McCain Institute
Freedom for Political Prisoners Initiative
Freedom for Political Prisoners Initiative
Learn more about your impact
There are an estimated one million people around the world wrongfully detained by repressive regimes as political prisoners, including dozens of American citizens. These individuals include pro-democracy activists, human rights defenders, political opposition leaders, journalists, artists, hostages and others who are held captive because of their commitment to the principles of democracy and individual freedom.
Inspired by Senator John McCain, a vocal and passionate advocate for those wrongfully held for fighting against tyranny, and his experience as a prisoner of war for over five years, the John McCain Freedom for Political Prisoners Initiative provides critical support to individual prisoners and their families.
I fell in love with my country when I was a prisoner in someone else’s. I loved it not just for the many comforts of life here. I loved it for its decency; for its faith in the wisdom, justice and goodness of its people. I loved it because it was not just a place, but an idea — a cause worth fighting for."
Impact of donor support
This fund supports political prisoners and their families by doing the following:
- Provide vital support to Americans and green card holders who are held overseas as political prisoners or hostages, as well as dissidents, political prisoners and hostages from other nations who are held around the world by repressive regimes.
- Promote concrete policy recommendations based on the specific cases of individual prisoners and their families, as well as larger lessons learned.
- Raise awareness of and keep attention on the plight of political prisoners with key decision-makers, constituencies, and the general public.
- Advocacy at the highest level of the U.S. government, United Nations and policymaking fora to help move the needle for individual cases and for governments and agencies to take action.
