Good
This week we have bunch of good news stories to share with you. A total of thirteen individuals deemed at risk, from Bangladesh, Cameroon, China and Zimbabwe have all recently been released from detention. Amnesty International Urgent Actions had been issued for all of them. For more details, click here
Not so good
A reprieve has been grant but it might only be temporary. Amnesty International is still closely monitoring the situation in the Ugandan Parliament regarding the Ugandan Anti-Homosexuality Bill. As the incumbent members of Parliament left office ahead of the new members that will be sworn in next week, the bill had yet to be discussed. If passed, persons accused of homosexuality could face charges as drastic as the death penalty. Watch this space. For more details, click here
Upcoming events
For those of you who haven’t already heard, next Monday, 23rd May, for the first time in Australia, Ms Navi Pillay, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, will be giving a public presentation. She will join a panel discussion which includes one of Australia's most prominent and well-respected Aboriginal Elders Professor Patrick Dodson and Director of the Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture Paris Aristotle AM. For more details, click here
Friday, May 20, 2011
Monday, May 2, 2011
Impact of NT Intervention Speak Out
Impact of NT Intervention Speak Out
Speakers:
NT Rights Holders:
Our speakers will talk is on the effects of the Federal Government and NT Government roll out of the NT Emergency response, the immediate and longer term effects of this punitive legislative intervention and growing concerns over the call to extend the intervention powers which will directly effect those Aboriginal people living in town camps and those visiting Alice Springs and other major centres in the NT.
We will also introduce the successful recipients of the AIA Indigenous Scholarship fund to attend the UNPFII they are seen as experts in their field of work and will participate in the Indigenous peoples Caucasus and provide expert advice to the IPO Australian Delegation on issues as wide ranging as women's rights, free prior and informed consent to climate change and water.
Facilitator: Monica Morgan - Demand Dignity - Indigenous Peoples Rights Team
When: Wednesday 4th May 2-3pm
Where: Amnesty International -Level 1 - 79 Myrtle Street, Chippendale NSW
Each person can speak for about 10minutes each and then questions. All Welcome.
Speakers:
NT Rights Holders:
- Richard Downs Alyawarr Elder and Spokesperson Northern territory
- Ngarla kunoth Monks Alyawarr spokesperson Northern territoy
- Barbara Shaw Mt Nacy Town camp Alice Springs
- Steven Ross - Yarkawa Aboriginal Corporation - Wamba Wamba Nation NSW
- Janine Gertz - Gugu Badhun Tradional Owner Group - Nth Queensland
Our speakers will talk is on the effects of the Federal Government and NT Government roll out of the NT Emergency response, the immediate and longer term effects of this punitive legislative intervention and growing concerns over the call to extend the intervention powers which will directly effect those Aboriginal people living in town camps and those visiting Alice Springs and other major centres in the NT.
Each speaker has a unique story to be told and it is this story that will be shared with hundreds of Indigenous Peoples and the Human Rights Council as they travel form all parts of the world to attend the 10th Session of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues to be held in New York from 13 - 27th May 2011.
When: Wednesday 4th May 2-3pm
Where: Amnesty International -Level 1 - 79 Myrtle Street, Chippendale NSW
Thursday, April 7, 2011
NSW Action Group Catch Up & Taste of Freedom Dinner
Coinciding with National Volunteer Week, following this catch-up each of you is warmly invited to a Taste of Freedom dinner, hosted by our National Director, Claire Mallinson. This dinner is to pay tribute to the tireless work of all our volunteers over the past 50 years.
When: Tuesday 10th May 2011 (meeting 6 - 7.30pm; dinner from 7.30pm).
