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So how many people's lives were saved by this coverage and condemnation, that's the real question.

I don't think some country's ruler gives a damn about coverage and condemnation, as long as it stops there.

With respect I disagree. The most metallic of tinpot despots still believes themselves to be righteous and want to be loved and admired. Amnesty International's experience is that such rulers care sufficiently when a bunch of ordinary people write them letters for that to be a worthwhile thing to do in support of political prisoners. Worthwhile along useful dimensions like stopping torture and so on.

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