and Telegrams 61 translation should be headed "Translation from Sample letters SAMPLE LETTER D SAMPLE LETTER F the Urdu'', or F innish, or whatever the language is.) Prisoner dossiers advise groups on the best and telegrams Dear Consul, Your Excellency, language to use in their letters, but if you cannot I am writing to you on behalf of I understand that the penal code of your get anyone to do a good translation for you, then The following are examples only. Although I do not know him personally, I am country provides the death penalty for a number write clearly and simply in your own language. disturbed that he has been arrested and detained of crimes. I regard this punishment as cruel, without any charge or trial. E veryone has the inhuman and degrading and I believe it should be right to know the charges against them and to be abolished universally. presumed innocent until proved guilty. These SAMPLE LETTER A The death penalty contradicts the principle of What to say fundamental human rights transcend the boun- rehabilitation. It can be inflicted on the innocent daries of nation, race and belief. Here is some general advice: Your Excellency, and has never been shown to have a special Your government has publicly stated that it deterrent effect. It is contrary to humane values Always be polite. Your aim is to help the I appeal for the release of a prisoner seeks respect for universal human rights and and can have a brutalizing effect on any society prisoner. Governments don't respond positive- of conscience who has been held in Ngaragba your country has had high judicial standards. I that uses it. ly to abusive letters. Prison for the last three years. I urge you to take a therefore urge you to convey to your government I should stress that my concern is based personal interest in this case and ensure that my plea that be charged under the law Write on the assumption that the government entirely on respect for human life and is not he/she is allowed to rejoin his/her family. and given a trial that conforms to international is open to reason and discussion. Yours truly, political. I believe we must take every possible human rights standards or be released without step to eradicate violence against human beings, If possible show respect for the country's delay. including the taking of life by society itself. It is in constitution and judicial procedures, and an Yours respectfully and sincerely, this spirit that I urge you to take the lead in ending understanding of its current difficulties. death sentences and executions in your country. Yours truly, Follow the instructions given by AI in each case. For instance, if the Newsletter or Urgent SAMPLE LETTER 13 Action appeal asks you to urge that a group of detainees get proper medical treatment, make Your Excellency, sure that you request this, and not their trial or I am writing to ask for the immediate and un- SAMPLE LETTER E release which might be appropriate in other conditional release of , who I believe has cases. been imprisoned for the non-violent exercise of Your Excellency, her right to freedom of expression in violation of Never use political jargon. Stress the fact that I write in the spirit of friendship that exists the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. your concern for human rights is not politically between your country and mine to inquire about Yours sincerely, partisan but in line with the basic principles of the health of She sustained grave international law. injuries when she was arrested in February of this year and is still in hospital. SAMPLE LETTER G It is preferable to give an indication of who and I am a medical student and as such I am what you are. Some of the following sample particularly concerned about those needing Your Excellency, letters do this. This shows that the letter is medical care. But my concern about I am writing to Your Excellency about the genuine and that people from various walks of SAMPLE LETTER C goes further. She was among hundreds reported case of who was recently sentenced to life are following events in the country con- arrested during the recent national strike. I take death by (name of court, date of sentence). cerned. Dear Prime Minister, no position on the merits of the strike or the I understand that this case may be the subject I am a teacher and a member of Amnesty demands of the strikers, nor do I question the If you have any special interests in or links of judicial appeals. However, I am writing to International. I am concerned about the plight of policies of your government. I am concerned with the country, it is a good idea to mention urge, respectfully, that should these appeals be who has been detained for nearly three about human rights. this in your letter. For instance, you may have exhausted and the case come before Your Ex- years under the Internal Security Act. No reason was taken into custody while exer- visited it or studied its history. cellency for review, that Your Excellency exer- has been given for her detention. cising her rights to freedom of assembly and cise clemency on humanitarian grounds. A simple letter is adequate and is certainly Her imprisonment violates Article 9 of the expression. I urge that she, and all those against Amnesty International, of which I am a better than no letter at all. But sample letters C Universal Declaration of Human Rights which whom no criminal charges can be brought, be un- member, opposes the death penalty in all cases and D might be considered the standard length states: "No one shall be subjected to arbitrary conditionally released. As I believe she is in need on the grounds that it violates the right to life and when you have nothing special to add. A good arrest, detention or exile." I therefore urge you to of urgent medical attention, she should be freed the right not to be subjected to cruel, inhuman or rule is not to write more than one page (that look into this case urgently and to order the immediately so that she can be treated by doctors degrading treatment or punishment as proclaimed release of is, one side). Only occasionally are long let- of her own choice. in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Yours sincerely, ters likely to be effective. Yours respectfully and sincerely, Yours sincerely and respectfully,

62 Letters and Telegrams

Chapter 11 SAMPLE LETTER H SAMPLE TELEGRAMS Your group has heen working on an investi- gation Case fin- three years. No reply has been Respectfully urge immediate medical care received to any qf .your letters. You write tbr arrested by Revolutionary regularly each month, asking about a different Guard 17 May. Now reported seriously ill. aspect of the case. This time you are going to ask nes International lic again about the prisoner's place of detention. Deeply concerned arrest of and You write to the Minister of Justice.) reports of possible incommunicado deten- Dear Minister. fion. Respectfully urge immediate access to Statute of Amnesty International 1 wish to draw your attention to the fact that I lawyers and relatives. have received no reply from your ministry to a (Amended and adopted hy the 15th Inter- number of letters concerning I write now national Council, meeting in Rimini, Italy, 9- to ask for intOrmation about her place of detention. abducted by armed agents. Respect- /2 September 1982) is reported to have been detained on 3 fully appeal for urgent investigation to deter- May 1980 under the Regulations for the Sup- mine prisoner's whereabouts. pression of Rebellion. She was last seen in the OBJECT METHODS custody of officers of the State Security Police. 1. CONSIDERING that every person has 2. In order to achieve the aforesaid object, There has been no announcement of any charges Respectfully urge clemency fbr on the right freely to hold and to express his or AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL shall: against her and no report of any legal pro- humanitarian grounds. her convictions and the obligation to extend at all times maintain an overall balance ceedings. a like freedom to others, the object of between its activities in relation to Amnesty International, of which I am a member. AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL shall countries adhering to the different world has taken an interest in this case. It acts in Urgently require information lawyer be to secure throughout the world the political ideologies and groupings; defence of' people imprisoned in violation of the detained 5 December and assurances her observance of the privisions of the promote as appears appropriate the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and is physical safety. Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adoption of constitutions, conventions, seeking details as to the whereabouts of by: It may interest you to know that, in addition to treaties and other measures which guaran- irrespective of political considerations tee the rights contained in the provisions making inquiries about this case, the Amnesty working towards the release of and referred to in Article 1 hereof; International group to which I belong is also F . Strongly urge protection against providing assistance to persons who in support and publicize the activities of working for the release of who has been forcible repatriation to where im- violation of the aforesaid provisions are and cooperate with international organ- held without trial for seven years in , and prisonment and ill-treatment feared likely. imprisoned, detained or otherwise phys- izations and agencies which work for the is campaigning against other human rights abuses ically restricted by reason of their political, implementation of the aforesaid provisions; in religious or other conscientiously held take all necessary steps to establish an I should be grateful if your ministry would let beliefs or by reason of their ethnic origin, effective organization of sections, affiliated me know without further delay the where- G. Greatly disturbed disappearance of prisoner sex, colour or language, provided that they removed from cell 16 October. groups and individual members; abouts of have not used or advocated violence Respectfully seek assurances his safety. secure the adoption by groups of mem- Yours respectfully and sincerely, (hereinafter referred to as "Prisoners of bers or supporters of individual Prisoners of Conscience"); Conscience or entrust to such groups other opposing by all appropriate means the tasks in support of the object set out in detention of any Prisoners of Conscience or Article 1; any political prisoners without trial within a (0 provide financial and other relief to reasonable time or any trial procedures Prisoners of Conscience and their depen- relating to such prisoners that do not dants and to persons who have lately been conform to internationally recognized Prisoners of Conscience or who might norms; reasonably be expected to be Prisoners of opposing by all appropriate means the Conscience or to become Prisoners of Con- imposition and infliction of death penalties science if convicted or if they were to return and torture or other cruel, inhuman or de- to their own countries, and to the dependants grading treatment or punishment of of such persons; prisoners or other detained or restricted (g) work for the improvement of conditions persons whether or not they have used or for Prisoners of Conscience and political advocated violence. prisoners; Amnesty International Policy 64 Amnesty International Policy 65

( h) provide legal aid, where necessary and shall decide and which is ratified by at least Groups shall act in accordance with the vote at the International Council. This possible, to Prisoners of (onscience and to one half of the sections. working rules and guidelines that are requirement may he waived in whole or in persons who might reasonably be expected adopted from time to time by the Inter- SECTIONS part hy the International Council. to be Prisoners of Conscience or to become national Council. Prisoners of Conscience if convicted or if A section of AMNESTY INTER 14 One representative of each group not tOrm- they were to return to their own countries, NATIONAL may be established in any INDIVIDUAL MEMBERSHIP ing part of a section may attend a meeting of and, where desirable, send observers to country. state or territory with the consent the International Council as an observer Individuals residing in countries where attend the trials of such persons; of the International Executive Committee. and may speak thereat but shall not he there is no section may, on payment to the publicize the cases of Prisoners of Con- In order to be recognized as such. a section entitled to vote. International Secretariat of an annual science or persons who have otherwise shall (a) prior to its recognition have A section unable to participate in an Inter- subscription fee determined by the been subjected to disabilities in violation of demonstrated its ability to organize and national Council may appoint a proxy or International Executive Committee, the aforesaid provisions; maintain basic AMNESTY INTER- proxies to vote on its behalf and a section become members of AMNESTY INTERN- send investigators, where appropriate, to NATIONAL activities. (b) consist of not represented by a lesser number of persons ATIONAL with the consent of the investigate allegations that the rights of less than two groups and 20 members, (c ) than its entitlement under Article 13 hereof International Executive Committee. In individuals under the aforesaid provisions submit its statute to the International may authorize its representative or repre- countries where a section exists, individuals have been violated or threatened; Executive Committee for approval, (d) pay sentatives to cast votes up to its maximum may become international members of ( k) make representations to international such annual fee as may be determined by entitlement under Article 13 hereof. AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL with organizations and to governments whenever the International Council, (e) be registered Notice of the number of representatives the consent of the section and of the it appears that an individual is a Prisoner of as such with the International Secretariat on proposing to attend an International Council, International Executive Committee. The Conscience or has otherwise been the decision of the International Executive and of the appointment of proxies, shall be International Secretariat shall maintain a subjected to disabilities in violation of the Committee. Sections shall take no action given to the International Secretariat not register of such members. aforesaid provisions; on matters that do not fall within the stated later than one month before the meeting of (1) promote and support the granting of object of AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL. Deleted. the International Council. This requirement general amnesties of which the beneficiar- The International Secretariat shall maintain may be waived by the International Exe- ies will include Prisoners of Conscience: a register of sections. Sections shall act in INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL cutive Committee. (m) adopt any other appropriate methods accordance with the working rules and The International Council shall consist of A quorum shall consist of the representatives for the securing of its object. guidelines that are adopted from time to the members of the International Executive or proxies of not less than one quarter of the time by the International Council. Committee and of representatives of sections sections entitled to be represented. Groups of not less than five members may, and shall meet at intervals of not more than The Chairperson of the International ORGANIZATION on payment of an annual fee determined by two years on a date fixed by the Inter- Council and an alternate shall be elected by AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL shall the International Council, become affiliated national Executive Committee. Only rep- the preceding International Council. The consist of sections, affiliated groups and to AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL or a resentatives of sections shall have the right Chairperson or, in his or her absence, the individual members. section thereof. Any dispute as to whether a to vote on the International Council. alternate, shall preside at the International The directive authority for the conduct of group should be or remain affiliated shall be All sections shall have the right to appoint Council. In the absence of the Chairperson the affairs of AMNESTY INTER- decided by the International Executive one representative to the International and the alternate, the Chairperson of the NATIONAL is vested in the International Committee. An affiliated adoption group Council and in addition may appoint repre- International E xecutive Committee or such Council. shall accept for adoption such prisoners as sentatives as follows: other person as the International Executive may from time to time be allotted to it by the Between meetings of the International 10-49 groups : 1 representative Committee may appoint shall open the International Secretariat, and shall adopt Council, the International Executive Com- 50-99 groups : 2 representatives proceedings of the International Council no others as long as it remains affiliated to mittee shall be responsible for the conduct 100-199 groups : 3 representatives which shall elect a Chairperson. There- AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL. No of the affairs of AMNESTY INTER- 200-399 groups : 4 representatives after the elected Chairperson, or such other group shall be allotted a Prisoner of NATIONAL and for the implementation 400 groups or over : 5 representatives person as the Chairperson may appoint, of the decisions of the International Conscience detained in its own country. shall preside at the International Council. Sections consisting primarily of individual Council. Each section shall maintain and make members rather than groups may as an Except as otherwise provided in the The day-to-day affairs of AMNESTY available to the International Secretariat a alternative appoint additional representa- Statute, the International Council shall INTERNATIONAL shall be conducted register of affiliated AMNESTY INTER- tives as follows: make its decisions by a simple majority of by the International Secretariat headed by NATIONAL groups. Groups in a coun- the votes cast. In case of an equality of a Secretary General under the direction of try without a section shall be registered 500-2,499 : 1 representative votes the Chairperson of the International the International Executive Committee. with the International Secretariat. 2,500 and over : 2 representatives Council shall have a casting vote. The office of the International Secretariat Groups shall take no action on matters Only sections having paid in full their The International Council shall be con- shall be in London or such other place as that do not fall within the stated object of annual fee as assessed by the International vened by the International Secretariat by the International Executive Committee AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL. Council for the previous financial year shall notice to all sections and affiliated groups 66 Amnesty International Policy Amnesty International Policy 67