Where: Amnesty International Action Centre, Level 1, 79 Myrtle St, Chippendale
RSVP: nswccintern@amnesty.org.au or on 8396 7665 - please mention if you are going to attend in person or ring in. While AI wants to engage with as many action groups as possible, we understand that it may be difficult (both in terms of time and money) to travel to Sydney to attend the catch-up. AI NSW is able to pay for transport for members outside the Sydney area or assist those who would like to ring in over the phone to take part in the meeting. If you are unable to attend in person but are keen to ring in: (Ph.) 96960695, (PIN) 336849#
The Catch-Up will be a great opportunity to: - Meet and engage with other NSW groups, convenors and members of AI NSW. - Receive updates on the Refugee campaign and our new campaign around AI's 50th Anniversary - Go over problems arising for action groups, especially on retention and mobilisation of members - Run through the new campaign and events - Provide us with valuable feedback about your group activities, experiences and concerns.
Looking forward to seeing all of you at the meeting!
When: Tuesday 10th May 2011 (meeting 6 - 7.30pm; dinner from 7.30pm).
Where: Amnesty International Action Centre, Level 1, 79 Myrtle St, Chippendale
RSVP: nswccintern@amnesty.org.au or on 8396 7665 - please mention if you are going to attend in person or ring in. While AI wants to engage with as many action groups as possible, we understand that it may be difficult (both in terms of time and money) to travel to Sydney to attend the catch-up. AI NSW is able to pay for transport for members outside the Sydney area or assist those who would like to ring in over the phone to take part in the meeting. If you are unable to attend in person but are keen to ring in: (Ph.) 96960695, (PIN) 336849#
The Catch-Up will be a great opportunity to: - Meet and engage with other NSW groups, convenors and members of AI NSW. - Receive updates on the Refugee campaign and our new campaign around AI's 50th Anniversary - Go over problems arising for action groups, especially on retention and mobilisation of members - Run through the new campaign and events - Provide us with valuable feedback about your group activities, experiences and concerns.
Looking forward to seeing all of you at the meeting!
REFUGEE WEEK!
Refugee Week is a unique time of year to celebrate the contributions that refugees bring to Australia as well as showing support to refugees and their families. It is a time to reflect on what we would do if we were in a similar position as some of those who seek asylum in Australia. It is a great opportunity to hold an event and to build awareness of the needs of refugees.
If you are an Amnesty group and want to take action for Refugee Week let us know! In 2011, Refugee Week will be celebrated from from Sunday 19 June to Saturday 25 June and coincides with World Refufee Day which is Monday 20 June.
For more information about Refugee Week or Amnesty’s Refugee campaign visit:
www.refugeeweek.org.au & http://www.rethinkrefugees.com.au
NSW Community Campaigns Assistant
NSW Community Campaigns Assistant · Are you high performing, energetic and well organised coordinator? · Do you have a passion for campaigning and defending human rights ? · Sydney based part-time contract 30 May 2011 to 26 August 2011 (12 weeks)
Amnesty International Australia is one of Australia’s largest not for profit organisations and is part of the global movement defending human rights and dignity. We work with people in Australia and our region to demand respect for human rights and protect people facing abuse. To do this, we mobilise people, campaign, conduct research and raise money for our work. We are promoting a culture where human rights are embraced, valued and protected.
The Campaigning Unit develops and implements strategies for change to achieve AIA’s human rights goals by developing campaign strategies, engaging and mobilising activists and supporters to build community support for AIA’s human rights campaigns. AIA’s Community Campaigns team takes a leading role in maintaining AIA’s relationships with regional civil society and local decision makers, including implementing AIA’s campaigns at the regional level through mobilising and supporting our activists and supporters. Reporting to the Manager Community Campaigns, the NSW Community Campaigns Assistant will be responsible for supporting the Community Campaigner, activists and volunteers to achieve campaigning and other plans of Amnesty International Australia in New South Wales.
You will have:
- Demonstrated high level of oral and written communication skills
- Demonstrated high level organisational skills including strong administrative skills and the ability to coordinate diverse activities
- Experience in working with a diverse range of volunteers
- Ability to work to under pressure and to tight time schedules as a member of a team.
- Strong computer skills, particularly word processing and data entry. Familiarity with Microsoft Access, Lotus Notes and desktop publishing programs are an advantage.
- Understanding of and sympathy with AI's aims, basic principles and working methods.
- It is desirable that applicants have experience in event coordination.
In return, you will be rewarded with flexible working conditions, a fantastic and supportive office environment, and the knowledge that you will be working for an organisation committed to making a difference.
