Amnesty International Day

Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Sep 14, 2023 By Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Originally Published on Mar 08, 2022
Amnesty International Day sheds light on how this organization fights for justice.
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Where is Amnesty International Day celebrated?

Originating from London, this international day is celebrated across the countries of Europe and even in the United States of America. Although the main focus remains the UK, the day is observed in many other parts of the world too.

Who is Amnesty International Day ​celebrated by?

The day is celebrated vastly by those who agree with and appreciate the efforts of this organization, and the people who fight for the same causes as Amnesty International.

When did Amnesty International Day ​first start?

This day began in 1962, a year after the foundation of Amnesty International.

Who started Amnesty International Day?

Peter Benenson, a British lawyer, is known to have started Amnesty International on this day in 1961, and subsequently, this day as well.

Peter Benenson was inspired by his friend Louis Blom-Cooper.

History And Timeline

May 28 is celebrated in honor of the inauguration of Amnesty International. The day is observed to learn more about how to get justice against the abuses and tortures that certain people face. The day focuses on how to generate action against the violations of basic human rights.

Amnesty International Formed

In 1961, the organization was created in London by Peter Benenson.

May 28, 1961

Official Naming

Even though the institution was founded in 1961, the official naming of the organization took place on September 30, 1962. This was also the year that Amnesty International Day took place for the first time on May 28.

1962

Awarded Nobel Peace Prize

Due to the incredible work of the organization for humanity and human rights protections, Amnesty International was awarded the 1977 Nobel Peace Prize.

1977

Awarded United Nations Prize

In 1978, the organization was awarded the United Nations Prize in the Field of Human Rights because of its work for human rights and research.

1978

Increase In Membership

The number of memberships of Amnesty International increased from 15,000 to 200,000 by 1979.

1979

Traditions And Customs

One of the major traditions of the day is to educate others about violations of human rights. They should also be educated about the fight of the institution, Amnesty International, for human rights protections and human dignity.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate Amnesty International Day

It is believed by members that the day should be celebrated by spreading awareness regarding the torture and abuses that some humans are facing. Members also organize events to educate people about the government policy and government action that is needed to be taken for protecting women and human rights.

  • On this day, Amnesty International organizes events to talk about how they generate actions against death penalties and other jeopardized human rights.
  • In recent years, Amnesty International has shifted its focus to women's rights. Taking note of that, May 28 is also celebrated as Menstrual Hygiene Day.
  • Special events are held in schools and colleges to celebrate this day all across the world.

What is the main goal of Amnesty International?

The main agenda of the organization is to protect human dignity and raise awareness regarding human rights issues. 

What is the history of Amnesty International?

The organization was founded in 1961 by Peter Benenson to work against the abuses faced by prisoners.

What is Amnesty International fighting for?

They have created a global movement in order to promote human rights and human protection.

What is the significance of Amnesty International Day?

The day signifies the importance of justice and respect deserved by people and commemorates how this organization is working towards it.

How is Amnesty International Day different from Human Rights Day?

Even though the basic agenda of both days are quite similar, the basic difference lies in their foundation. Amnesty International Day was founded by Peter Benenson, whereas Human Rights Day was initiated by the United Nations General Assembly. They are also observed on separate dates; the former is on May 28 and the latter on December 10.

Who is the CEO of Amnesty International?

The position of CEO is not valid as it is an NGO. Salil Shetty is the current Secretary General of Amnesty International.

How many countries are members of Amnesty International?

The members or supporters of the organization are situated across 140 countries.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Thursday, May 28, 2020
  • Friday, May 28, 2021
  • Saturday, May 28, 2022
  • Sunday, May 28, 2023
  • Tuesday, May 28, 2024

United Kingdom

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Written by Rajnandini Roychoudhury

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

Rajnandini Roychoudhury picture

Rajnandini RoychoudhuryBachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

With a Master of Arts in English, Rajnandini has pursued her passion for the arts and has become an experienced content writer. She has worked with companies such as Writer's Zone and has had her writing skills recognized by publications such as The Telegraph. Rajnandini is also trilingual and enjoys various hobbies such as music, movies, travel, philanthropy, writing her blog, and reading classic British literature. 

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