not later than 90 days before the date E xecutive Committee on the proposal of INTERNATIONAL SECRETARIAT INTERNATIONAL activities or does not thereof. the staff members. The International Executive Committee observe any of the provisions of this The Chairperson of the International The International Executive Committee may appoint a Secretary General who shall Statute. Before taking such action, all Executive Committee shall at the request of shall meet not less than twice a year at a be responsible under its direction for the sections shall be intOrmed and the Secre- place to be decided by itself. the Committee or of not less than one-third conduct of the affairs of AMNESTY tary General shall also inform the section, of the sections call an extraordinary meet- (a) Those members of the International INTERNATIONAL and for the imple- affiliated group or member of the grounds ing of the International Council by giving Executive Committee elected by the 15th mentation of the decisions of the Inter- on which it is proposed to deprive it or such not less than 21 days' notice in writing to all International Council in 1982 shall be national Council. person of membership, and such section, sections. elected for one year only and shall be The Secretary General may, after consul- affiliated group or member shall be provided 22. The International Council shall elect a eligible for re-election. tation with the Chairperson of the Inter- with an opportunity of presenting its or such Treasurer, who shall be a member of the (b) Members of the International Executive national Executive Committee, and subject member's case to the International Council. International E xecutive Committee. Committee, other than the representative of to confirmation by that Committee. appoint 42. Deleted. 23. The International Council may appoint one the staff, shall hold office for a period of two such executive and professional staff as are or more Honorary Presidents of AMNESTY years and shall be eligible for re-election for necessary for the proper conduct of the FINANCE INTERNATIONAL to hold office for a a maximum tenure of three consecutive affairs of AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL. 43. An auditor appointed by the International period not exceeding three years. terms. and may appoint such other staff as are Council shall annually audit the accounts of 24. The agenda tbr the meetings of the Inter- The Committee may co-opt not more than necessary. AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL. which national Council shall be prepared by the two additional members who shall hold In the case of the absence or illness of the shall be prepared by the International International Secretariat under the direction office until the close of the next meeting of Secretary General, or of a vacancy in the Secretariat and presented to the Inter- of the Chairperson of the International the International Council: they shall be post of Secretary General, the Chairperson national Executive Committee and the Executive Committee. eligible to be reco-opted once. Co-opted of the International Executive Committee members shall not have the right to vote. International Council. shall, after consultation with the members 44. No part of the income or property of INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE In the event of a vacancy occurring on the of that Committee, appoint an Acting AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL shall COMMITTEE Committee, other than in respect of the Secretary General to act until the next directly or indirectly be paid or transferred representative of the staff, it may co-opt a 25. (a) The International Executive Commit- meeting of the Committee. otherwise than for valuable and sufficient tee shall consist of the Treasurer, one further member to fill the vacancy until the The Secretary General or Acting Secretary consideration to any of its members by way representative of the staff of the Inter- next meeting of the International Council, General and such members of the Inter- of dividend, gift, division, bonus or otherwise national Secretariat and seven regular which shall elect such members as are national Secretariat as may appear to the howsoever by way of profit. members, who shall be members of necessary to replace retiring members and Chairperson of the International Executive to fillthe vacancy. In the event of a vacancy AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL, or of a Committee to be necessary shall attend AMENDMENTS OF STATUTE section, or of an affiliated group. The occurring on the Committee in respect of meetings of the International Council and 45. The Statute may be amended by the Inter- regular members and Treasurer shall be the representative of the staff, the staff shall of the International Executive Committee elected by the International Council by the have the right to elect a successor repre- and may speak thereat but shall not be national Council by a majority of not less direct proportional system of election. Not sentative to fill the unexpired term of office. entitled to vote. than two-thirds of the votes cast. Amend- more than one member of any section or If a member of the Committee is unable to ments may be submitted by the International affiliated group or AMNESTY INTER- attend a meeting, such member may appoint TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP Executive Committee or by a section. Pro- an alternate. posed amendments shall be submitted to NATIONAL member voluntarily resident 40, Membership of or affiliation to AMNESTY The Committee shall each year appoint one the International Secretariat not less than in a country may be elected as a regular INTERNATIONAL may be terminated of its members to act as Chairperson. three* months before the International member to the Committee, and once such at any time by resignation in writing. The Chairperson may, and at the request of Council meets, and presentation to the member has received sufficient votes to be 41. The International Council may, upon the the majority of the Committee shall, sum- International Council shall be supported in elected, any votes cast for other members of proposal of the International Executive mon meetings of the Committee. writing by at least five sections. Proposed that section, affiliated group or country Committee or of a section, by a three- A quorum shall consist of not less than five amendments shall be communicated by the shall be disregarded. fourths majority of the votes cast, deprive a members of the Committee or their alter- International Secretariat to all sections and ( b) Members of the permanent staff, paid section, an affiliated group or a member of nates. to members of the International Executive and unpaid, shall have the right to elect one membership of AMNESTY INTER- The agenda for meetings of the Committee Committee. representative among the staff who has NATIONAL if in its opinion that section, shall be prepared by the International Secre- completed not less than two years' service affiliated group or member does not act tariat under the direction of the Chairperson. to be a voting member of the International within the spirit of the object and methods 35 The Committee may make regulations for Executive Committee. Such member shall set out in Articles 1 and 2 or does not *nine months after the 16th International Council in 1983. This the conduct of the affairs of AMNESTY amendment was agreed at the 15th International Council, meeting hold office for one year and shall be eligible organize and maintain basic AMNESTY for re-election. The method of voting shall INTERNATIONAL and for the procedure in Rimini. Italy, 9-12 September 1982. be subject to approval by the International to be followed at the International Council. 68 Amnesty International Policy Amnesty International Policy 69

its members thmughout the world and hy runs the risk of being misunderstood as giving an Impartiality and the Defence of donations. In order to maintain its independence unbalanced view oldie situation in the world as a and impartiality. the International Council of Al Human Rights whole but cannot for that reason go beyond its has established strict guidelines for the accep- practice of drawing attention to specific human (This explanation of A l's policy of impartiality tance of funds to guarantee dun "any funds rights violations whenever it obtains substantial is issued by the organization's International received hy Al ( its secretariat. sections, com- informathm. Executive Committee. It outlines the wars in mittees and groups) must in no way compromise which Al endeavours to maintain indepen- the integrity of the principles for which Al works. dence, universality an(I impartiality in its limit the freedom of activity and expression IMPARTIALITy work.) enjoyed by the organization or restrict its areas of The work of AI is based on the support of a mass concern ,'• The AI accounts are audited annually The impartial approach of AI to the defence of utmost importance that Al should have no membership and involves inter% entions with and are published in the annual report of the specific human rights is based upon the pro- political, religious, racial or other bias. Ever governments of all political persuasions. and organization. visions Of the Universal Declaration of Human since it was founded in 1961, Al has endeavoured collaboration with and action through both inter- Rights. adopted by the General Assembly of the to ensure this by taking practical steps to INIVERSAIIII governmental and non-governmental organiz United Nations on 10 December 1948. The guarantee the independence, universality and ations. It is therefore essential that Al should The working methods of Al reflect the tunda declaration proclaims that the recognition of the impartiality of its work. command the confidence and respect of all these mental belief that responsibility for the protection inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable categories and should not only be. but of human rights transcends differences of he seen by rights of all members of the human family is the them to be. impartial. I NIDEPEN BENCE nationality, race or belief. Unlike domestic civil foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the Article 2( a) of the organization's Statute AI was founded in 1961 following an appeal liberties organizations, Al groups work on an world. This faith in the universality of funda- requires Al to "at all times maintain an overall international basis. This parallels the evolution mental human rights is one of the principles launched by British lawyer Peter Benenson in an balance between its activities in relation to of international human rights legislation in the which the peoples of the United Nations have article entitled "The Forgotten Prisoners- pub- countries adhering to the different world political magazine on 28 May of past two decades which has established the pledged themselves to uphold and observe in the lished in the Observer ideologies and groupings". principle that the defence of human rights is of Charter. that year. Within a month of the publication of When examining the overall impartiality of concern to the entire international community. The state, having an international duty to his appeal he had received over a thousand otTers the movement, it is important to bear in mind that AI is committed to taking action wherever and guarantee and enforce human rights, does not of support to collect information on cases, to Al has at its disposal a considerable variety of publicize them and approach governments. Within whenever information about violations of human - bestow" these rights upon its individual citizens techniques to respond to human rights vio- rights falling within its mandate comes to its at its own pleasure nor can it retract them at its two months, people from five countries had lations. These have evolved on the basis of attention. The availability of such information is own will and political convenience. Indeed the established the beginnings of an international practical experience of working tOr prisoners. movement. therefore an important factor in determining the very concept of human rights implies their The techniques include letters to government Today. Al remains the only organization of its universality of AI's work. The Research Depart- inalienable applicability to each human being in authorities, appeals which may take the form of kind in the world. It has some 2,500 groups and ment of Al compiles and cross-checks infor- all situations (except certain specific cases general petitions addressed to a head of state and mation about human rights violations in any recognized in international law) without distinc- sections in some 40 countries in Africa, Asia, the signed by thousands of individuals. appeals from country in the world from a wide variety of tion of any kind, such as race, colour, sex, Middle East, North America and Latin America, professional associations or prominent personalities, sources. It uses the international press, trans- language, religion, political or other opinion, and individual members in more than 100 others. public declarations or statements by inter- criptions of radio announcements. official national or social origin, property, birth or other Al is a non-governmental organization having national institutions, delegations to embassies, governmental statements and interviews with status. Fundamental human rights, therefore, are formal relations with the United Nations meetings with visiting foreign officials, repre- government officials, reports from legal experts, ends rather than means. In the world of inter- (ECOSOC), UNESCO, the Council of Europe, sentations by sections to their own governments letters from prisoners' relatives, friends and national politics it is a perennial temptation to the Organization of American States and the seeking increased international diplomatic colleagues, affidavits, and unsolicited contacts use human rights as an issue to be exploited, to Organization of African Unity. It is not an inter- pressure in defence of human rights. Both through in numerous countries. It also relies on the infor- score points in an international power game. governmental body and is not subject to govern- its International Secretariat and its sections, AI mation provided by its fact-finding missions to Only when human rights are understood as ends mental control or influence. issues statements to the news media, maintains a The policy of Al is determined by its Inter- assess situations on the spot, to meet prisoners in themselves will the violations of human rights publications program and organizes campaigns and to interview government authorities. be approached universally, impartially and con- national Council, the supreme governing body on specific themes and countries. This is in comprising representatives of the movement's Several factors affect the availability of infor- structively. addition to the traditional core of the organization's sections. This body, which functions on a mation and consequently the breadth of Al's Al is an international movement organized to program: the adoption of individual prisoners of reports. For example, there are reasons to believe protect those provisions of the Universal Declar- democratic basis, elects an International conscience. Executive Committee which is responsible for that in a number of countries gross violations of ation of Human Rights which fall within its In its case work (the movement handles more human rights occur on a large scale as a conse- mandate, or in the words of the declaration "to the conduct of the affairs of Al and for the than 4,000 individual cases of prisoners of implementation of the decisions of the Inter- quence of administrative policy. But often in secure their universal and effective recognition conscience each year), Al's impartiality is national Council. these cases the corroborative information neces- and observance". emphasized by the requirement that local groups Al is financially independent. It is funded by sary for Al reports cannot be obtained. Al thus In fulfilling this mandate, it is therefore of the should at any one time adopt at least two Amnesty International Policy Amnesty International Policy 70 71