If this role sounds like you and you would like to be remunerated with a base salary of $54,608 p.a. pro rata plus superannuation, please send your resume and application letter responding to the selection criteria to employment@amnesty.org.au by 9am Friday 8 April 2011.
NB: This position is only open to current staff members and volunteers of Amnesty International Australia.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Sharing AI@50 Regional Feature Stories
Are you a local activist, human rights defender or victim of human rights abuses? Do you know a local activist, human rights defender or victim of human rights abuses?
Do you feel like sharing your story?
Amnesty International Australia is on the look-out for inspiring stories which would be highlighted in local media outlets to coincide with Amnesty's 50th Birthday.
If you want to participate in this celebration, than just send us the following information at the following address before May 2nd: nswcommunications@amnesty.org.au
1- Name (individual or group)
2- One-two sentences about your story and why it would be of interest. E.g. Why did you get involved, what did you do (letter writing, advocacy, have you experienced human rights abuses) and what makes your story unique and inspirational?
3- Relationship/connection with Amnesty International. E.g. Are you a supporter of Amnesty, since when, have you been involved in campaigns, etc?
4- Available photos
5- Contact details
Friday, March 25, 2011
Making the Most of the Media: Media Workshop
Please join us for this exciting media workshop:
This media course offers practical advice for effective media work. Media is an essential method for taking human rights messages to wide and diverse audiences. Engaging with the media can determine the success of a campaign and can help influence community attitudes and perceptions.
This workshop aims to provide the essential tools and tips for engaging with media and making good media work integral to your activism including:
- Getting into the media
- Creating a scene
- Writing a media release
- Writing a letter to the editor
- Being effective online
- The all important interview
- Knowing your Amnesty facts and messages
When: Thursday 5th of May 6:00 - 8:30pm
Where: NSW Action Centre, Level 1, 79 Myrtle St Chippendale
RSVP: nswcommunications@amnesty.org.au
Thursday, March 17, 2011
NSW 'Get Active' Evening
The NSW region will hold a 'Get Active' Evening to give new members, activists and volunteers an introduction to Amnesty International and present the various ways in which you can get involved in the defence of human rights.
When: Tuesday, March 22nd, time TBC
Where: At the NSW action centre - Level 1, 79 Myrtle St, Chippendale
RSVP: nswccintern@amnesty.org.au
When: Tuesday, March 22nd, time TBC
Where: At the NSW action centre - Level 1, 79 Myrtle St, Chippendale
RSVP: nswccintern@amnesty.org.au
Authorities again fail to ensure justice for the death of Mulrunji Doomadgee
Amnesty International has expressed outrage at the Queensland Police Service’s failure to secure justice for the death in custody of Indigenous man Mulrunji Doomadgee on Palm Island in 2004.
The Queensland Police Service yesterday rejected the Crime and Misconduct Commission’s recommendation to bring disciplinary action against the officers involved in the flawed investigation that followed Mr Doomadgee’s death.
Several inquests into Mr Doomadgee’s death and criminal proceedings against Sergeant Hurley have not resulted in accountability for Mr Doomadgee’s tragic death.
“This decision means that here we are, six years on, and achieving justice for Mr Doomadgee and his family is further away from becoming a reality,” said Katie Wood, Amnesty International Australia.
Last year, the Crime and Misconduct Commission found that investigations into Mr Doomadgee’s death were neither impartial nor thorough.
“In what may seem like an obvious requirement, investigations into deaths in police custody must be conducted independently of the police responsible for that custody,” said Katie Wood.
“A lack of impartiality and independence leads to flawed police investigations and ultimately denies any opportunity for justice for a death in custody,” said Katie Wood.
Amnesty International has raised its concerns about the death and subsequent investigation with various UN bodies. In 2008, for instance, the UN Committee Against Torture urged Australia to ensure that any deaths in detention are investigated promptly, independently and impartially.
The organisation also continues to call on both the Queensland and Federal Governments to ensure that the 1991 Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody recommendations are implemented, so that another Indigenous family does not have to again endure such a distressing situation.
