Amnesty International and Quakers

Quakers were instrumental in setting up Amnesty International. Using his contacts, experience and position, British Quaker Eric Baker campaigned for the humane treatment of political prisoners. He helped write an article for The Observer entitled “The Forgotten Prisoner” in 1961. This article called for “the amnesty of all political prisoners” and began a campaign that resulted in the founding of Amnesty International in 1962. 

Amnesty International draws attention to human rights abuses and campaigns for compliance with international laws and standards. It works to mobilise public opinion to exert pressure on governments that perpetrate abuses. The organisation was awarded the 1977 Nobel Peace Prize for its "campaign against torture", and the United Nations Prize in the Field of Human Rights in 1978.

Amnesty International is a worldwide movement of people who campaign for internationally recognized human rights for all. Its supporters are outraged by human rights abuses but inspired by hope for a better world.

Many Friends continue to be involved with Amnesty International New Zealand, both as members and as volunteers, writing letters, attending rallies and vigils, and as donors.

Eric Baker - Quaker pacifist & peacemaker

  • Eric Baker was a conscientious objector during WW II.
  • As Secretary of the National Peace Council (UK), he penned articles on psychological warfare and called for the prohibition of nuclear weapons.
  • He made four peace missions to Cyprus in the late 50s and early 60s.
  • Baker formulated the phrase 'prisoners of conscience' and advocated support for those not advocating violence.
  • He continued his peace activism within British Quakers, campaigning against torture.