non -violence clause was thus of the essence of prisoners of conscience from different regions of working of' Al. It is a permanent body respon- "violence clause" means in practice is that AI the movement from its foundation, and was an the world. When allocating cases, attention is sible for reviewing any case referred to it by the will not ask a government to release a prisoner important factor in attracting widespread support paid to ensuring that sufficient overall political International Secretariat for advice as to whether while he or she is serving a sentence imposed from people in all walks of life and of every contrast is maintained in the work of each group the case fulfils the statutory requirements for after a fair trial for activities involving violence. political persuasion. to demonstrate Al's basic object of working for adoption or investigation as a prisoner of con- For the reasons set out below, this restriction Since then, people have frequently queried the release of prisoners of conscience irrespective science. Its members are appointed by the Inter- seems essential for the effectiveness of the this restriction and urged that Al's work be of political considerations. This is important to national Executive Committee from three different organization. extended to those who, according to the pre- preclude any suspicion that the individual Al sections or countries. amble to the Universal Declaration of Human Al TAKES NO MORAL STAND ON group ( or the whole movement) is politically Often Al responds unostentatiously. For Rights, have been compelled -to have recourse, THE ISSUE OF VIOLENCE biased. As a further safeguard, and as a method example. if it appears that public intervention as a last resort, to rebellion against tyranny and of internationalizing concern tbr human rights, may harm the prisoner or the family, private It sometimes seems to be thought that AI, as an oppression-. The vast majority of the Al member- groups are never assigned individual cases of approaches may have to be made to the authorities organization, is opposed to the use of violence in ship, however, has always remained firmly prisoners of conscience in their own country. concerned. At other times, it may be more any circumstances. This is not so. Al's position opposed to the extension of Al's work ./br This principle is extended to the Campaign for effective for Al to work for prisoners of conscience the is entirely impartial, AI was not founded to work release of prisoners Prisoners of the Month and to Prisoners of by pressing governments through other organiz- to those who have been for general economic, social and political justice involved in violence and this position is in fact Conscience Week in which the cases are very ations or institutions, through commercial, pro- in the various countries of the world --- however generally understood and accepted by those carefully selected to reflect the political im- fessional or religious organizations which are much its individual members may wish to do so, outside the movement. partiality of Al's work. In the Campaign for concerned with protecting the interests of their and are free to do so through other bodies ---but The explanations and justifications for this Prisoners of the Month, for example. AI selects members. for example, doctors, lawyers, agri- to bring relief to individual victims of injustice. It position can be summed up as follows: three cases of prisoners of conscience who are in cultural workers. steel workers, school teachers has been built up to do this, and is uniquely special need of outside help. These prisoners or journalists. equipped to do it. The question of whether resort AI MAY ACT FOR THOSE WHO HAVE may be ill or have been detained under severe On the other hand, there are human rights to violence is justified or not is extraneous to this BEEN INVOLVED IN VIOLENCE conditions for a prolonged period of time. The violations which call for a massive public outcry. central task. details of these critical cases are included in the In these situations Al seeks to awaken world The reproach that Al refuses to concern itself with It is, however, clear that the extension of Al's monthly Amnesty International Newsletter and public opinion boldly and openly. Each technique prisoners who have been compelled to have work to action for the release of prisoners sent to AI members for immediate action. The is applied on a country-by-country basis in order resort to violence is based on a misunder- convicted of violence would compromise the practice of working for prisoners of conscience to achieve maximum effectiveness. For instance. standing. Al's work now has three aspects: effectiveness of its work both for prisoners of from contrasting political systems is carefully when appropriate. Al organizes extensive public conscience and for prisoners involved in vio- I . The release of prisoners of conscience ( that maintained. This policy has proved effective on action on behalf of prisoners in countries where lence. This, and not a moral stand, is the reason is, non-violent prisoners). purely pragmatic grounds. At no time does Al there are a large number of well-documented for the "violence clause-. A fair trial within a reasonable time for presume either to rank or to compare violations violations of human rights, even if it is not in a all political prisoners. of human rights, nor does Al intend any judgment position to launch similar action elsewhere for A QUESTION OF EFFECTIVENESS The humane treatment of that violations of human rights are similar or lack of substantiated information. This bears out all prisoners. Al's work is based on the support of a mass comparable under any political system. the fact that Al will act only on accurate infor- membership and involves interventions with These last two aspects of its work have assumed The Borderline Committee also illustrates the mation and, as stipulated in the Statute, "irre- governments of all political persuasions, and growing importance as the movement has expan- principle of impartiality that permeates the spective of political consideration". collaboration with and action through inter- ded. Thus, Al intervenes through a variety of national organizations, both governmental and techniques to prevent the imposition of the death non-governmental. It is therefore essential that penalty on, or the torture or ill-treatment of, all AI should command the confidence and respect prisoners, whether involved in violence or not. Amnesty International and of all these categories and should not only be. but Furthermore, Al will not necessarily consider be seen by them to be, impartial. the Use of Violence a prisoner excluded from its definition of AI now has more than 350,000 active prisoner of conscience unless he or she has been AN EXPLANATORY NOTE members and supporters of all political affili- convicted of offences involving the use or ations, pacifists as well as people convinced that This explanation of Al's policy on the use of advocacy of violence after a fair trial in a court of in some or many parts of the world violence is the violence for political ends is based on a state- law. In the case of prisoners, whether accused or only means of overcoming the even greater ment prepared by a sub-committee established suspected of violence or not, who have been violence now being practised by those in power. by its International Council in Vienna in 1973. detained for a long period without trial, it may From this point of view the clause is basically a The sub-committee was asked to consider the intervene to seek to ensure their trial or release. necessary limitation to enable people of all question of violence within AI's Statute. Also, a prisoner may be adopted if he or she is political colours to work together. kept in detention after completing his or her Al was founded essentially to work for the the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Although most members would probably sentence for an act of violence. Ail that the release of those who were detained in violation of who had not used or advocated violence. The consider as individuals that there are some Amnesty International Policy Amnesty International Policy 72 73

armed service or any other direct or indirect situation where violent action k the only government will attach more weight than to their ( e) he or she is imprisoned as a consequence participation in wars or armed conflicts. solution. the membership would not agree on own. Further. members of such groups have. of his or her leaving the armed forces without when Al's position is explained to them, fully what those situations are. Als membership must 2. Where a person is detained/imprisoned be- authorization for reasons of conscience accepted it, and recognize that it is a condition of be universal, and include members of the right cause he or she claims that he or she on the developed atter conscription into the armed Al's effectiveness in the fields in which it does willing to intervene in countries with a govern- grounds of conscience described in paragraph forces, if he or she has taken such reasonable seek to help them. ment of the right and members of the left willing I above objects to military service, Amnesty steps to secure his or her release by lawful to intervene in countries with a government of the International will consider him or her a means as might grant him or her release from left. Interventions of this kind are clearly more A PRACTICAL PROBLEM Prisoner ofConscience, if his or her imprison- the military obligations on the grounds of effective than those by the prisoner's political While it is a secondary consideration, it is ment/detention is a consequence of one or conscience or if he or she did not use those sympathirers. certain that the problems of delineating violent more of the following reasons: means because he or she has been deprived of reasonable access to the knowledge of them, With regard to governments. Al's influence political actions as against violent criminal (a) the legal code of a country does not (1) there is not a right to alternative service depends on the fact that governments accept it as actions would be almost insuperable and subject contain provisions for the recognition of con- outside the -war machine": an independent organi/ation, politically im- to all manner of subjective political precon- scientious objection and tor a person to register (g) the length of the alternative service is partial in relation both to it and to its opposition. ceptions.Would all kinds of violent actions be his or her objection at a specific point in time; deemable as a punishment for his or her con- If Al began to demand the release of those who covered? Hijackings, kidnappings, the killing of ( b) a person is refused the right to register his scientious objection. have been involved in violent opposition to the hostages, bombing causing the deaths of inno- or her objection; government it would become identified with the cent people? Who would draw the distinctions? 3. A person should not be considered a Prisoner the recognition of conscientious objection opposition in the government's mind and lose its And who would decide, and on what criteria. that of Conscience if he or she is not willing to state is so restricted that only some and not all of the credit and its influence. Not only would such resort to violence was justifiable? The intro- the reason for his or her refusal to perform above-mentioned grounds of conscience or demands for release be ineffective, but its work duction of such concepts would inevitably lead to military service, unless it can be inferred from profound conviction are acceptable; all the circumstances of the case that the for non-violent prisoners and tOr the humane dissensions on the basis of the political beliefs of a person does not have the right to claim treatment of those who have used violence would the membership which, under the present refusal is based on conscientious objection. conscientious objection on the above-mentioned 4. suffer. system. can remain irrelevant to the individual's A person should however not be considered a grounds of conscience or profound conviction Similarly. Al's standing with international action as a member of Al. Prisoner of Conscience if he or she is offered developed after conscription into the armed organizations --- such as the United Nations, and refuses comparable alternative service forces; outside the "war machine-. ECOSOC. UNESCO. the Organization of AN ARGUMENT OF PRINCIPLE African Unity. the Organization of American It must be remembered that one aspect of Al's States and the Council of Europe ---- would be work is to ensure humane (that is, non-violent) endangered, and its initiatives (for example, in treatment for political prisoners. AI would be relation to the status of conscientious objectors applying a double standard if it insisted that the Declaration of Stockholm in the Council of Europe and in relation to torture police and prison authorities abstain from any at the United Nations) would lose the authority (Adopted by the Amnesty International Confer- which comes from its independence and im- act of violence or brutality yet maintained that ence on the Abolition of the Death Penalty, partiality. those on the other side should be allowed to Stockholm, December 1977) Finally, if Al became identified in govern- commit such acts and yet be unpunished. It can and does insist that punishment should be ments' minds with certain opposition groups, its The Stockholm Conference on the Abolition of The imposition and infliction of the death humanely carried out, but it would discredit itself value to those very opposition groups would be the Death Penalty, composed of more than 200 penalty is brutalizing to all who are involved in if it maintained that the very violence which it is diminished. At the present time, they are able to delegates and participants from Africa, Asia, the process, seeking to eliminate from police practices is and do refer to Al pronouncements as those of Europe, the Middle East, North and South — The death penalty has never been shown to justified when used by the opposition. an outside, impartial body to whose views the America and the Caribbean region, have a special deterrent effect, RECALLS THAT: The death penalty is increasingly taking the —The death penalty is the ultimate cruel, in- form of unexplained "disappearances", extra- Policy Guidelines on human and degrading punishment and violates judicial executions and political murders, the right to life. —Execution is irrevocable and can be inflicted on the innocent. Conscientious Objection CONSIDERS THAT: (Revised and adopted by the 13th International —The death penalty is frequently used as an AFFIRMS THAT: Council, Vienna, 1980) instrument of repression against opposition, It is the duty of the state to protect the life of all racial, ethnic, religious and underprivileged persons within its jurisdiction without profound conviction arising from religious, groups, exception, 1. A conscientious objector is understood to be a ethical, moral, humanitarian, philosophical, —Execution is an act of violence, and violence person liable to conscription for military —Executions for the purposes of political political or similar motives refuses to perform tends to provoke violence, service who, for reasons of conscience or coercion, whether by government agencies or 74 Amnesty International Policy Amnesty International Policy 75

