How to get involved
Write to an imprisoned writer
Send a message of hope through PENWrites, our international letter-writing campaign for writers who are persecuted, harassed, and imprisoned for exercising their right to freedom of expression.
Featured Writer: Amanuel Asrat
This year marks 25 years since poet, critic, and editor Amanuel Asrat was arrested in Eritrea, during a brutal media crackdown. He has been held incommunicado, without charge or trial, ever since. Amanuel is among the 12 Eritrean writers we are highlighting through the Proof of Life campaign together with PEN International and our sibling centres. Please take a moment to sign the petition and to send a message of support to Amanuel's family.
Become a member
English PEN is one of the world's oldest human rights organisations. With the support of our members – a community of writers, readers and activists – we protect freedom of expression whenever it is under attack and celebrate contemporary international writing with prizes, grants and events.
Become a member today