Write for Rights

'Get out a fresh sheet of paper and a pen and compose a letter that might help unlock doors.' - Stephen Fry

In December 2011 thousands of women and men answered our call to write letters on behalf of the individuals, families and communities in 2011's Write for Rights campaign. Thank you to everyone who took part. We have already seen how something as simple as a letter can make a difference.

Instead of sending an email or signing a petition our Write for Rights campaign asked you to pick up a pen and paper and take five minutes to write a letter on behalf of someone in trouble.

Every letter sent amplified the call for freedom. Each one made it harder for a president or police chief to ignore our appeals. We've helped thousands of prisoners of conscience claim their freedom and with your help we were able to add a few more names to that list.

The first big success came with the news that the Mexican government has taken responsibility for the rape of Valentina Rosendo Cantú. This was followed up on Boxing Day 2011 when Jabbar Savalan was released from prison.