A section must ensure its financial inde- of hers, are equally unacceptable. CALLS UPON: Amnesty International is reflected in the work Abolition of the death penalty is imperative pendence and observe Al international guide- Non-governmental organizations, both national and image of the section in the country. for the achievement ol declared international lines on acceptance of financial cow ributions and international, to work collectively and The section is responsible for recruiting standards. and fund-raising. individually to provide public information new members and for preparing programs for A section must submit annual statements DECLARES: materials directed towards the abolition of the developing membership from a broad spectrum of its finances to the Treasurer. Its total and unconditional opposition to the death penalty. of the community. death penalty. All governments to bring about the immediate The section is responsibly for ensuring that - Its condemnation of all executions, in what- Notes and total abolition of the death penalty, its members are informed of and act in accord- ever form, committed or condoned by ance with the mandate of the organization and Recognition: a section is recognized in governments, The United Nations unambiguously to declare with its Working Rules and internal guidelines accordance with Article 8 of the Al Statute. -- Its commitment to work for the universal that the death penalty is contrary to inter- including those related to security, responsible In order to fulfil and demonstrate continu- abolition of the death penalty. national law. handling of information and work on one's ous adherence to the minimum requirements own country. for a section, a potential section should par- ticipate in Al work for not less than one year The section is responsible for developing before seeking recognition by the Interna- membership training programs and materials. Guidelines for Sections and Groups tional Executive Committee. The section is responsible for establishing, closing and monitoring the activities of adop- These guidelines for the work of AI sections Temporary or permanent closure: ex- tion groups, coordination groups, professional and groups were adopted by the 15th ternal changes in the political circumstances groups and any other membership structure it International Council, 1982. For explanatory in which a section exists and operates or in- may develop within its own country. notes to these guidelines, see Report qf the ternal developments within the section which 15th International Council, AI Index: ORG seriously affect one or more of the minimum The section is responsible for maintaining 52/01182. requirements may lead to the temporary clo- up-to-date membership records and mailing sure of the section by the International Ex- lists and should make these available to the ecutive Committee.or its permanent closure International Secretariat if requested. Minimum Requirements for Sections A section's composition and the circum- by the International Council. The section is responsible for informing stances in which it operates must be such as to the International Secretariat of the names of A section must have a statute which ensure its political independence and freedom Exemption: any one or all of the guide- the officers and staff of the section and for no- reflects the objects and methods of AI as of action. lines for sections and groups may be waived contained in the Al Statute. This statute is to by the International Executive Committee in tifying the International Secretariat of any A section must have a reasonable number be approved by the International Executive relation to a particular section or group, change of address of the section or groups of members who have undergone a basic Committee. where considered advisable or necessary in within the section. training in the aims and methods of Amnesty the existing circumstances. The section is responsible for the A section must have an active member- International. This training will normally be by handling of material sent to it by the Interna- ship, not less than two groups and 20 members, participation in internationally accepted train- tional Secretariat and for making Al informa- which in promotion of Al's mandated concerns ing programs; it may also take place, where Responsibilities of a Section tion available to the members and to the gen- shall maintain a reasonable level of participa- appropriate, through visits to the International eral public as appropriate. tion in basic Al activities: for example, Secretariat, through work in other sections, or I. The section through its governing body is adoption work, Urgent Actions, the Campaign through visits by IS staff or experienced Al responsible to the International Executive The section is responsible for the distribu- for the Prisoners of the Month, country members. Committee for the proper functioning of the tion of the Al Newsletter and other Al publica- campaigns. Al tions in its own country and for developing A section should be able to deal with ma- organization in that country and for ensur- ing consistent and effective subscriber programs as appropriate. A section must act in accordance with the terial in the working language of the interna- work for concerns Al Statute and the Working Rules and guide- tional movement (English). within the Al mandate. The section is responsible where appro- lines adopted from time to time by the Inter- A section must have a governing body, The section is responsible for participating priate for developing a program of translation national Council and the International Execu- such as an executive committee or board, in the consultation and decision-making pro- into national languages. tive Committee. Of particular importance are which represents the membership of the section cess of the international organization and for The section is responsible for developing the guidelines regarding security and respon- and which meets regularly. implementing relevant International Council fund-raising activities in its own country. sible handling of information and the guide- A section must submit comprehensive an- decisions. The section is responsible for developing lines on section work on one's own country. A nual reports on its activities to the International The section is responsible for promoting relations with the national press and with section shall take no action on matters that do Executive Committee. awareness of the work and aims of Amnesty national organizations and institutions. It is not fall within these provisions. A section shall make such financial con- International on a national level. also responsible for preparing guidelines for A section must not operate in violation of tribution to the international movement as is The section is responsible for ensuring that use by its members in these relations. determined by the International Council. the law of its own country. the impartiality and political balance of The section is normally responsible for 76 Amnesty International Policy Amnesty International Policy 77 contacts with its own government, apart from The group must not operate in violation of resign from the section governing body or Notes approaches about human rights violations the law of its own country. senior staff position. within the government's jurisdiction Which are The composition of the group and the cir- In some situations a person's previous em- Somewhat similar guidelines were the responsibilities of the International Execu- cumstances in which it operates must be such as ployment or activity may prove incompatible adopted in September 1979 by the Inter- tive Committee and the International to ensure its political independence and free- with being a member of a section governing national Executive Committee regarding the Secret ariat . dom of action. This is of particular importance body or senior staff member. public roles of International Executive for a group where there is no section. Committee members. Minimum Requirements for AI Groups (within In any situation of uncertainty as to whether or not a present position or previously sections and in countries or territories where Sections may want to draw up for Notes held position should be treated as coming with- there is no section) themselves similar guidelines which would in the above rules, the section and/or the mem- Recognition. A group shall be formed relate to appointment or election of individ- I. 1 he group shall be registered with the sec- ber concerned should seek and abide by the and recognized only with the consent of the uals to posts within the section at local and tion, or where there is no section, with the opinion of the International Executive section, or where there is no section, with the regional levels. International Secretariat. C'ommittee. consent of the International Executive The group must have an organized struc- The International Executive Committee Committee. These guidelines also apply to leading will take these guidelines into consideration ture and sufficient active members—not less members of Al groups in countries or terri- when approving the creation of groups with- than five—to ensure effective and continuous Temporary or permanent closure. tories without a section. out a section. work, to elect officers, and to maintain a reli- Temporary or permanent closure of a group able mailing address. In particular where there where there is a section is governed by the is no section, some of its members need to be rules for groups of the respective section. able to deal with material in the working lan- Where there is no section, external changes guage of the international movement (English). in the political circumstances in which the Guidelines on Al Sections' Activities group exists and operates or internal devel- All members of the group shall agree to concerning Human Rights Violations opments within the group which seriously work in accordance with the Al Statute and the affect one or more of the above minimum in their Own Countries Working Rules and guidelines adopted from requirements may lead to the temporary or time to time by the International Council, the permanent closure of the group by the Inter- (Adopted by the I2th International Council, International Executive Committee and the national Executive Committee. Leuven, 1979) section, as appropriate. Of particular import- ance are the guidelines regarding security and Public Role of Members of Section Governing Amnesty International was founded in the belief These guidelines are designed to ensure that responsible handling of information and the Bodies and Senior Staff Members that the protection of human rights is an inter- local interests and pressures in no way influence guidelines on section work in one's own national and not merely a national responsibility. In order to maintain the independence of sec- or appear to influence the impartiality of Al's The working methods of the movement embody country. judgment, to demonstrate unambiguously the tions, it is recommended to adopt the following this principle and assure that impartiality and From an early stage of the formation of rules: principle of international responsibility under- independence remain fundamental to all AI the group its members shall participate in Al lying the movement and to maintain the distinc- To be a member of a section governing activities in defence of the human rights falling training programs in order to gain a clear un- tion between At's purpose and working methods body or a senior staff member is incompatible within its mandate. derstanding of Al's aims and working methods and those of domestic civil liberties bodies. with holding an elected or appointed top level and to develop training programs for new The structure of the AI movement and the position in the administrative, policy-making, members. division of responsibilities within it are designed 1. INDIVIDUAL CASES law-giving, defence and law enforcement sys- to ensure the international consistency and No group or section shall be involved in The group shall maintain a reasonable and tem of a country; it is also incompatible with cohesiveness of the movement. All AI sections work for or appeals on behalf of an individual consistent level of AI activity in promotion of holding other elected or appointed positions act as a part of the international movement on the prisoner or group of prisoners imprisoned or Al's mandated concerns and shall submit which play a determinant role in foreign policy basis of materials provided or approved by the detained in the country or territory of that reports on its work every six months to the sec- or domestic law enforcement decisions of a international bodies of the movement. group or section. tion and, where necessary, to the International country. AI sections in principle have no special obli- This principle shall apply to cases of Secretariat. Where there is no section, a group To be a member of a section governing gations in relation to violations of human rights known or possible prisoners of conscience as shall submit its reports to the International body or a senior staff member is incompatible in their own countries. Such violations and well as to known or possible victims of torture, Secretariat. with holding a position in top ruling bodies of actions against them are the concern and the cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or political parties. The group must acquire a sound financial responsibility of the entire movement. punishment, including the death penalty, and basis so as to ensure its financial participation An Al member should not accept member- The following guidelines determine the relation to cases of political prisoners detained without in the movement. It must safeguard its finan- ship of a section governing body or a senior of sections and groups to human rights issues trial or subjected to procedures that do not falling within the mandate of Al arising in the cial independence through observance of Al in- staff position while holding any of the above- conform to internationally recognized norms. country or territory in which the section or group ternational guidelines on acceptance of finan- mentioned positions. If elected or accepting Any exception to this procedure shall be is situated. cial contributions and fund-raising. appointment to any such post he or she should decided by the International Executive

