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The Poetry of Freedom:
Honouring Federico García Lorca
29 July 2026 | 16:00 | Online
Federico García Lorca was killed ninety years ago at the start of the Spanish Civil War, silenced by the very forces his work still speaks against. Join us on 29 July for The Poetry of Freedom: Honouring Federico García Lorca, an online event featuring live and recorded readings and reflections from acclaimed writers and artists.
Together, we'll honour a poet whose words were silenced too soon, yet whose spirit endures in defiance of oppression and in defence of free expression.
IMAGINE
PEN International has launched its Imagine Appeal, calling on people around the world to support its work defending writers, journalists and others persecuted for their words.
Donations will fund PEN International's global programmes and campaigns — helping ensure every person's right to be heard.
25 Years Disappeared:
Proof of Life Now
18 September 2026 will mark 25 years since 12 Eritrean writers and journalists were arrested for peacefully expressing their views and calling for reform. They have not been seen since. For a quarter of a century, the Eritrean authorities have held them incommunicado—without charge, trial, or contact with their families.
Join PEN International and PEN Centres in demanding proof of life—now.
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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.
Become a Friend of PEN International today and help us continue our vital work to defend free expression and promote literature worldwide.
About us
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.