Global crisis 'hits human rights'

By: Liz Hasseld

The global economic crisis is said to be bringing human rights abuses, according to Amnesty International. "Rising prices meant millions were struggling to meet basic needs in Africa and Asia, it said, and protests were being met with repression." These political conflicts led to suffering in Africa and Asia. The 400-page report, examined 157 countries, and concluded that human rights were being ignored in pursuit of stabilizing the global economy. The poorest of the poor are getting the worst of this economic crisis, the report said. When these people tried to protest, they were met with repression and violence. The report stressed the need for international leaders to set an example and end poverty. Because this poverty will lead to mass chaos and violence.

"Economic recovery will be neither sustainable nor equitable if governments fail to tackle abuses that drive and deepen poverty, or armed conflicts that generate new violations," said Amnesty's Secretary General, Irene Khan.