Amnesty International Policy 78 Amnesty International Policy 79

the visit of an Al mission to its own country, Committee (IFC) in consultation with the the IEC. A section may seek changes in the mation received from any source relating to subject to considerations of security and confi- section concerned. Any such exception shall legislation in its own country or territory with alleged violations of human rights in any dentiality. If a section has been notified of the he permitted by the IFC only in the best a view to bringing the legislation into con- country or territory are the responsibility of visit of an Al mission to its country, it may interests of the prisoners. formity with standards laid down by inter- the Research Department of the International national law, and may oppose proposed respond to inquiries by confirming the arrival ( d ) A section may request, for its own infor- Secretariat acting under the authority of the of the mission and stating the general concerns mation, a list Of prisoners imprisoned or changes derogating from such standards. It International E xecutive Committee. The IEC of the mission. The section may make no detained in the section's own country or may also seek changes in its national legislation can entrust to a section the collection of public statements concerning the mission territory, whose cases have been taken up by concerning other specific matters falling within information on the section's own country, Al. These repre- without the advance agreement of the IEC. AI for adoption or investigation. This infor- the statutory concerns of subject to agreement with the section con- sentations and any public statements relating cerned on the nature and scope of the collection mation will be provided by the International 6. PUBLIC STATEMENTS AND to such representations shall be made with the of information. The 1EC may permit such Secretariat, subject to considerations of security PUBLICATIONS advance agreement of the 1EC. Such advance activity subject to such limitations and safe- and confidentiality. ( a) Responsibility for the approval of all agreement of the IEC may be given in relation guards as the IEC considers necessary. ( e) A section shall be notified automatically public statements or publications concerning to specific representations or public statements Members of any section may in their upon request of any action to be taken by the human rights violations in a country with an international movement on behalf of an related to such representations or generally. personal capacity and not as members of AI section rests with the IEC who act on Al forward allegations of human rights violations individual case involving the death penalty in behalf of the international movement. Sections 4. DEATH PENALTY falling within the mandate of Al in any country, the section's own country or territory. are not empowered to make public statements ( a) A section may work towards the abolition including their own, to the IS. The details of or to issue publications concerning the human 2. REPRESENTATIONS '10 of the death penalty and against legislation to Al's mandate and the address of the IS should rights situation in their own country. The term GOVERNMENTS reintroduce it in its own country. A section always be provided by the section to any - publications- includes news releases, news- (a) It is not the responsibility of a section to may make representations to its own govern- individual ( whether a member of Al or not) letters, articles, films, sound or video tapes make representations to its government con- ment concerning changes in legislation and who wishes to communicate such allegations. and posters. cerning human rights violations in its own ratification of international covenants and It is not the function of a section to act as a (b) Any exceptions to this principle shall be country. Such representations are the respon- treaties relating to the death penalty. These channel. decided by the IEC in consultation with the sibility of the 1EC and of other sections acting activities do not require authorization from In the course of its activities on the death section concerned. on the basis of information provided by the IS. the IEC. penalty in its own country, a section may, if it ( c) A section may make public statements A section may only make representations In making representations to its own wishes, collect information on the death concerning the ratification of treaties and to its own government concerning violations government with regard to the death penalty, a penalty which it considers useful for the work changes in legislation on the death penalty in of human rights in its own country or territory section may illustrate its point with individual of the section and of the international movement. accordance with guideline 3. if authorized to do so by the IEC. In making cases from its own country in conjunction with No section should make inquiries of a In response to inquiries about human any such representation, after authorization cases from other countries. section in another country concerning prisoners rights violations in their own country a section by the 1EC, the section should always make it No action may be taken by a section on or human rights violations in such other country. shall explain that the responsibility for such clear that its own action in this regard reflects behalf of an individual case of the death action and policy lies with the IEC. The the concern of the international movement as penalty in its own country or territory. Any S. REFUGEES AND ASYLUM a whole. section may refer without further elaboration exception to this procedure shall be decided (a) A section may make representations to to any available Al external information. The A section may make representations to by the IEC in consultation with the section the appropriate authorities in its own country section may also state that Al has taken action the appropriate authorities in its own country concerned. or territory on individual cases of refugees on behalf of individual prisoners, by adoption or territory relating to ratification of treaties No section is required to collect infor- falling within Al's mandate (people or investigation, if this is the case and if the who can and changes in legislation, relating to the mation on the death penalty in its own country. reasonably be expected to become prisoners section has been notified of the fact. death penalty and relating to refugees, in However, in the course of its activities on the of conscience or to be subjected to torture or A section, at its own request, may be accordance with guidelines 3, 4 and 8 respec- death penalty in its own country, a section politically motivated extrajudicial killing and provided with copies of tively. may, if it wishes, collect information on the AI publications and people who would face the imposition or external documents concerning its own country death penalty which it considers useful for the execution of the judicial death penalty). A 3. RATIFICATION OF TREATIES AND and may take part in the distribution of such work of the section and of the international section may monitor and make representations CHANGES IN LEGISLATION documents. (a) A section may make representations to its movement. on government policy on individual cases or general refugee matters. Sections should consult own government with a view to persuading the 7. COLLECTION OF INFORMATION government to sign, ratify or accede to inter- 5. MISSIONS the IS on any refugee question which is not (a) It is not the responsibility of any section to national treaties in the field of human rights or It is not the responsibility of a section to clearly within Al's mandate and on any cases Al investigate or collect information about actual to change or refrain from changing legislation request, plan, brief or collaborate with an of assisting people to emigrate. or possible violations of human rights in any relating to the death penalty. These activities, mission sent by the IEC to the country or ( b) Any public statement relating to repre- country or territory including its own. Such including public statements relating to such territory of that section. sentations to the authorities concerning indi- investigations and the evaluation activities, do not require authorization from A section shall be notified in advance of of all infor- vidual cases shall be made in consultation Amnesty International Policy Amnesty International Policy 80 81

AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL IS with the IS. Sections are obliged to inform the to such representations shall be made with the No governmental donations are to be advance agreement of the IEC. Such advance AND MUST REMAIN A BROADLY IS of any public representations to their accepted by any constituent body of Amnesty agreement of the I EC may be given in relation BASED AND SELE-SUPPORTING government in relation to general refugee International. An exception to this rule may to specific representations or public statements ORGANIZATION. Hence, funds raised and matters. be made for relief (as noted below (4 di)). received by Amnesty International must neither related to such representations or generally. NB: This regulation always applies to grants ( Adopted by the I nternat tonal Council. I 980) narrow nor diminish its volunteer and popular from national governments. It also applies to APPLICATION OF THE GUIDELINES support. intergovernmental bodies of a regional, sub- 9. RELIEF These guidelines apply to AI sections and to AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL IS regional or other non-universal nature. It is not the responsibility of any Al groups and members in countries without Al AND MUST REMAIN. AND BE SEEN Whether other public bodies such as legis- section to distribute relief to prisoners and sections. TO REMAIN, AN INDEPENDENT AND latures, local authorities, other intergovern- their families in their own country or territory. S and the I EC in All communication with the I IMPARTIAL ORGANIZATION. Hence, mental organizations or the judiciary are The AI relief program is maintained by relation to these guidelines should come from the funds requested and accepted by Amnesty included in the restriction is to be decided by sections and groups providing assistance to governing body of the section. International must in no way incur financial the bodies referred to above (3 ii) when individual prisoners allocated to them and by Where authorization is given by the IEC to the dependence, real or apparent, upon any political resolving concrete cases which come before an international relief fund administered by governing body of a section. it is recognized that or interest group singly or in combination, nor them. These bodies are also to decide on the the IS under the authority of the IEC. this authorization may include groups and members limit the freedom of activity and expression acceptability of benefits other than direct Any exception to these procedures shall acting under the authority of the section. enjoyed by the organization, nor direct its grants from governmental sources, such as be determined by the IEC in consultation with All communication with the IS and the IEC in areas of concern. tax-exempt status or programs which permit the sections concerned. relation to these guidelines should be channelled 3. REGULATORY SAFEGUARDS conscientious objectors to work for Amnesty through the office of the Secretary General. The No donation with conditions attached that International in lieu of military service. 10. PRISON CONDITIONS IEC may delegate its authority for decision- are inconsonant with the Statute is to be Annual financial reports are to be pre- Where the prison conditions of an indi- making to the Secretary General who will at such accepted by any constituent body of Amnesty pared by the constituent bodies of Amnesty vidual prisoner or a group of prisoners is a times be acting on behalf of the IEC. The IEC is International (group, section, International International to serve as a public record of matter of concern to Al, action shall be responsible for ensuring that communications Secretariat, etc). income and expenditures. These are to be taken in accordance with the procedure out- from sections in connection with these guidelines Should a constituent body of Amnesty available on request for public inspection at lined under "individual cases". are dealt with as rapidly as the extent of the International be offered or receive a donation any time at the international, national and Where questions of national and inter- required investigations permits. (or donations) from any single source during a local level. national legislation are directly relevant to the Note: Nothing in these guidelines shall preclude budgetary year which amounts to 5% or more regulation of prison conditions within a country of that body's expected income for that year any member of Al from involvement in any issue 4. OTHER PRECAUTIONS or territory in which an AI section is situated, (and is not less than £100), before final relating to his or her own country in a private Funds are not to be accepted from indi- the section may make representations to the acceptance notification of the gift identifying capacity or as a member of any other organ- viduals, institutions, or special interest groups appropriate bodies with a view to ensuring its source, amount and purpose is to be made ization, for example, a domestic civil liberties for projects in which they have a special stake that domestic legislation conforms to the as follows: body, provided that it is made clear that such or when such a contribution can be construed relevant international standards. These repre- For a group or other constituent body member is not acting as a member of Al. as influencing the means or the ends of the sentations and any public statements relating of an Amnesty International section, project. Any proposed exception to this rule is notification is to the governing body of the subject to the notification rule prescribed section, which is to judge the acceptability above (3 ii). of the gift in the light of the above general Guidelines for the Acceptance of Financial Funds are to be neither sought nor accep- principles (2 i, ii , iii). ted from any individual, agency or institution Contributions and Fund-raising by Al for a section or constituent body of for the purpose of establishing or maintaining Amnesty International which is not part of (Revised and adopted by the 13th International Council, Vienna, 1980) a constituent body of Amnesty International a section, notification is to the International (group, section, etc). Any proposed exception Executive Committee, which is to judge to this rule is subject to the notification rule the acceptability of the gift in the light of 1. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE 2. GENERAL PRINCIPLES prescribed above (3 ii). (i) AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL IS A the above general principles (2 i, ii, iii). This document offers guidelines for the raising Funds for relief work, as is customary HUMANITARIAN ORGANIZATION NB: Should a constituent body of Amnesty and receiving of funds by Amnesty Inter- with humanitarian and charitable organizations, DEDICATED TO THE DEFENCE OF International be offered or receive a donation national. Their purpose is to safeguard the may be sought and received by Amnesty SPECIFIC HUMAN RIGHTS AS DE- which amounts to less than 5% of that body's integrity and independence of the organization International from the broadest possible spec- FINED BY ITS STATUTE. Hence, funds expected income for the budgetary year but by setting forth general principles and regu- trum, including governments and governmental sought by and given to Amnesty International whose source, intent or consequence is ques- latory safeguards to guide the relevant agencies. The use of such relief funds is to be must be in consonance with the objectives of tionable, notification should be given as pre- decisions of members and the responsible administered directly by Amnesty International the Statute. scribed above (3 ii). organs of Amnesty International. and should be sought or received only on this Amnesty International Policy 82

diction of a section they are to be received at Chapter 12 hasis. Such funds will he distributed according the discretion of the governing body of the to the Policies and Procedures adopted by the section. and in all other cases at the discretion International Council. of the International Executive Committee. In each instance judgment must be made in ( iv ) Anonymous donations where so desired u an i ts in accordance with the principles ( 2 I. ii. iii) and can he made to Amnesty International in regulations ( 3 i. ii. iii. iv) set forth in these accordance with generally accepted practices guidelines. International a of charitable organirations. Within the juris- Al's work is based on the principle of inter- national responsibility for the protection of The Universal human rights. The rights it is concerned about Declaration of have been agreed by the member states of the United Nations and other similar bodies. Human Rights Although AI members are not expected to be The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is experts on international law, it is essential to the most commonly accepted statement of know the international standards related to A l's "human rights". It was adopted by the United work. Nations General Assembly on 10 December 1948. The date is commemorated every year by Terms and Definitions the worldwide observance of Human Rights Day. The following are some terms used in interna- The 30 articles of the declaration establish the tional law: civil and political, economic, social and cultural rights of all people. The declaration proclaims Convention — both are formal, legally bind- the right to life, liberty and security of person, to & Covenant ing agreements or treaties equality before the law without discrimination, between sovereign states. The to a fair and public trial, to be presumed innocent difference in name does not before proved guilty, to freedom of movement, to imply any legal difference. freedom of thought, conscience and religion, to Protocol — a formal, legally binding agree- freedom of opinion and expression and to free- ment between sovereign states dom of association. which is normally a supple- It declares that no one shall be held in slavery, ment to another treaty or no one shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, agreement . inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment Declaration — a general statement of intent or and that no one shall be arbitrarily arrested, Keep your group going . . . of principle which may not detained or exiled. necessarily be legally binding. The declaration also establishes that everyone Ratification — a decision by a sovereign state has the right to a nationality, to marry, to own to confirm an agreement (as in property, to take part in the government of his or Your local Al group is the focus for Al's campaign in your community. Public ratification of a her country, to work, to receive equal pay for understanding and support is vital. You need to keep up the publicity, letter writing treaty). Signature — indication of the provisional equal work, to receive just and favourable and appeals on behalf of the cases allocated to your group. You need to build public remuneration, to enjoy rest and leisure and to support for the campaigns in which your group participates. You need to recruit new intent of a sovereign state to be bound by the terms of the have an adequate standard of living and edu- members and raise money. cation. The declaration further stipulates that Don't overlook the schools, community centres and local authorities in your area. treaty or agreement. everyone has the right to form and join trade Don't forget the trade unions, religious bodies, sports clubs or shopping centres. unions and the right to seek asylum from perse- Each gives an opportunity for your group to carry Al's message to a wider public. If NOTE: No AI group or member should cution. our campaign is to succeed, we need many more people with us: writing letters, write direct to any international organiz- handing out leaflets and contributing the funds and energy that Many nations have incorporated the provisions signing petitions, ation. Write to Al's International Secre- of the declaration into their constitutions. It is a will give even greater impact to our work. tariat which maintains links with other such statement of principles with an appeal to "every organizations. individual and every social organization" to promote and guarantee respect for the freedoms 84 Human R ghts in International Law Human Rights in International Law 85

