Political prisoners are treated differently depending on a country's laws and practices. In authoritarian regimes, they may face harsh conditions, including solitary confinement, inadequate healthcare, and limited contact with loved ones. Conversely, democracies generally offer protections, although cases of political persecution can still occur. The treatment of political prisoners often sparks international condemnation and can lead to sanctions or calls for reforms, highlighting the global human rights discourse's influence on national policies.