Amnesty facing new challenges.

Amnesty facing new challenges

Juliet Rowan Daily Yomiuri Staff Writer

Yomiuri

In the wake of the Sept. 11 attacks on the United States, one global organization is finding more than ever that it has its work cut out for it--Amnesty International.

In addition to activities aimed at putting a stop to torture, unjust treatment of prisoners, recruitment of child soldiers, the death penalty and other condemnatory practices, the organization--which has about a million members and supporters worldwide--now finds itself trying to combat what it calls a human rights "backlash" as a result of the Sept. 11 attacks.

While Amnesty has publicly condemned the attacks on New York and Washington, it has also expressed deep concern over reports of hate crimes against Muslims and people of Middle Eastern or Asian origin. Amnesty is also worried about moves by the United States, Malaysia and several other countries to extend the length of time they can detain suspects, citing this as one …