on Civil and Political Rights has ushered in a new labour; prohibits arbitrary arrest and detention; The Convention relating to the Status of era in the field of human rights. Over a third of the and provides that all those depri ed of their Refugees. its protocol anti the United Nations world's nations are now, for the first time in liberty shall he treated humanely. It stipulates Declaration on Territorial Asylum provide history, obliged to report publicly to an that anyone sentenced to death has the right to that no one may he forcibly returned to a stat,:. Recognition of the international body directly responsible for moni- seek pardon or commutation of sentence. where he or she may be persecuted. It provides tbr equality before the courts and toring their pertbrmance On what they are doing inherent dignity and of Various codes of ethics for professionals such tribunals and tbr safeguards in criminal and civil to ensure for their citizens the rights proclaimed the equal and as doctors and law enforcement officials pro- procedures; prohibits retroactive criminal legis- in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. vide rules on what they should do when faced inalienable rights of all lation; establishes the right of everyone to Their reports are studied. critical questions are with the torture and ill-treatment of prisoners. members of the human recognition evcrywhere as a person before the asked. and the governments are required to give law, and prohibits arbitrary arrest or unlawful an account of their human rights records. Often New standards continue to be drafted by the family is the interference with privacy. family, home and in this process important information and state, United Nations and other international organ- foundation of freedom, correspondence. The covenant stipulates the ments have come fbrth that governments can be izations. Important examples are the draft Con- right to freedom of thought, conscience and held to later on. To question and probe a vention Against Torture and the draft Body of justice and peace in the religion and provides that the law shall guarantee government has become legitimate. Human rights Principles for the Protection of all Persons under world. protection from discrimination. are no longer an internal affair of states. any Form of Detention or Imprisonment. Rather --the Universal Declaration In particular. the covenant defines the accep- than giving priority to drafting further human of Human Rights table limitations which states may place upon rights standards. however, A I's emphasis is now these rights. In time of public emergency, states Other on seeing that already existing standards are may "derogate from- (be exempt from) the observed. obligations of the covenant provided this does international standards One of the best compilations of international not involve discrimination solely on the grounds The many other standards set by world bodies human rights standards is Human Rights, A of race, colour, sex, language, religion or social such as the United Nations include the Wowing Compilation of International Instruments, and rights it defines. United Nations member origin and provided certain other conditions are of particular relevance to Al: published by the United Nations, sales No. E.78 states were not required to ratify the Universal present. Certain rights are considered absolute. XI V 2, available from United Nations offices in Declaration of Human Rights (the declaration is No derogation from them may be made even in The Standard Minimum Rules for the Treat- most countries. A collection of codes of pro- not of itself legally binding), although member- time of public emergency. These include the ment of Prisoners. These have been adopted fessional ethics may be found in the AI ship in the United Nations is normally considered right to life, the right not to be subjected to torture by the Economic and Social Council of the publication Codes of Professional Ethics. to be an implicit acceptance of the principles of or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or United Nations. They consist of 95 detailed the declaration. It should be noted that under the punishment, the prohibition of slavery and provisions on matters such as accommodation, Charter of the United Nations, member states servitude, the right of everyone to recognition as food, medical services, discipline and punish- International are pledged to take joint and separate action to a person before the law and to freedom of ment, and contacts with the outside world. An monitoring bodies promote universal respect for, and observance thought, conscience and religion. important provision, for example, is rule 31 of, human rights and fundamental freedoms. The covenant established an 18-member which states that corporal punishment shall be The United Nations. Every year thousands of This is a legal obligation. The declaration is an completely prohibited as a punishment for dis- Human Rights Committee which is empowered complaints of human rights abuses reach the authoritative statement of what those human ciplinary offences. to consider reports on compliance that parties to United Nations, many of whose bodies are rights and fundamental freedoms are. the covenant are obliged to provide. But unless a directly or indirectly concerned with human The rules seek "to set out what is generally State Party has made a specific declaration rights. Those that have the most to do with Al's accepted as being good principle and practice in recognizing the right of the committee to hear concerns are: the treatment of prisoners". They can be invoked complaints against it by another State Party —so in all cases of detention or imprisonment. The international far very few have done so — then the committee the Sub-commission on the Prevention of human rights covenants has no power to hear such complaints. The United Nations Declaration on the Pro- Discrimination and the Protection of The Optional Protocol to the International Minorities; The principles enshrined in the Universal tection of All Persons from Torture and Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, attached the Commission on Human Rights; Declaration of Human Rights have been given Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treat- to the covenant, provides a further method of legal force in two covenants: the International ment or Punishment. This declaration pro- the Economic and Social Council; protecting civil and political rights. A state which Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the hibits torture under all circumstances, obliges the General Assembly. is party to this protocol recognizes the competence International Covenant on Economic, Social all states to conduct a prompt and impartial of the Human Rights Committee to consider and Cultural Rights. investigation wherever there are reasonable These bodies are in a clear hierarchy, with the communications from individuals who claim to grounds to believe that torture has been The International Covenant on Civil and sub-commission at the bottom and the General be victims of a violation by that state of any rights Political Rights affirms the right to life; prohibits committed; and stipulates that compensation Assembly at the top. Some sub-commission included in the covenant. torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment must be given to victims in cases where torture decisions need to be approved by the com- The coming into force in 1976 of the Covenant or punishment; prohibits slavery and compulsory has been proved. mission or the council or both; the more Human Rights in International Law Human Rights in Internet onal Law 86 87

remedies on the national level have been sought stated intention is to establish a dialogue with the important ones need to he approved by the Rights. Already. Al has on occasion suhmitted or would be ineffective. A communication, if States Panics in order to achieve respect for the General Assembly as well. information On human rights questions to the rights set tOrth in the covenant. By making The Sub-commission On the Prevention of accepted, goes first to a Working Group and then Chairman of the OA U. to the Sub-commission on the Prevention of Dis- recommendations and giving advice it tries to Discrimination and the Protection of Minorities crimination and the Protection of Minorities. help States Parties overcome any obstacles to consists of 26 independent human rights experts. The matter is then referred to the commission ensure to their citizens the rights set forth in the Although some members are diplomats, many Americas itself which may decide to make further investi- covenant. It is not empowered to recommend are independent lawyers, judges and professors. The Organization of American States (OAS) gations and submit a report to the Economic and sanctions against a State Party which violates As the lowest body in the United Nations' has adopted several important human rights the covenant, human rights hierarchy, the sub-commissions' Social Council. instruments: the Bogota Charter which estab- main task is to make recommendations to its lished the structure of the Organization, the parent body. the Commission on Human Rights. U N ESCO American Declaration of the Rights and Duties of Man which proclaims a numher of individual Although its name does not suggest it. the sub- The Human Rights Like other intergovernmental agencies UNESCO rights and obligations and the Inter-American commission has over the years become increas- Committee (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and ingly involved with matters of direct concern to Charter of Social Guarantees which sets forth Cultural Organization) has adopted a number of The International Covenant on Civil and Political labour and social rights. Al. conventions and recommendations on human Rights provides for an 18-member Human Rights The American Convention on Human Rights, The Commission on Human Rights is the main rights. In 1978 the Executive Board of UNESCO Committee. The members serve in their own the legally binding document for the protection of United Nations body responsible for human adopted procedures for dealing with reports of personal capacities and, according to the covenant, human rights in the Americas, was adopted in rights questions. It consists of 43 members human rights violations relevant to UNESCO should be of high moral character and recognized 1969 and entered into force in 1978 after rati- appointed by governments regularly selected by provided such reports came from victims or the Economic and Social Council. It has the competence in the field of human rights-. fication by the necessary minimum 11 member people with reliable information about the vio- This committee should not be confused with states of the OAS. authority to examine "particular situations which lations. Several hundred such communications the United Nations Commission on Human The Inter-American Commission on Human appear to reveal a consistent pattern of gross and are received on average each year. UNESCO Rights. The committee is responsible to the Rights comprises seven members who are indi- reliably attested violations of human rights-. also aims to promote human rights education, States Parties to the covenant and is independent viduals from countries belonging to the OAS, Communications about human rights violations both in schools and in the community as a whole. may be submitted by non-governmental organiz- of the United Nations apart from having to send acting in their personal capacities. It has a ations. These must show that all possible an annual report to the General Assembly. Its procedure for the examination of communi- International bour cations submitted to it but the findings of the commission are not binding upon any government. Organisation (ILO) Communications may be submitted by individuals The ILO has adopted many standards, among and non-governmental organizations. The com- them several dealing with issues of concern to Al mission examines evidence submitted to it and such as forced labour (involving political sends a draft report to the government concerned. prisoners) and freedom of association. It has a If the government does not respond or take variety of procedures to monitor abuses of these sufficient account of the recommendations, the standards. Information on such questions must commission may prepare a study of human rights be submitted to the ILO through one of its three in that country and, if violations are proved, may constituencies: trade unions, employers organ- make recommendations to both the state con- izations or governments. cerned and the General Assembly of the OAS. It may also make on-site inspections with the Regional human rights consent of the government in question. The Inter-American Court of Human Rights standards is the other body established by the American Africa Convention on Human Rights to protect human rights but it has jurisdiction only in relation to The Heads of States of the Organization of states which have made the declaration recog- African Unity (OAU) decided in July 1979 to nizing the jurisdiction of the court as determined draw up a charter of "human and peoples' by Article 62 of the American Convention on rights" and create machinery for monitoring Human Rights. Few states have accepted the compliance with it. This was completed in 1981. jurisdiction of the court which has therefore been The charter will come into force when ratified by limited to an advisory role within the meaning of a majority of OAU members and will establish Article 64 of the American Convention on the African Commission on Human and Peoples' In the chamber of the United Nations General Assembly, Amnesty International receives the 1978 United Nations Human Rights Prize. Human Rights. Human Rights in International Law 88

Rights. acting in their personal capacities. Chapter 13 Asia Petitions may be submitted by individuals, non- The idea of a regional human rights mechan- governmental organizations or groups of indi- km for Asia has been proposed several times viduals who claim to be victims of violations of and discussed at United Nations level, but as the rights guaranteed by the convention where yet no inter-governmental body has been parties have accepted the right of individual created. Non-governmental groups in the petition. Governments have the automatic right region have brought together human rights or in ules to make complaints about alleged violations of lawyers and other activists from time to time human rights by another government. A situ- and have discussed the value of encouraging ation will be brought before either the European The Working Rules were first adopted by the official regional mechanisms. In November mitted for comment and approval to the Inter- Court of Human Rights or the Committee of International Council in 1976. They have now 1981 an All-Asia Bar Association was formed national Secretariat. Sections are advised to Ministers following investigation by the com- been revised in accordance with subsequent at a meeting of 72 lawyers from 13 Asian coun- consult the secretariat before issuing any major mission. The Committee of Ministers can prescribe decisions of the Council and the International tries at Kochi in Japan. Among the immediate publication on a country or issue, even if it is certain measures to be taken by the state concerned. Executive Committee. principal activities of the association were to based on external Al information to ensure The decisions of the committee and the court are The rules do not and cannot cover all questions be the protection of lawyers in the perform- proper coordination of international efforts. binding. that arise in Al's activities. They give the frame- ance of their professional duties, the monitor- AI sections are required to draw up guide- work within which all members are expected to ing of the human rights situation in each coun- lines for their membership on relations with the work. The principle underlying the rules is that try and the promotion of human rights. news media in their country or territory. They The Middle East all parts of the Amnesty International movement are to appoint a press officer responsible for Official machinery for the protection of human should follow consistent policies and procedures coordination of all such relations and for liaison rights, similar to that in Europe and the Americas, since statements or activities by any member, Europe with the Press Office of the International Secre- does not yet exist in the Middle East, but there group or section may be taken as representing the The Council of Europe has adopted several tariat. have been efforts in this direction. In May 1979 organization as a whole. human rights instruments, among them the Euro- Any news release, information material or the Union of Arab Jurists agreed to a Draft Arab pean Convention on Human Rights. statement to be issued to the news media by an Covenant on Human Rights. Although it was The rights set forth in this convention are Al section, other than that based on recent designed merely to promote wider discussion of Publicity and based partly on the Universal Declaration of external Al information, must be submitted for the issue and has no legal status, it is a significant Human Rights. The convention includes elaborate Publications comment and approval to the International indication of the needs felt by jurists in the Arab The term "publications" refers to news Secretariat. implementation procedures. Under its terms a world. The draft covenant was adopted at a Commission and Court of Human Rights have releases, newsletters, reports, films, sound or symposium on "Human Rights and Fundamental An AI section wishing to mention or list been set up which, together with the Committee video tapes, leaflets and posters intended for Freedoms in the Arab Homeland" which also names of prisoners in a publication or statement of Ministers of the Council of Europe, a political public use. All publications must be in accor- recommended the creation of a permanent non- is required to use only names of prisoners whose body, are responsible for the implementation of dance with Al's mandate and respect the governmental Arab Committee to protect human cases have been allocated to groups in that the convention. organization's standards of accuracy and rights and fundamental freedoms in the Arab section or mentioned in recent external AI The Council of Europe's Parliamentary impartiality. world. The proposed committee would include information. Assembly recommended in 1980 that the con- Amnesty International Publications (AlPs) representatives of popular and professional insti- Groups must strictly observe the instructions vention be amended so that it would no longer are issued by the International Secretariat under tutions as well as prominent figures known for in all prisoner dossiers about publicity on particular allow for the death penalty in time of peace. The the authority of the International Executive their efforts on behalf of human rights and cases. assembly has also recommended that the right of Committee. freedoms. Al sections are responsible for the prepar- conscientious objection to military service be Al sections are responsible for all AI publi- ation and use of audio-visual materials in their included in the convention. Both proposals cations, other than AlPs, issued in their country A series of detailed circulars describing Al's country or territory. Care must be taken to ensure require a decision by the Committee of Ministers or territory. This applies to their translations of work with international organizations was issued that they reflect Al's mandate and conform to its before they can be put into effect. AlPs and external documents issued by the in 1979 and 1980. These are available from all standards of accuracy and impartiality. In par- The European Commission on Human Rights International Secretariat as well as to publi- sections under the general Al Index category: ticular, the abuse of national symbols should be consists of one member for each state which is cations drafted by Al groups in the section. All IOR 03. avoided. party to the European Convention on Human publications must clearly indicate the authority The International Executive Committee under which they are issued (for example, has the authority to review and if necessary "published by the Mexican Section of Amnesty prohibit any document or statement by an AI International"). section if there is reason to believe that it would Any publication prepared by an AI section create undesirable international repercussions. that includes information other than that based The International Executive Committee also has on recent external AI information must be sub- the right to disclaim publicly any publication not Working Rules Working Rules 90 9 1

