1. When writing always be polite. Introduce yourself and explain why you have decided to support a prisoner. Don't judge them because they have already been judged far more harshly than any western prison might judge them.
2. Always write your letters on the basis that the prison authorities will read your letter. You don't want to write anything that will cause problems for the prisoner. Offer positive support and avoid being negative. Their lives are filled with daily horrors you could never imagine if you have not walked in their shoes.
3. Show respect for the country's constitution and judicial procedures, and to demonstrate an understanding of current difficulties. This will give more scope to point out ways in which the human rights situation can be improved.
4. If you wish to write an appeal or sign onto a petition to help the prisoner, be clear in what you are requesting. You should never make 'demands' on the Government. Remember that everything you do and say can affect the prisoner. So be cautious.
5. Never use political jargon. Don't give the impression that you are writing because you are ideologically or politically opposed to the government in question. It is far more effective to stress the fact that your concern for human rights is not politically based in any way, but in keeping with basic principles of international law.
6. If you have any special interest or link with the country, it is a good idea to mention this in your letter. For instance, you may have visited it or studied its history.
7. Describe the level of support you are willing to provide the prisoner and if you might visit them at some time in the future.
UK Prisoner Michael Connell repatriated: Read here