Human rights are every candidate’s responsibility

Dear friend,

As the election draws nearer, Amnesty International Australia, on behalf of its 125,000 supporters, is calling on all candidates from all parties to be human rights defenders.

We believe that Federal Parliamentarians have the ultimate responsibility for upholding and defending the human rights of people in Australia. These rights are apolitical, transcend political ideologies and prescribe that people be treated humanely and with dignity.

Each and every Member of Parliament has a significant role in promoting the human rights of their constituents and of the broader Australian community within the parliamentary system - through their portfolio responsibilities, by participating in various committees, in speeches, or in party-room meetings.

As someone aspiring to hold office, that responsibility also lies with you.

If elected, we call on you to commit to promoting and defending human rights in your Maiden Speech.

Our ‘Australia’s human rights responsibilities in an election year’ document sets out the major human rights responsibilities for all politicians - download it now (pdf 614kb). We will also send you a hard copy for your information.

Please do not hesitate to contact Louise Allen, Government Relations Manager on 02 8396 7649; 0434 672 242 or at louise.allen@amnesty.org.au if you have any questions or would like more information.

Yours Sincerely

Claire Mallinson
National Director
Amnesty International Australia