What we do

Every year, hundreds of writers are imprisoned, persecuted, attacked, threatened, exiled or even murdered as a result of their work. We seek to defend and support them and their families, to pressurise governments where the right to freedom of expression is under attack, and to help bring about the necessary changes to make freedom of expression a reality around the world.

PENWrites

Take part in our international letter​-writing campaign in solidarity with writers in prison and at risk around the world. Supporting writers who are persecuted, harassed, and imprisoned for exercising their right to freedom of expression.

Featured writer: Galal El-Behairy
Send a message of hope and solidarity this month to imprisoned Egyptian poet and lyricist Galal El-Behairy, who remains imprisoned in Egypt in violation of his right to freedom of expression.

“I get so many letters from PEN members... Perhaps this is why I never feel helpless.”

Zehra Doğan, Writer in Residence

Writers in Residence

Our residency programme is an extension of our long-standing work in support of writers around the world. We aim to support international writers facing persecution by providing them with the time, safety and funds to relax and work on their own projects.