“Ensuring accountability for the taking of Mr Doomadgee’s life is one very significant part of preventing future tragic deaths,” said Katie Wood.
The Queensland Police Service yesterday rejected the Crime and Misconduct Commission’s recommendation to bring disciplinary action against the officers involved in the flawed investigation that followed Mr Doomadgee’s death.
Several inquests into Mr Doomadgee’s death and criminal proceedings against Sergeant Hurley have not resulted in accountability for Mr Doomadgee’s tragic death.
“This decision means that here we are, six years on, and achieving justice for Mr Doomadgee and his family is further away from becoming a reality,” said Katie Wood, Amnesty International Australia.
Last year, the Crime and Misconduct Commission found that investigations into Mr Doomadgee’s death were neither impartial nor thorough.
“In what may seem like an obvious requirement, investigations into deaths in police custody must be conducted independently of the police responsible for that custody,” said Katie Wood.
“A lack of impartiality and independence leads to flawed police investigations and ultimately denies any opportunity for justice for a death in custody,” said Katie Wood.
Amnesty International has raised its concerns about the death and subsequent investigation with various UN bodies. In 2008, for instance, the UN Committee Against Torture urged Australia to ensure that any deaths in detention are investigated promptly, independently and impartially.
The organisation also continues to call on both the Queensland and Federal Governments to ensure that the 1991 Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody recommendations are implemented, so that another Indigenous family does not have to again endure such a distressing situation.
“Ensuring accountability for the taking of Mr Doomadgee’s life is one very significant part of preventing future tragic deaths,” said Katie Wood.
We did it!
After five years of our letter writing, petition signing and advocacy, our leaders have stepped up and released a national plan to help put an end to violence against women in Australia.
Did you know that some 4 million women in Australia have experienced violence at home, intimidation by their loved ones or sexual abuse at some stage of their lives? Worst of all, it often takes place out of sight or behind closed doors, helping abusers escape justice. This isn’t a distant problem happening in another country: it’s right here in our living rooms, our streets and our communities.
But together, our hard work has ensured our politicians have put in place a positive blueprint to help eradicate violence against women for good.
For the first time in our country’s history, we have a nationwide framework that will protect survivors of physical and sexual abuse, provide sufficient services to women and children experiencing violence and prosecute abusers. Under this plan, survivors of violence will receive the same level of support and protection, no matter which state or territory they’re in.
It’s a coordinated, all-of-government approach, and your actions made sure it happened.
Remember, wins like this don’t happen overnight. This victory says so much about the persistence, passion and power of the Amnesty movement when we come together to demand change. This is not the work of one person alone; it’s the work of thousands of people like you.
Just last week, we celebrated the centenary of International Women's Day by remembering the remarkable achievements of women in Australia and around the world. And what a way to celebrate!
Thank you and congratulations for making Australia a better, fairer place for women.
To read abut the plan and how you made it happen:
http://www.amnesty.org.au/svaw/comments/24960/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=npoa&utm_content=body1
Now that our politicians have responded to our calls, it’s important to acknowledge their actions. If you've got a moment, you can leave a short message of thank you with us (through the above link) and we'll deliver it directly to the former and current federal ministers for the Status of Women, Tanya Plibersek and Kate Ellis.
Did you know that some 4 million women in Australia have experienced violence at home, intimidation by their loved ones or sexual abuse at some stage of their lives? Worst of all, it often takes place out of sight or behind closed doors, helping abusers escape justice. This isn’t a distant problem happening in another country: it’s right here in our living rooms, our streets and our communities.
But together, our hard work has ensured our politicians have put in place a positive blueprint to help eradicate violence against women for good.
For the first time in our country’s history, we have a nationwide framework that will protect survivors of physical and sexual abuse, provide sufficient services to women and children experiencing violence and prosecute abusers. Under this plan, survivors of violence will receive the same level of support and protection, no matter which state or territory they’re in.
It’s a coordinated, all-of-government approach, and your actions made sure it happened.
Remember, wins like this don’t happen overnight. This victory says so much about the persistence, passion and power of the Amnesty movement when we come together to demand change. This is not the work of one person alone; it’s the work of thousands of people like you.
