PEN International Review

About PEN International

PEN International: Promoting Literature and Intellectual Co-operation Among Writers Worldwide

PEN International is a global association of writers that was established in London in 1921. The organization's primary objective is to promote literature and intellectual co-operation among writers worldwide. PEN stands for Poets, Essayists, and Novelists, but the organization has since expanded to include a wide range of literary genres.

The organization has over 150 centers across the world, with more than 25,000 members from various backgrounds. PEN International's mission is to defend freedom of expression and promote literature as a means of cultural exchange.

History

PEN International was founded by Catherine Amy Dawson Scott, an English writer who had witnessed the horrors of World War I. She believed that writers could play a crucial role in promoting peace and understanding among nations.

The first PEN Congress was held in London in 1923, where delegates from different countries discussed issues related to literature and freedom of expression. Since then, PEN has organized numerous congresses around the world where writers can meet and exchange ideas.

In its early years, PEN focused on defending writers who were persecuted for their political views or artistic expressions. During World War II, many European writers were forced into exile or imprisoned by totalitarian regimes. PEN played a vital role in supporting these writers by providing them with financial assistance and advocating for their release.

Activities

Today, PEN International continues to defend freedom of expression worldwide through various activities such as:

1) Advocacy: The organization campaigns against censorship laws that restrict free speech or limit access to information. It also advocates for the release of imprisoned writers who are being punished for expressing their opinions.

2) Literary events: PEN organizes literary festivals around the world where authors can showcase their work and engage with readers.

3) Translation programs: The organization promotes translation as a means of cultural exchange by funding translations between different languages.

4) Writing programs: Through its writing programs such as the Women's Manifesto Project or Writers-in-Prison Committee (WiPC), it supports emerging voices while also advocating for those whose voices have been silenced due to persecution or imprisonment.


Membership

Membership at Pen international is open to all individuals who support its objectives regardless if they are published authors or not.
There are three types:
1) Full membership - available only through local centers
2) Associate membership - available directly through Pen international
3) Honorary membership - awarded only upon invitation


Conclusion

In conclusion,PEN International plays an essential role in promoting literature worldwide while defending freedom of expression.Their advocacy efforts have helped countless authors express themselves freely without fear while also supporting those whose voices have been silenced due to persecution.Pen international remains committed towards creating an environment where every writer can thrive regardless if they come from marginalized communities.Pen international will continue playing this critical role globally ensuring that every voice counts!