3 August 2001 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AUCKLAND TRAFFIC IS NOT TORTURE

SHOPPING WITH YOUR KIDS IS NOT TORTURE

LOSING TO AUSTRALIA IS NOT TORTURE

DOING YOUR HOMEWORK IS NOT TORTURE

Being beaten up in custody over hours, days or months because of who you are is.

Being given electric shocks to make you "confess" is.

Being raped repeatedly by officials responsible for public safety is.

7-13 August is Candle Week, during which Amnesty International members and supporters will be on the streets giving New Zealanders the opportunity to contribute to Stamping Out Torture globally.

Amnesty's annual street collection on Friday 10 August comes half way through its third major international campaign against torture.

The Campaign, launched by Helen Clark last October, has seen growth in Amnesty International's life-saving Urgent Action Network where individuals send emails, faxes and letters on behalf of those facing torture, and an increase in government commitments to eradicate torture.

In the last three years people have reportedly died as a result of torture or ill-treatment by state agents in over 80 countries. It is estimated that at least 30% of the 750 refugees who come into New Zealand each year under a UN quota arrangement have experienced some form of torture.

New Zealanders can also contribute by visiting www.amnesty.org.nz or phoning 0800 AMNESTY (266 378)

For further information contact Ced Simpson 021 371 205

© Scoop Media