Just last week, we celebrated the centenary of International Women's Day by remembering the remarkable achievements of women in Australia and around the world. And what a way to celebrate!
Thank you and congratulations for making Australia a better, fairer place for women.
To read abut the plan and how you made it happen:
http://www.amnesty.org.au/svaw/comments/24960/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=npoa&utm_content=body1
Now that our politicians have responded to our calls, it’s important to acknowledge their actions. If you've got a moment, you can leave a short message of thank you with us (through the above link) and we'll deliver it directly to the former and current federal ministers for the Status of Women, Tanya Plibersek and Kate Ellis.
AI@50 Regional Feature Stories
Are you a local activist, human rights defender or victim of human rights abuses? Do you know a local activist, human rights defender or victim of human rights abuses?
Do you feel like sharing your story?
Amnesty International Australia is on the look-out for inspiring stories which would be highlighted in local media outlets to coincide with Amnesty's 50th Birthday.
If you want to participate in this celebration, than just send us the following information at the following address: nswcommunications@amnesty.org.au before May 2nd
1- Name (individual or group)
2- One-two sentences about your story and why it would be of interest. E.g. Why did you get involved, what did you do (letter writing, advocacy, have you experienced human rights abuses) and what makes your story unique and inspirational?
3- Relationship/connection with Amnesty International. E.g. Are you a supporter of Amnesty, since when, have you been involved in campaigns, etc?
4- Available photos
5- Contact details
Online Action : Demand your MP end mandatory detention
To date, the refugee debate in Australia has been dominated by misinformation and unfounded fears. As a result, the unfair and ineffective policy of mandatory detention has continued virtually unchallenged.
As Australia’s detention system deteriorates, it’s time to get your MP to rethink refugees and support a detention policy that is based on the facts:
- It is not illegal to seek asylum, even if arriving by boat (Australian Migration Act, 1958);
- Most asylum seekers who arrive by boat are found to be genuine refugees; and
- Asylum seekers who arrive by boat make up less than 2% of our overall migration.
Mandatory detention ignores these facts, and unfairly punishes people who are exercising their right to asylum. Demand that your MP support an end to mandatory detention, and represent your concerns to the rest of their party.
Get involved:
Sign the petition below and demand your local MP help end mandatory detention in Australia.
To the Speaker and Members of the House of Representatives,
I am calling on my federal representative to rethink refugees and help end the policy of mandatory detention. This policy ignores the facts:
- It is not illegal to seek asylum, even if arriving by boat (Australian Migration Act, 1958);
- Most asylum seekers who arrive by boat are found to be genuine refugees; and
- The numbers of asylum seekers who arrive by boat make less than 2% of our overall migration.
I believe that mandatory detention unfairly punishes people fleeing war, terror and violence. I call on all MPs to show real leadership on this issue and commit to detention reform that focuses on the humane, efficient and cost-effective policy of housing asylum seekers in the community.
More information on:
http://www.amnesty.org.au/action/action/24781/
Will Christmas Island inquiry meet international human rights standards?
Amnesty International has called for Immigration Minister Chris Bowen to immediately announce the terms of the inquiry into the use of force against protesting asylum seekers on Christmas Island, and to confirm that it will meet international human rights standards regarding independence and impartiality.
“Following revelations that bean bag rounds, fired by shotguns, were used against protesting asylum seekers on Christmas Island, Minister Bowen must urgently confirm that the incidents will be fully and independently investigated and that the finding of the inquiry will be made publicly available,” said Andrew Beswick, Campaigns Director for Amnesty International Australia.
“While the full details of the incidents in which tear gas and shotguns were used are yet to emerge, this use of force on Christmas Island is extremely concerning. Amnesty International expects that an independent inquiry will establish and disclose whether the use of force was appropriate and proportional, and whether the situation was properly managed by authorities and contractors prior to the deployment of force.
“So far, the Government response has raised more questions than it has answered.”
