AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL

Public Statement

AI Index: EUR 47/001/2005 (Public)

News Service No: 083

4 April 2005

Amnesty International expresses sympathy on Pope's death

Amnesty International’s Secretary General, Irene Khan, today expressed sympathy and solidarity with the Catholic community following the passing of Pope John-Paul II.

"The strong position taken by the Pope in defence of human dignity, and in particular his calls for the abolition of the death penalty, have had an enormous impact," Ms Khan said.

"Amnesty International will continue to work alongside the Catholic community on issues championed by John Paul including the abolition of the death penalty, limiting the human impact of conflict and social justice."