The human rights organization's report paints a grim picture of the global situation, stating that major powers are systematically violating international law while international courts are being weakened. Amnesty International warns the world is at a turning point where the very foundation of human rights is under attack. The report maps developments in 144 countries and documents serious violations in conflicts including Gaza, Ukraine, and the Caribbean Sea.
According to the organization, there has been a sharp increase in attacks on civil society and freedom of expression worldwide. Demonstrations and protests are met with violence in many countries, and organizations are being criminalized through security legislation. Freedom of expression is being restricted through surveillance and censorship.
The world stands on the brink of a dangerous new era.
Amnesty International warns that a new world with authoritarian control is emerging where rights are systematically weakened. Europe faces particular criticism in the report for being passive in the face of serious violations of international law. European states have done little to stop arms exports to countries contributing to war crimes, and have not responded consistently to violations by major powers, according to the organization.
Specific conflicts and developments that Amnesty International describes as contributing to lawlessness include Israel's policy toward Palestinians, the United Arab Emirates' role in the war in Sudan, and the recent US and Israeli war against Iran.
When abuses are not met with consequences, passivity in practice becomes a consent.
Despite the bleak assessment, Amnesty International sees a small hope at the beginning of 2026 after European countries refused to contribute to the American and Israeli attacks against Iran on February 28. However, Amnesty International remains concerned that good forces are not protesting more against these violations.
Regarding Sweden specifically, Amnesty International criticizes that Sami rights are being disregarded and the government's increasingly restrictive proposals for residence permits.
The report also warns that the summer's football World Cup could become a place where human rights are set aside and pose a threat to those the tournament is intended for. Maja Åberg of Amnesty Sweden described a risk of a World Cup from which many people are excluded.