There are over 2,100 political prisoners in Burma. They have been imprisoned just for peacefully calling for democracy and freedom in Burma. Once in prison, democracy activists face horrific torture, including electric shocks, rape, iron rods rubbed on their shins until the flesh rubs off, severe beatings and solitary confinement. Many prisoners are kept in their cells 24 hours a day, given inadequate food and are in poor health. However, the regime appears to be systematically denying medical treatment to political prisoners.

Burma's democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi has said, “the release of political prisoners is the most important thing for all those who truly wish to bring about change in Burma".

The United Nations Security Council has called for political prisoners to be released but must do more to make sure this happens. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon will visit Burma in December. He must make the release of all Burma’s political prisoners his top priority during his visit.

Take action now to help free political prisoners in Burma.