HOW TO WRITE AN EFFECTIVE APPEAL LETTER

BASIC TIPS FOR WRITING APPEALS TO GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS

1. Be factual. Refer to the details of the case. Human rights are based on international laws, agreements
and obligations.
2. Be brief . Stay concise to keep the attention of the reader. One page is enough to convey your message.

3. Be polite. This rule is essential and invariable. Governments do not respond to abusive letters.

4. Show respect. When possible, express respect for a country’s constitution and judicial procedures and
convey an understanding of any current difficulties.

5. Be explicit in expressing your concern for the victim. Repeat the victim’s name throughout the letter to
ensure that the official will recognize the name and remember the letters sent on the victim’s behalf.

6. Write clearly AND in English.

7. Be constructive. Try not to focus solely on what the country is doing wrong, and instead offer ways the
country can support international standards of human rights.

8. Be efficient. Do whatever is necessary to make your letter-writing as quick and easy as possible.

9. Salutations and Closings. There is no standard international code for addressing authorities.
In general, you may safely use the following salutations:
Your Majesty – to Kings, Queens, and other monarchs
Your Excellency – to all heads of state, cabinet level ministers, ambassadors and governors
Your Honor – for judges and procurators
Dear Sir/Madam – for local authorities, prison commanders, police chiefs
Dear Admiral, General, Captain, etc – for military officials

Close your letter formally by using:

(Yours) Respectfully, / (Yours) Sincerely, / Yours truly,
10. Referring to Amnesty International. Amnesty International’s name may be used. If you do refer to
Amnesty International, it may be useful to include a brief explanation of AI’s aims and principles. .