PEN International Writers in Prison Committee — Annual Meeting Summary

On 19–20 May 2025, the Writers in Prison Committee held its Annual Online Meeting, "Deafening Silence: Hearing Endangered Voices," bringing together 99 participants — PEN International's board, representatives from 48 centres, the Secretariat, and invited guests — to discuss ongoing cases of persecuted writers, strengthen advocacy, and plan the year ahead.

The meeting opened each day with an Empty Chair: first for 26 Ukrainian journalists held by Russian forces, then for imprisoned Egyptian poet Galal El-Behairy. A thematic panel featured three recently released imprisoned writers — from the Philippines, Caracas, and Sudan — reflecting on the realities of persecution and the power of international solidarity. Sessions also covered the launch of the PEN International Case List 2026, a briefing on the new Campaigning Handbook and upcoming advocacy training, regional risk overviews from the five heads of region, and a review of how past Congress resolutions have been implemented.

The full notes below, from Chair Ma Thida, capture the discussions, priorities, and next steps agreed across the network.