Amnesty International has recently been in the news due to its vocal stance on various human rights issues globally. The organization has condemned actions in conflict zones, such as the ongoing violence in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis in Syria, where it has highlighted the plight of detainees and the impact of military strikes on civilians. Additionally, Amnesty has been involved in advocating for the rights of marginalized groups, including Iranian women, and has responded to calls for accountability regarding alleged genocidal actions against Palestinians.
Founded in 1961, Amnesty International is a non-governmental organization headquartered in the United Kingdom, dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights worldwide. With over eight million members and supporters, it conducts research and advocacy on a wide range of issues, including freedom of expression, the abolition of the death penalty, and the rights of refugees. The organization operates through a network of national sections and works to hold governments and other entities accountable for human rights violations, often mobilizing public campaigns to raise awareness and drive change.
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Donald Trump has been inaugurated as the 47th president, backed by billionaires like Elon Musk. This has raised concerns about the growing wealth gap and the influence of the super-rich on politics. Campaigners are calling for higher taxes on the wealthy to address inequality and fund global initiatives.
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Two Israeli hostages, Evyatar David and Guy Gilboa-Dalal, appeared in a Hamas video pleading for their release, intensifying calls for a ceasefire. Their families are advocating for negotiations, while Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu faces political pressure regarding military actions in Gaza. The situation remains tense as negotiations continue.
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Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on March 12, 2025, upon returning from Hong Kong, following an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant for crimes against humanity related to his anti-drug campaign. He is the first Asian leader to face trial at the ICC, where he is accused of overseeing extrajudicial killings during his presidency from 2016 to 2022.
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Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte appeared before the International Criminal Court (ICC) on March 14, 2025, following his arrest on murder charges related to his controversial 'war on drugs.' This marks a significant moment in international law as Duterte is the first Asian leader to be arrested under an ICC warrant.
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Hungary's parliament has passed a law banning Pride events, citing 'child protection' legislation that prohibits the depiction of homosexuality to minors. The law allows authorities to use facial recognition technology to identify attendees, drawing sharp criticism from human rights groups and LGBTQ+ advocates. Organizers vow to proceed with the Pride march despite potential fines.
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Canada's Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly condemned the recent executions of several Canadian citizens in China, emphasizing ongoing diplomatic tensions. The Chinese government defended the actions, citing strict penalties for drug-related crimes. Canada continues to advocate for clemency for its citizens facing similar charges.
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Indonesia's parliament has approved controversial revisions to military law, allowing armed forces personnel to hold more civilian positions. Critics warn this could lead to a resurgence of military influence reminiscent of the Suharto era, raising concerns over human rights and democratic governance.
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As the conflict continues, families are torn apart by violence. Ahmed Wael Dababish, released after 13 months in detention, learns of the deaths of his wife and daughter. Meanwhile, Thai workers in Israel face deadly attacks, highlighting the human cost of the ongoing crisis.
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Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited El Salvador's Terrorism Confinement Center, where Venezuelans deported by the U.S. are held. The deportations, linked to alleged gang affiliations, have raised human rights concerns and legal questions about the detainees' status.
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Hamdan Ballal, an Oscar-winning filmmaker, was assaulted by Israeli settlers and soldiers in the West Bank shortly after his film won an Academy Award. The incident occurred during Ramadan as he documented a settler attack, leading to his arrest and alleged mistreatment by Israeli forces.
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On March 29, 2025, clashes during a pro-Palestinian protest in Abuja led to the deaths of 11 protesters and one soldier. The Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) organized the demonstration, which was met with military force, resulting in injuries and arrests. Amnesty International criticized the military's actions as excessive.
