Imagine being unable to read the news in the morning. Or being unable to walk outside without being forced to wear a head covering. Imagine being forced to flee from your home, career and family all because you stood up against injustice.

For people like Aziz, there is no need to imagine. As a gay man from Afghanistan, Aziz is not allowed to love who he chooses. The Taliban murdered his partner a few years ago - all because of their secret relationship - and Aziz must live in hiding to avoid the same fate. He must hide his identity, or risk death to stand up for his rights and identity.

Here at Prisoners of Conscience, we believe that no-one should suffer for standing up for what they believe in and who they are. Which is why we are hoping to #UnlockFreedom this April and raise money to support those who risk their lives to protect our basic rights and freedoms.

Our wonderful supporters will be taking on personal challenges to stand in solidarity with people like Aziz, and the countless others who desperately need our support. This could be taking on the 24-hour silence challenge to raise awareness of freedom of speech violations, or reading 5 books in a month by female authors to bring attention to the regression of women's rights globally.

You can read all about #UnlockFreedom (and sign up for your fundraising pack if you'd like to get involved) here. Make over £100 in donations (or get 3 friends to commit too) and we'll send you a free t-shirt or tote bag!

All you have to do is choose your challenge, commit to it in April, and share your experience with your friends and family.

It is because of you that defenders like Aziz are able to survive and thrive after persecution. Together we'll support those who give so much for our basic human rights and freedoms.

#UnlockFreedom