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A Guide to Defending Writers at Risk: A guide to defending writers at risk
PEN International proudly shares A Guide to Defending Writers at Risk - now available in English, French, Spanish and German.
This handbook serves as an essential resource for anyone involved in advocacy, campaigning, and media strategy, offering a structured and practical approach to creating lasting impact in the fight for human rights.
Demand the release of Ukrainian journalists in Russian captivity: World Press Freedom Day 2026
At least 26 Ukrainian journalists are currently being detained by the Russian authorities in conditions that amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity.
As the Russian Federation’s war against Ukraine rages on, the international community must step up efforts to secure the immediate and unconditional release of all detained Ukrainian journalists and hold perpetrators to account.
Writers Under Siege: Defying Silence - PEN International Case List 2026
On World Book Day, PEN International launches Writers Under Siege: Defying Silence – PEN International Case List 2026, documenting a troubling global pattern: space for expression, culture and dissent is shrinking as governments intensify efforts to silence critical expression and target writers for their work.
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Freedom of expression is deteriorating worldwide giving way to a rise in hate speech and oppressive legislation which threatens the lives and wellbeing of all kinds of writers, inc. poets, novelists, and journalists, as well as publishers. Meanwhile, writers, particularly women and those from marginalised communities, still need equal access and representation within the literary and civic spaces.
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We believe in everyone’s freedom to write and read, wherever they are in the world. Founded in 1921, today PEN International is recognised as the world’s foremost association of writers, as well as a leading international charity and expert on freedom of expression.