I have been a member of Amnesty International for many years, but I canceled my membership.
Why? Isn't Amnesty a force for good in the world? Isn't it supporting political prisoners against dictatorial regimes?
Not always.
Let me give you an example: Christina Ellingsen, a Norwegian feminist, faces 3 years in prison for stating these obvious truths : a man cannot be a lesbian, and a man cannot give birth to a child.
And guess what?
Amnesty sides with the Norwegian state, the state that wants to put her in jail just because she has expressed her opinions.
Isn't Amnesty supposed to defend the rights of the individual against the state?
Not anymore, apparently.
Amnesty was founded in 1961. Its founder, Peter Berenson, wrote about his inspiration for starting Amnesty:
“Open your newspaper any day of the week and you will find a story from somewhere of someone being imprisoned, tortured or executed because his opinions or religion are unacceptable to his government... The newspaper reader feels a sickening sense of impotence “1
Clearly, he would be appalled to go on the Internet and find a story about a woman being persecuted by the Norwegian government because her opinions are unacceptable to her government.
Even more appalled he would be to learn that Amnesty sides with this oppressive government!
Amnesty has become overtly political. This example proves it, and there are many other instances.
You could argue: ” Isn't Amnesty doing so much good in the world that this case pales in comparison?”
I would answer no. Even if you agree with Amnesty's political views don't you think it makes Amnesty less effective?
I think so, because it gives oppressive governments an argument against Amnesty's criticism.
If, for example, Amnesty (rightfully) criticizes the government of Saudi Arabia for condemning a blogger because of his opinions, the Saudis could answer: “But Amnesty, you support the Norwegian government against a woman expressing her opinions. There is no fundamental difference between the Norwegians and us.” Which would be true and weakens Amnesty's effectiveness.
Also, if an organization acts completely contradictory to its original purpose does it still deserves our support? I don't think so and that’s why I canceled my membership. 2
Are you sure you want to remain a member of Amnesty International?
I am curious about your thoughts, please comment below.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amnesty_International
I can still sign letters to governments on behalf of political prisoners (and I do).
might be better to focus upon 'core tasks' ?
The Norse case is indeed strange.
In many other cases it is good there is Amnesty.
Sadly, this is happening with a lot of civil rights nonprofits. Didn't know Amnesty International was another casualty.