Press Release, 20.02.2026

Photo: A postcard from the series “Freedom Is Within Us” by artist and former political prisoner Sasha Skochilenko

In accordance with established tradition, Yabloko’s actions of writing letters to political prisoners at the end of February and the beginning of March across the country will be dedicated to women political prisoners. Women – journalists, artists, human rights defenders, and activists, mothers, daughters, sisters, wives, and friends, strong and courageous, they are no less in need of support and letters from the outside world than their male counterparts.

As of 13 February, human rights defenders recorded 1,378 political prisoners in Russia, at least 20% of whom are women. Their situation is not entirely the same as that of male political prisoners, although all political prisoners share a common injustice: unlawful isolation from their families and loved ones. A woman in prison always represents a story of double isolation and particular vulnerability. Within the Russian penitentiary system, women face not only deprivation of liberty but also immense psychological pressure: prison life, with its absence of privacy and rigid daily routine, affects women’s dignity and health in an especially painful way. The severing of social bonds — particularly with children — frequently gives rise to emotional and mental health difficulties.

It is with this in mind that, ahead of 8 March — the day of women’s solidarity and the struggle for women’s rights — Yabloko invites all those who wish to take part in the actions of writing letters to political prisoners. This year, artist Sasha Skochilenko, a former political prisoner, has joined the effort, creating a series of postcards in support of women prisoners of conscience especially for the Yabloko campaign.

We wish to emphasise that writing to political prisoners is lawful and safe.

Those unable to come to Yabloko offices, can send letters to political prisoners independently using our instructions.

The actions will be held in Yabloko’s regional branches all over Russia from 22 February through to 7 March. The list of the regional branches, addresses and dates are published here and will be updated.