‘We are trapped in a living nightmare’: Life as a Prisoner of Conscience During War and Conflict

In regions gripped by conflict and unrest, the brave men and women who stand up for human rights and freedom of expression often pay an unimaginable price.

They must endure not only war and conflict, but also targeted attacks because of their stand against injustice. This story is just one among many – each one a powerful testament to the sacrifices made by prisoners of conscience across the world. Through this author’s journey, we are reminder of the devastating cost of standing up for what’s right and the vital role we can play in providing support for those who defend human rights.

The author of this piece is a persecuted writer residing in a region that endures relentless assaults year after year, preferring to remain anonymous due to the circumstances surrounding the area.

In her writing, she expresses the relentless toll of the ongoing conflict and unrest, stating,

“The present strife has brought about extraordinary destruction, annihilating not only our physical structures but also the hopes and dreams we’ve cherished. The university where I aspired to fulfil my educational goals now stands as a wreckage, a haunting testament to the chaos that has engulfed our lives.” 

Her family, which includes her parents and siblings, grapples with a heart-breaking reality; their beloved family home has been reduced to rubble, leaving them uprooted and impoverished.

“Humanitarian assistance seems to elude us as we battle with food shortages and skyrocketing prices amidst this wasteland. With decreasing supplies and inflating costs, my father’s minimal earnings can barely support us for a fraction of the month. My siblings, who deserve the nourishment vital for their development, are left yearning for even the basic provisions.” 

Each day intensifies their challenges, and the stark contrast to their former lives is palpable –

“Unlike the comforting patterns of our previous life, we are now trapped in an unsettling normalcy, interrupted solely by waves of fresh pain and suffering. The days when we could easily access milk and eggs are gone, a loss we feel profoundly as we witness our siblings grow deprived of essential nutrition. Our existence is now characterized by an unending sense of inadequacy and lack. Each commodity we require—blankets, bedding, tent covers—comes with exorbitant costs, pushing our already stretched resources to their very edges and leaving us hanging on the brink of total poverty.” 

Reflecting on her past, she recalls,

“My bedroom used to be a comforting refuge, enveloping me in warmth during the harsh winters and offering respite from the oppressive summer heat.” It was a space adorned with an assortment of blankets and mattresses, providing a tranquil escape after long, exhausting days. “As I settled into my soft bed, the comforting scent of home surrounded me, easing me into a peaceful sleep.” 

However, these memories of comfort have become mere shadows in light of the realities of their current existence; they have been stripped of their comforts, relying on nothing more than the fragile fabric of their tent to shield them from danger.

“No longer do I find rest on a cushioned mattress; instead, I sleep on the unforgiving cold, damp ground, my body aching with each movement, deprived of the restorative slumber it longs for.” 

The blankets that once offered warmth are gone;

“now, I shiver through the bitter winter nights, the ice-cold air penetrating my bones until my limbs feel nearly numb.”

Despite facing these overwhelming challenges, this author was able to reach out to Prisoners of Conscience for support and assistance in navigating life after their displacement.

“I wish to convey my sincere thanks to PoC for their kindness and assistance. They provided me with a monetary grant that greatly eased our burdens, allowing us to access food and make living amidst soaring costs.” 

“Our circumstances are dire; we are trapped in a living nightmare. The funds you provide have been invaluable; I can hardly find the words to express my profound appreciation.”

There is still a long journey ahead for this author and her family. They must try to rebuild their lives in the midst of relentless conflict. While the financial support we provide can help them secure essential supplies and temporary accommodation, these basic needs are only part of a much larger struggle.

Her story, like those of countless others, highlights the urgent need to raise awareness about the plight of prisoners of conscience. By continuing to share their experiences, we aim to bring attention to the daily dangers they face and the harsh realities imposed upon them. We hope that spreading these powerful narratives will inspire greater solidarity and support that extends beyond survival – providing these families with a chance to find safety, stability and a renewed hope for the future.