Amnesty International: A Secret Torture Supporter?

Amnesty International is known for its creative, controversial and clever campaigns. But never have its campaigns been contradictory.

Until now.

The-Really-Big-And-Far-Reaching-Ad-Campaign-They-Never-Really-Wanted-You-To-See, created by VCCP, is a satirical promo spoofing Amnesty’s support of the London Arms Fair, which is in town this week.

Despite what the 40-second-spot may preach, Amnesty isn’t actually supporting the trading of torture equipment.

The Defence and Security Equipment International (known as DSEi) event occurs biannually since it was established in 2005. Arms and torture equipment are sold just outside of London, providing an excellent networking opportunity for traders and governing organisations.

By exposing the intentions of the fair – and the fact that it is supported by the UK government – the campaign has grabbed the public’s attention and brought this subject very much into the public eye, with many tweeting their disbelief that such an event actually exists.

Helmed by Zak Ella, the campaign has reached people on social media and with print ads, leading many activists to dispute whether it should continue.

The corresponding website Torture on Your Doorstep informs readers about the fair and encourages them to sign the petition in the hope that the UK government will stop the trade of illegal torture equipment. They hope to reach 25,000 signatures and at the time of press almost 20,000 were submitted.

The fair runs until tomorrow.