About the event
Join us at the Weston Library for the opening ceremony of 'Writers in a World at War': PEN International's 90th Annual Congress.
Palestinian author Adania Shibli will deliver the keynote address, held in partnership with English PEN, reflecting on 'the principle of unhampered transmission of thought'.
Guests will also hear from Margaret Busby, President of English PEN, and Burhan Sonmez, President of PEN International.
Writers in a World at War
The theme of PEN International’s 90th Annual Congress is ‘Writers in a World at War’. Through meetings and events from 24 – 27 September, PEN delegates from over 90 countries across five continents will discuss key questions against the backdrop of current global crises. These include the importance of the PEN Charter, 'promoting the value of literature', and the future of PEN’s principles and solidarity mission for generations to come.
About PEN International
PEN International is the foremost and largest association of writers which stands at the intersection of literature and human rights to protect free expression around the world. Founded in London in 1921, PEN International – PEN’s Secretariat – connects an international community of writers. PEN operates across five continents through over 130 Centres in over 90 countries. It is a forum where writers meet freely to discuss their work; it is also a voice speaking out for writers silenced in their own countries.
PEN International works to promote the PEN Charter to ensure that people everywhere have the freedom to create literature, to impart information and ideas, to express their views, and to access the views, ideas, and literatures of others. We champion the freedom to write, recognising the power of literature to transform the world.
About English PEN
English PEN is one of the world's oldest human rights organisations and the founding centre of PEN International, a worldwide writers’ association with 130 centres in more than 90 countries. The charity works to promote literature and to defend freedom of expression in the UK and internationally.
Registration information
This event takes place in person at the Weston Library, and you must register to attend. Registration is via Eventbrite.
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Location
Blackwell Hall, Weston Library, Broad Street, Oxford, OX1 3BG.
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Wheelchair access
The Weston Library is wheelchair accessible.