In 2009, the United Nations Human Rights Committee recommended that Australia establish mechanisms to carry out independent investigations of complaints concerning excessive use of force by law enforcement officials. Amnesty International fully expects that the inquiry into incidents on Christmas Island comply with this recommendation.
While the Australian Federal Police guidelines governing the use of force are not publicly available, Amnesty International calls on the agency to confirm that they are in line with the United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials. “Amnesty International has repeatedly warned of deteriorating conditions within the detention centres on Christmas Island,” said Andrew Beswick. “The Government must take immediate steps to address the underlying issues, including the length of time it is taking to process asylum claims, and the remote overcrowded conditions in which asylum seekers are being detained.”
“Following revelations that bean bag rounds, fired by shotguns, were used against protesting asylum seekers on Christmas Island, Minister Bowen must urgently confirm that the incidents will be fully and independently investigated and that the finding of the inquiry will be made publicly available,” said Andrew Beswick, Campaigns Director for Amnesty International Australia.
“While the full details of the incidents in which tear gas and shotguns were used are yet to emerge, this use of force on Christmas Island is extremely concerning. Amnesty International expects that an independent inquiry will establish and disclose whether the use of force was appropriate and proportional, and whether the situation was properly managed by authorities and contractors prior to the deployment of force.
“So far, the Government response has raised more questions than it has answered.”
In 2009, the United Nations Human Rights Committee recommended that Australia establish mechanisms to carry out independent investigations of complaints concerning excessive use of force by law enforcement officials. Amnesty International fully expects that the inquiry into incidents on Christmas Island comply with this recommendation.
While the Australian Federal Police guidelines governing the use of force are not publicly available, Amnesty International calls on the agency to confirm that they are in line with the United Nations Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials. “Amnesty International has repeatedly warned of deteriorating conditions within the detention centres on Christmas Island,” said Andrew Beswick. “The Government must take immediate steps to address the underlying issues, including the length of time it is taking to process asylum claims, and the remote overcrowded conditions in which asylum seekers are being detained.”
Amnesty International has also reiterated its call for minimum standards of training to be introduced for all government and contractor staff who engage with asylum seekers in detention, including training in dealing with critical incidents and mental health issues.
The international human rights organisation continues to call for an end to the mandatory, offshore and remote detention of asylum seekers.
Background:
Following a visit to Christmas Island to inspect detention facilities and conditions in October 2010, Amnesty International provided this briefing to the UN Committee Against Torture:
Amongst the concerns raised by Amnesty International were the length of time it is taking the Department of Immigration and Citizenship to process claims and the lack of adequate medical, mental health and counselling services available to the growing populations in remote detention centres such as Christmas Island.
At the time of Amnesty International’s visit, hundreds of people were being detained in tent-style accommodation on Christmas Island and additional facilities were hastily being erected to cope with new arrivals. At that time, some asylum seekers had been detained on the remote island for over 16 months.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Film screening of eye-opening documentary, "Our Generation"
On Friday, April 8th*, Amnesty International Australia will host a film screening at the NSW Action Centre, to bring attention to the Australian government’s failure to uphold its international commitment to protecting the rights of indigenous people.
Directed and produced by Sinem Saban and Damien Curtis – who have both been involved in fighting for Aboriginal rights for years –, “Our Generation” tells the story of a struggle hidden from the Australian public and shows how the nation’s first people continue in their fight for survival despite the National Apology issued by the Labor government in 2008.
This film is a call to Australia to take a fresh and unflinching look at these unresolved issues.
Renowned journalist, Jeff McMullen will give an introduction at the screening.
Please RSVP to nswdignity@amnesty.org.au
*Time yet to be confirmed
Directed and produced by Sinem Saban and Damien Curtis – who have both been involved in fighting for Aboriginal rights for years –, “Our Generation” tells the story of a struggle hidden from the Australian public and shows how the nation’s first people continue in their fight for survival despite the National Apology issued by the Labor government in 2008.
This film is a call to Australia to take a fresh and unflinching look at these unresolved issues.
Renowned journalist, Jeff McMullen will give an introduction at the screening.
Please RSVP to nswdignity@amnesty.org.au
*Time yet to be confirmed
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