WRITE FOR RIGHTS: WRITING LETTERS CHANGES LIVES
When just a handful of people unite behind someone, the results can be amazing.
Twenty-five years ago, a small group of activists in Poland ran a 24-hour letter-writing marathon to support individuals at risk of human rights violations. What started as a small event has since evolved into the world’s largest human rights campaign: Write for Rights.
Since 2001, Write for Rights has shown that ordinary people can challenge injustice through collective action. Millions have written letters, signed petitions and sent messages of hope to people whose rights have been denied. Together, those actions have helped to free prisoners of conscience, reunite families, change unjust laws and remind countless people that they are not alone.
Today, human rights education is an important part of the campaign. Through Write for Rights, people learn about human rights and the individuals at risk, and are invited to take action if they wish. In 2025, 415,601 people took part in human rights education activities like this one.
Participatory learning: more than just a lesson plan
The activities are all based on participatory learning methods in which learners are not merely presented with information – they explore, discuss, analyse and question issues relating to the stories in each activity. This methodology allows participants to:
- Develop key competencies and skills
- Form their own opinions, raise questions, and gain a deeper understanding of the issues presented
- Take control of their learning, and shape discussions according to their interests, abilities and concerns
- Have the space required for them to engage emotionally and reflect on their attitudes.