Activists

Russian activists awarded European rights prize - 22 October 2009

The 2009 Sakharov prize for human rights has been awarded to Russian activists Oleg Orlov, Sergei Kovalev and Ludmila Alekseeva.

Iran must overturn sentences issued by post-election 'show trial' - 21 October 2009

Iranian-American academic Kian Tajbakhsh has been sentenced to 15 years in prison by the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, for his alleged part in the protests following the June presidential election.

Peru must build on plans to legalise abortion - 20 October 2009

Amnesty International has called on the Peruvian authorities to step up recent efforts to decriminalise abortion in the country.

Afghan government must set out credible presidential election plan - 20 October 2009

The Afghan government and its international supporters must immediately set out a clear and effective plan to ensure a credible second round of presidential election voting.

Uruguay must annul law that protects police and military torture suspects - 20 October 2009

A law in Uruguay that has allowed the police and military to get away with torture and murder should be annulled.

Colombian human rights activist seriously injured in gun attack - 19 October 2009


The invaluable work carried out by human rights defenders in Colombia must be respected by all the parties to the armed conflict, Amnesty International has said.

Ugandan 'anti-homosexuality' bill threatens liberties and human rights defenders - 16 October 2009

The draft "Anti-Homosexuality Bill" introduced on Wednesday in Uganda's parliament would violate human rights and should be withdrawn immediately.

President Kadyrov libel trial reveals danger faced by human rights activists - 7 October 2009

A Moscow court has found in favour of the president's libel suit against human rights activist Oleg Orlov who accused him of "being responsible" for the murder of human rights worker Natalia Estemirova.

Afghan candidates must stop intimidation of journalists - 7 October 2009

Since the August polls, Amnesty International has received evidence of harassment and violence against the media by supporters of President Hamid Karzai and his chief election rival, Abdullah Abdullah.

Family demands release of 'outspoken' Yemeni journalist - 6 October 2009

Muhammad al-Maqalih was abducted by a group of men in an unmarked van. It is thought  he is being held because of his criticism of the government over the armed clashes in Sa'da.