Getting Started
Choose a political prisoner, click the "Write a Letter" button, fill out the form, and we'll send it to the recipient without revealing your identity. We'll handle all costs and logistics. But we'll be grateful if you support us with a donation – it helps send more letters.
Don't know who to choose?
Write to someone who is eagerly waiting for a letter! 'Lifeline' will give you the name of a randomly selected political prisoner — someone who rarely receives letters and for whom your message will be especially meaningful.
Why is it important
According to OVD-Info, more than 3,000 people in Russia are being persecuted for political reasons, such as openly opposing the war in Ukraine, participating in protests, or posting something that displeased law enforcement agencies. Of these, more than 1,500 people are serving sentences involving imprisonment or are being held in custody or under house arrest until their verdicts come into force. Some receive extremely long sentences — up to 20 or even 25 years.
The persecution affects people far removed from professional politics: students, teachers, office workers, doctors, clergy, mechanics, janitors, artists, and lawyers. A significant portion of those imprisoned are Jehovah's Witnesses and representatives of other religious denominations who are persecuted for their faith.
No one is safe from political persecution in Russia — students, doctors, teachers, journalists, artists, lawyers – to name a few. They've all joined peaceful protests, posted on social media, or been involved in political or religious activities.
A simple act like writing a letter can make a huge difference for those persecuted by the Kremlin. Our goal is to get at least a few letters to every single political prisoner we know of.
It's not just about how many letters we send, but about making a genuine connection. Take a little time to write something thoughtful and caring. Check out the instructions below for tips on what to include and what to avoid.
Your letters are a lifeline for political prisoners – a beacon of hope in dark times. Each word is a hug, a reminder that they're not alone in their struggle. It'll only take 20-30 minutes of your time but will mean the world to them.