A Lifeline of Support for Myanmar’s Political Prisoners

The "Hope Behind Bars" program stands as a vital lifeline for those unjustly imprisoned under Myanmar’s brutal military regime, particularly at Insein Prison. Since the military coup of 2021, political prisoners and democracy activists have faced unimaginable conditions inside detention facilities, including limited access to clean drinking water, contaminated food, and a stark absence of basic hygiene products like soap. These circumstances not only degrade their physical health but aim to break their spirits.

Insein Prison, long infamous for its appalling conditions, exemplifies the regime's relentless abuse. Prisoners, particularly political ones, are often subjected to psychological and physical torment, either from the authorities or from fellow inmates empowered to enforce cruel hierarchies. The food they receive is unsafe, frequently contaminated with insects and even stones. The lack of hygiene leads to widespread skin diseases and infections, all of which make survival a daily struggle.

Yet, despite these dark conditions, there is hope.

"Hope Behind Bars" brings essential resources to these prisoners, delivering safe, nutritious food, hygiene supplies, and critical support in the form of transportation to ensure the deliveries reach those who need them most. But more than just the physical items, what we provide is a message of solidarity—a lifeline that reminds these prisoners they are not alone, that their fight for democracy is seen, supported, and valued. Every delivery tells them that their courage and resilience have not gone unnoticed.

This project embodies our collective stand for justice and human dignity. It ensures that, even in the darkest moments, a glimmer of hope can reach those who need it most. And to continue this vital work, we rely on the generosity of those who believe in a brighter future for Myanmar. Together, we can ensure that these prisoners feel the support of the outside world, allowing their spirits to endure, even behind bars.

We would like to update you about a recent aid trip into Insein Pirson. Our efforts resulted in the delivery of essential food and hygiene products, directly improving the lives of over 38 political prisoners. This aid was not just about survival—it sent a message to these courageous individuals that they have not been forgotten by the outside world. Please read below for further information:

Food Supplies: Prisoners received essential food items, including noodles, coffee, fried potatoes, tea leaf salad, and chicken seasoning powder. These items helped alleviate the inadequate prison rations, ensuring that they received proper nutrition. Notably, homemade favorites like fried fish and shrimp paste brought a small sense of normalcy and comfort to the prisoners, a powerful reminder that they are not alone in their fight.

Hygiene Products: Maintaining hygiene in overcrowded, unsanitary conditions is critical. We delivered supplies like toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and washing soap, which helped prevent the spread of diseases and allowed the prisoners to maintain a basic level of cleanliness, a rare and vital aspect of their well-being.

Nutritional Support: The food we provided gave prisoners much-needed sustenance, helping them maintain strength and health in the face of prison meals that are unsafe and nutritionally inadequate.

Hygiene Maintenance: The distribution of hygiene products helped prisoners protect themselves against the rampant diseases that thrive in overcrowded, unsanitary environments.

Emotional and Moral Support: Beyond the practical benefits, our consistent support offered these prisoners a lifeline. Items like homemade food gave them a sense of comfort, reminding them that there is a global community standing with them, committed to their well-being and their cause.

Every donation plays a direct role in ensuring these prisoners continue to survive in such harsh conditions. However, the need remains critical, and continuous support is necessary to maintain this vital lifeline. Through "Hope Behind Bars," we are not just sending food and supplies—we are sending hope. Together, we can continue to fight for the dignity and rights of political prisoners in Myanmar, showing them and the world that change is possible, even in the darkest of times.