in the Action Calendar issued by the Inter- Nsued in accordance with the procedures and t hat it s action reflects the concern of the inter- countries by an individual or team to conduct national Secretariat. Any plans for other major guidelines established by the International national movement . business on behalf of Amnesty International section campaigns should be discussed with the Council. Al members should not write to third party relating to its concerns, or to discuss member- International Secretariat to ensure proper inter- go%ernments ( governments in countries Other ship questions on behalf of the International national coordination. Statements on than their Own or the target country ) or rep Executive Committee. All AI missions must be resentatives of third party governments unless 20. Any action initiated by one section (in- approved and funded by the International Exe- members' countries they are specifically requested or authorized to cluding international appeals on behalf of one cutive Committee. The briefing of Al missions is the responsibility of the International Secretariat. 11. Al sections are not empowered to make do so by the International Secretariat. prisoner) which would involve members and groups in other sections must not be undertaken statements or to issue publications about the Relations with international non-govern- It is not the responsibility of an AI section without prior consultation with the International human rights situation in their own countries or mental organizations and intergovernmental to plan, brief or collaborate with an Al mission Secretariat. This includes actions by coordination territories, apart from matters to do with rati- organizations are the responsibility of the sent to its country or territory. fication of treaties and changes in legislation on International Secretariat acting under the author- and professional groups. An AI section shall be notified in advance the death penalty. Any exceptions to this rule ity of the International Executive Committee. 21. Al sections, groups and members are of a mission to its country or territory, subject to must he decided by the International Executive Al sections, groups and members should not required to send any new prisoner-related infor- considerations of security and confidentiality. If Committee in consultation with the section write to headquarters or officials of intergovern- mation they collect to the International Secretariat. the section has been notified of the mission, it concerned. mental bodies ( such as the United Nations) or to Sections, groups or members who wish to do may respond to inquiries only by confirming the 12. In response to inquiries about human rights international non-governmental organizations research work are required to consult the Inter- arrival of the mission and stating its terms of violations in its own country or territory an AI unless specifically requested to do so by the national Secretariat. reference. International Secretariat. Sections wishing to section is required to explain that responsibility 22. Al groups are required to follow carefully approach non-governmental organizations in other for AI policy on such matters lies with the Inter- the instructions and recommended actions pro- No visit to a country by any AI member countries must consult the AI section of that national Executive Committee. The section may vided in the Amnesty International Handbook, shall be considered an AI mission unless it has country or the International Secretariat if there is refer such inquiries to the International Secre- the "general instructions" and "recommended been approved as such by the International no section. tariat or provide without further elaboration any actions" included in each prisoner dossier and to Executive Committee. available Al external information and state that Al may provide and exchange external observe carefully the difference between adoption Coordination group members are required Al has taken action on behalf of individual information with other organizations and may and investigation cases as explained in "Status to consult the International Secretariat before prisoners if this is the case. send representatives to attend their meetings and of Case" documents in each dossier. The decision travelling to the countries with which their group 13. AI sections may be provided with copies of speak on matters within Al's mandate. However. to adopt or investigate any case rests with the is concerned. This procedure applies even when Amnesty International publications and external no public actions such as news conferences, International Secretariat. No unusual action they are travelling in their private capacity. documents on their own countries or territories, demonstrations or public meetings may be should be undertaken without prior consultation if they so request, and may distribute such organized or sponsored jointly by Al and any with the relevant coordination group, section or AI members travelling in their private documents. other organization without the approval of the International Secretariat. capacity are not authorized to undertake Al relevant Al section governing body. Nor may business such as research or work related to 23. If a case has been closed by the Inter- any group or member sign any other organiz- relief or individual prisoner cases (including External relations national Secretariat, group activities on the ation's appeals or resolutions in the name of AI those allocated to their group) without first Al sections are required to appoint people prisoner's behalf must cease. Private initiatives without section approval. The International consulting and receiving the approval of the responsible for contacts with their own govern- may be undertaken on the prisoner's behalf, but Secretariat advises against any such joint International Secretariat. This procedure does ment, visits to embassies and contacts with other all correspondence must be signed by someone activities with other organizations, particularly not apply to visits involving normal consultation organizations. and to draw up guidelines and other than the group members who have on country-related matters. It should be and discussion within the movement on organ- procedures for such contacts. previously been writing about the case to the emphasized to other organizations that Al does izational matters. authorities. It is not the responsibility of an AI section not undertake joint activities with other bodies in AI groups wishing to send members to to make representations to its own government order to protect its independence and impartiality. 24. Exiles, refugees and other foreign nationals countries to visit prisoners or prisoners' families about human rights violations in its own country This policy does not reflect either approval or who are members or supporters of AI are not are required to consult and obtain the approval of or territory. Such representations are the respon- disapproval of the aims or judgments of other permitted to send letters to government authorities the International Secretariat in advance and if sibility of the International Executive Corn- organizations. in their own country. Where such nationals are possible to obtain the consent of the family mittee and of other sections acting on information members of local groups, they should not be before making such a visit. Any other activities provided by the International Secretariat. An Al involved in case work on their own country but (such as distribution of relief, visits to lawyers or section may make representations to its own Case work should work on behalf of other prisoners. government about violations of human rights and campaigns contacts) in the course of such a visit are also in its own country or territory only if author- subject to the approval of the International Al sections are expected to inform the ized to do so by the International Executive Secretariat. Such visits are not AI missions and International Secretariat of their plans for Missions/Al travel Committee. ln making any such authorized members are not empowered to speak or act in participation in campaigns and actions announced 25. The term "mission" refers to visits to representation the section should always stress the name of AI. Working Rules Working Rules 92 93

Al members travelling in their private Correspondence from Al members to the Membership, Members of Al section governing bodies capacity or on behalf of other organizations International E xecutive Committee must be and senior stall members are required to observe should make every effort to avoid the impression channelled through their section. Correspon- internal structures and the guidelines, "Public Role of Members of A I that they represent A I or are travelling on Al dence to the International Executive Committee information handling Section Governing Bodies and Senior Staff business. If asked, they must stress that they or its individual members should be sent to the Members-, recommended by the International have no authority to make any statement related Secretary General's Office at the International Al sections and groups are required to Council. Secretariat. to AI or its concerns. observe the guidelines for sections and groups Coordination groups are required to observe Al members travelling in their private Al sections may make complaints to the adopted by the International Council. the rule that members of the group should not be capacity to countries in which there are major Al International Executive Committee and, if they Recognition of an Al section is the respon- nationals of the country involved, exiles from concerns are advised to inform their section are not satisfied with the response, to the Inter- sibility of the International Executive Committee. that country or individuals with political affili- beforehand. national Council. In the event of disagreement The section's statute must be in accordance with ations or interests which would reduce their between a coordination or other group and any the Al Statute. Any changes in a section's statute political objectivity. International part of the International Secretariat, the relevant concerning aims, methods and objects must be Coordination groups are required to consult Al section may bring the matter to the attention approved by the International Executive Com- the International Secretariat before establishing cooperation of the Secretary General. If the disagreement mittee before they come into force. information contacts outside their own country. All constituent bodies of Al are expected involves a question of AI policy and is not Al section governing bodies are respon- Al sections, groups and members are to cooperate with other parts of the movement in resolved the matter shall be referred to the sible for the proper functioning of the Al required to observe strictly the guidelines on working for the aims of Al. International Executive Committee and, if neces- membership in their country or territory. The responsible handling of information. All internal Local groups must observe the guidelines sary, to the International Council. Every effort governing body reviews the activities of the documents issued by the sections and coordin- tbr double and triple adoptions. Coordination shall be made to resolve any dispute without members and groups, ensures their proper ation groups should be clearly marked as groups must cooperate closely with the relevant publicity. functioning and has the power to close groups or internal. terminate membership or recommend such action coordination groups in other sections. Profes- Al sections are required to appoint a to the International Secretariat when the work of sional groups must cooperate closely with member responsible for security who should such groups or individuals is prejudicial to Al. related professional groups and committees in Finance, maintain contact as necessary with the Inter- other sections. fund-raising and relief AI section governing bodies are responsible national Secretariat and recommend measures Al sections are required to inform the for approving groups before asking the Inter- to protect the section's offices, information and International Secretariat of the names and Al sections are required to appoint a national Secretariat to register them. activities. treasurer and to submit standardized financial responsibilities of the elected officers of the Members of the International Executive Consistent failure on the part of AI sections, reports each year to the international Treasurer. section, staff members and other individuals or Committee and of the International Secretariat groups and members to observe security instruc- and other Al bodies shall, in the exercise of their groups appointed to undertake functions on Al sections are required to adhere to the tions, including those listed in the Amnesty Inter- Al functions, refrain from any action incompat- behalf of the section board. They are also Guidelines for the Acceptance of Financial national Handbook and all prisoner dossiers, required to inform the secretariat of the changes Contributions and Fund-raising to Amnesty ible with their functions. In particular they shall may be drawn to the attention of the International of address of their section office, groups and International. not seek or accept instructions from any national Executive Committee and may result in restricted other bodies within the section. or international entity, other than Al bodies. No fund-raising project shall be carried out access to sensitive materials. AI sections are required to submit an by a constituent body of Al in another country annual report on their activities to the Inter- where there is an Al section without the consent national Executive Committee. of that section. Al groups are required to submit reports on AI sections must appoint a relief officer to their prisoner-related activities to the Inter- ensure the section's adherence to Al's relief national Secretariat and their sections every six policy and procedures and advise groups and months. New information obtained about any case should be reported immediately to the Inter- members on their relief activities. Relief pay- national Secretariat. ments to individual prisoners, released prisoners or prisoners' families must be made in accor- Coordination groups and professional groups dance with the recommendations of the Inter- are required to submit reports on their activities national Secretariat and be reported to the to the International Secretariat and their sections secretariat every six months. twice a year. No AI section, group or member shall ask a An Al section or coordination group may section, group or member in another country or operate a relief program on behalf of the Inter- territory for information about human rights national Secretariat only with the agreement of questions or prisoner cases there. the Relief Committee and the section concerned.

Commonly Asked Questions 95

Chapter 14 9. Why does Amnesty International oppose torture and the death penalty. This awareness torture and the death penalty in all eases? has prompted the news media to pay much more Both are cruel, inhuman and degrading. The attention to human rights violations. Al has also United Nations has declared an absolute ban on helped promote impnwed international standards torture, recognizing that there are no circum- for the protection of human rights. Bodies like the stances under which it can be justified. It has also United Nations have taken important steps, such onl s e uestions recognized the desirability of abolishing the death as declaring a universal ban on torture. Perhaps penalty, which is an unjust and irrevocable most significant is the fact that many prisoners, punishment. Al's opposition to the cruel treat- their families and lawyers have thanked Al for ment of prisoners does not mean that it condones I. Where does Amnesty International get its government or political system. It believes its efforts on their behalf. Although AI does not any violent crimes of which they may be suspected money from? human rights must be respected universally. It claim credit for the release of prisoners, many or convicted. At the same time, it insists that Amnesty International relies on donations from takes up cases whenever it considers there are former prisoners have said that it was inter there are no circumstances under which the state its members and the public. It must continue to reliable grounds for concern, regardless of the national pressure that secured their freedom or is justified in torturing or executing its own be • and be seen to be — financially independent. ideology of the government or the beliefs of the saved their lives. citizens. By far the greatest part of the movement's funds victims. What do Amnesty International members come from small individual donations, member- 6. Isn't Amnesty International interfering in What countries does Amnesty Inter- do about human rights in their own ship fees, and local fund-raising drives. These the internal affairs of states? national regard as the worst violators of country? help to build a broad popular movement, backed Human rights transcend national boundaries. human rights? As an individual citizen or as a member of a civil up by financial support from the public throughout does not grade governments according to This principle has been recognized by the world's Al liberties group, anyone is free to become the world. their human rights records or establish a "black- involved in domestic cases or causes. However, main intergovernmental organizations. The very list". Not only does repression in various when working for Al they must respect the 2. What about money from governments? fact that the United Nations has a permanent AI does not seek or receive government money Commission on Human Rights which deals with countries prevent the free tlow of information principle of international protection of human about human rights abuses, but the techniques of for its budget. It will accept contributions for human rights violations around the world is proof rights. Al members and groups do not work on repression and their impact vary widely. Instead humanitarian relief to prisoners, but only if AI that the human rights practices of individual cases in their own countries or make statements of attempting comparisons Al concentrates on administers the funds itself. Under no circum- governments are a legitimate concern for scrutiny about them. Under Al's rules, however, they trying to end the specific violations of human stances will it accept donations from any source by the international community. Al works on may work for the abolition of the death penalty in rights in each case. earmarked for work on a specific country or case. that principle and seeks observance of the human their own country, press their own government to ratify international human rights treaties, try to 3. How does Amnesty International get its rights standards that governments themselves Aren't human rights a luxury, especially ensure that refugees are not sent back to countries information? have adopted internationally. in less developed countries? where they might face torture or execution or Al uses a wide variety of sources, both public There can be no double standard on human 7. Why does Amnesty International take up become prisoners of conscience, and play a part and private. The International Secretariat sub- rights. They apply to everyone everywhere. Nor cases of people who have broken their in local human rights education programs. scribes to hundreds of newspapers and journals do economic, social and cultural rights conflict country's laws? and gets transcriptions of radio broadcasts, with civil and political rights: both are essential Is it true that Amnesty International has National laws themselves often violate inter- government bulletins, reports from legal experts, in any society at all stages of development. links with intelligence agencies? national human rights standards. In many countries letters from prisoners and their families. It also No. Al is independent of all governments and emergency legislation drastically curtails the What does Amnesty International do for sends fact-finding missions to assess situations government agencies. It acts openly and does not rights of all citizens and provides for lengthy political prisoners who have used or advo- on the spot, interview prisoners and meet gov- conduct espionage. No evidence has ever been detention without charge or trial. In examining cated violence? ernment officials. produced to substantiate claims —made by each situation, AI uses a single, universal stan- AI takes no position on the question of violence. governments of the left and right — that Al is 4. How does Amnesty International make dard — internationally recognized human rights. It opposes the torture and execution of all linked in any Way to national intelligence sure it has the facts right? If a state is violating thdse rights, Al comes to the prisoners and advocates fair and prompt trials services. All information that reaches the International defence of the victims. for all political prisoners, regardless of whether Secretariat is carefully sifted by the research they are accused of using or advocating violence. How do Amnesty International members 8. What is Al's position on abuses committed participate in policy-making? staff. Details are cross-checked and care is taken However, Al seeks the immediate and uncon- by opposition groups? Al is a participatory movement. Through to avoid presenting any unconfirmed allegation ditional release only of individuals imprisoned as a fact. Before any statement is issued the text Al holds as a matter of principle that the tor- the groups and sections members decide on the for the non - violent exercise of their human rights policy of the movement they finance. All sections is vetted at several different levels of the ture and execution of prisoners by anyone, as their very detention violates the Universal have their own internal structures for involving secretariat to make sure it is accurate and comes including opposition groups, can never be Declaration of Human Rights. within Al's mandate. accepted. Governments have the responsibility their members and send representatives to the Does AI get results? 5. Isn't Amnesty International a political of dealing with such abuses, acting in con- International Council meeting where delegates Al has helped increase public awareness through- organization? formity with international standards for the from all over the world determine the movement's out the world about political imprisonment, AI is impartial. It does not support or oppose any protection of human rights. program. Index ••

Acceptance of funds, see Fund-raising Death penalty 10, II , 12, 16, 17, 73-74, 78, 95 Addresses 59 Decision making in Al 27 Administration Department 30 Declaration of Stockholm 17, 73-74 Adoption 8, 52 Declaration on the Protection of All Persons from double and triple 53 Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Advisory Group on Information Handling and Treatment or Punishment 85 Technology 27 • Aftercare 55 Delegations 45, 56 Amnesties 9 Demonstrations 46 "Disappearances" 12, 53 Annual report 20, 36, 39 Documentation Centre 29 Appeals 17, 44, 45 Double adoption 53 Approaches to companies 22 Approaches to other organizations 43, 57, 90 Education, human rights 22, 49 Educational institutions 48 Benenson, Peter 3 Embassies 45, 56 Borderline Committee 27 Emigration, see Refugees Espionage 9 European Commission on Human Rights 88 Campaign and Membership Department 29, 51 European Communities 21 Campaign for the Abolition of Torture 15 Europe, Council of 21, 88 see also Torture Evaluation of Techniques, committee for Campaign for the Prisoners of the Month 18, 20, 23 systematic 27 Campaigns 15, 90 Executions 11 Case sheet 53 see also Death Penalty Case work 14, 15, 50-58, 77, 89 Executive Assistants 29, 51 Codes of Ethics 16, 85 Exile organizations 43 Commercial relations 22 Extrajudicial executions I 1, 12 Committees, international 27-28 Commonly Asked Questions 94 Companies, approaches to 22 Fair trial 9, 10, 52 Conferences, Al international 12, 15, 16, 17 Families 58 Conscientious Objection 9, 72-73 Films 46 Contacts, Al 57 Finances 31, 34, 67, 92 Cooperation with other organizations 43, 57, 90 Financial Control Committee 27, 34 Coordination 42, 51 Fund-raising 31-33, 92, 94 Coordination groups 25, 51 guidelines 34, 80-82 Coordinators, country 25 campaigns 19 Governments, approaches to 55, 56 Regional Action Networks 19 national, representations to 20, 78, 90 target sector 21 Group cases 53 Urgent Actions 17 Groups Correspondence with Al local 24, 50-58 Al contacts 57 coordination 25 government authorities 55, 56 guidelines 74-77 the International Secretariat 51 professional 21, 25-26 prisoner and family 58 Guidelines After three yean in one of Haiti's most dreaded prisons, Marc Romulus was reunited with his son, Patrice. The M-year-old teacher had see also Letters for Acceptance of Financial Contributions 80-82 been arrested on suspicion of opposing the government. An Amnesty International group in the Fedor& Republic of Germany was put to Council, see International Council work on the case. The government said he was one of a number of "unknown persons" but the Amnesty International campaign con- for Sections and Groups 74-77 Country campaigns 19 tinued. It took two years for the government to admit he win in detention, although he was then described as an "unrepentant terrorist". on Conscientious Objection 72 Covenants, international human rights: see Amnesty International continued to work on Marc Romulus' behalf. In September 1977 he was included in an amnesty for political on AI sections' activities concerning human prisoners. The man who the government it one stage said did not exist was at last reunited with his family. International rights violations in their own countries 77-80 Index Index 98

Travel, see Missions Human Rights Committee 84, 86 Petitions 18, 44 UN Sub-Commission on the Prevention of 12 Treasurer 26, 34, 66 Human Rights Education 22, 49 Political killings by governments 11, Discrimination and the Protection of Trials, political 9, 10 Political parties 49 Minorities 86 Political prisoners 9 Triple adoption 53 Universal Declaration of Human Rights 83 Impartiality 9, 14, 34, 36, 40, 68 Political trials 9, 10 Impartiality and the Defence of Human Rights Press and Publications Department 30 Urgent Actions 16, 17-18, 23 68-70 Press Officers 36-38 Violence 9, 70 Unite francophone 30 Information, see Research Press relations 35-38, 56 Al and the Use of Violence 70-72 United Nations 16, 21, 83, 84, 85 InfoTech 27 Pressure 43 Visits 38, 91 UNESCO 21, 87 Inter-American Commission on Human Rights 87 Prison conditions 12, 13, 80 see also Delegations and Missions UN Commission on Human Rights 21, 86 International Executive Committee (IEC) 26, 66 Prisoner dossier 52, 53 UN Congress on the Prevention of Crime and the International Committee of the Red Cross 12 Prisoners of Conscience 7, 8, 9, 52 Treatment of Offenders 12, 17 International committees 26-27 Prisoners of Conscience Week 18 Weekly Update Service 36 International Council (ICM) 7, 25, 65-66 Prisoners of the Month Campaign 18 UN High Commissioner for Refugees 13 Working Rules 89-93 International Covenant on Civil and Political Public actions 18, 46 Rights 84, 86 Publications 20, 35, 39, 79, 89 International Covenant on Economic, Social and Publicity 18, 20, 35-38, 56, 79, 89 Cultural Rights 84 International Labour Organisation (ILO) 87 International Organizations, relations with 21, 43, Questions, commonly asked 94 90 International Secretariat (IS) 14, 28, 29, 51, 67 Investigation 8, 9, 10, 52, 53 Ratification of treaties 78 Refugees 13, 79, 85 Regional Action Networks 19 Killings, political by governments 11-12 Regional human rights standards 87 Relations with other organizations 43, 57, 90 Relief 20, 58, 80, 92 Language 51, 59 Religious groups 22, 48 Lawyers groups 21 Reporting 50 Legal Aid 10 Representations to national governments 20, 78, 90 Legal Office 29 Research 14 Letters 18, 44, 59-62 Research Department 8, 14, 29, 51 Lobbying 45, 49 Researchers 8, 29 Local groups, see Groups Responsibilities of an Al Group 50-58 Responsible handling of information 42, 50

Mandate 7, 15, 40, 64 Media, news 35-38 Sample letters 60-62 see also Press relations and Publicity SAPS (South Asia Publications Service) 30 Medical Advisory Board 16, 27 Schools 22 Medical groups 16, 21 Secretariat, see International Secretariat Members 23, 24, 65 Secretary General 28 Military, security and police transfers 22 Sections 25-26 Missions 19, 20, 78, 91 Security 42, 50, 93 Special actions 19 Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Newsletter 16, 18, 20, 36, 39 Prisoners 12, 13, 85 News media 35-38 Statute 7, 36, 63-67 see also Press relations and Publicity Stockholm Declaration 17, 73-74 News releases 37, 38 Subscribers 23-24 Nobel Peace Prize 6 Symbolic actions 47 Non-governmental organizations, see SYSTEC (Committee for Systematic Evaluation of International Organizations and Target Sector Techniques) 27 Work

Target Sector Work 21, 22, 47-49 Organization of African Unity (OAU) 13, 87 Teachers groups 22 Organization of American States (OAS) 21, 87 Telegrams 59, 62 Organizations, international 21, 43, 90 Torture 10, 17, 95 PA1 (Publicaciones Atnnistia Internacional) 30 Campaign for the Abolition of 10, 15-16 Performances 47 Trade Unions 21, 47-48 á